Go Back
+ servings
a plate of ricotta gnocchi with pesto

Ricotta Gnocchi with Arugula Pesto and Pancetta

A different take on an old favorite. Ricotta gnocchi is perfect for your Sunday dinner. Lemony arugula and pancetta are the perfect toppings.
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin
Course: Main dish
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: gnocchi made from ricotta, homemade gnocchi, homemade pesto
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 387kcal
Author: Analida Braeger

Ingredients

Gnocchi

Arugula Pesto

  • 5 oz arugula chopped
  • 4 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp lemon fresh squeezed juice
  • ¼ tsp pepper ground
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • ¼ tsp Kosher salt
  • 1 dash cinnamon
  • 4 Tbsp pancetta

Instructions

  • Prepare the gnocchi:
  • In a large bowl place the ricotta and using a spatula mix well to break it up a bit. Next, slowly add the Parmesan cheese and stir well to combine.
  • Add in the sifted flour in small increments (¼ cup at a time) to ensure that the mixture is even.
  • Finally add in the pepper, salt, nutmeg, parsley, and lemon zest. Mix well and form the dough into a ball.
  • Next, place the dough on a floured surface and divide it into 4 pieces.
  • working with one ball at a time, roll it out into a rope that measures about 12" x ½"
  • Cut gnocchi into 1" pieces with a sharp knife, and place on a floured baking sheet.
  • Using the back of a fork, press down on each individual gnocchi. This step is optional.
  • Place tray in the freezer, for about 30 minutes, or until the gnocchi are completely frozen.
  • Boil water in a pasta pot.
  • While the water is boiling start making the sauce.
  • Place arugula, olive oil, lemon juice, pepper, garlic, salt, and cinnamon in a food processor, and blend on high until you have a thick paste. If the sauce seems too thick add another tablespoon of olive oil. Set aside.
  • Cook the gnocchi a few at a time until they float (this indicates that they are ready).
  • Cook the pancetta in a skillet until slightly brown, and transfer to a small plate to drain atop a paper towel.
  • Finally, pour sauce over gnocchi and top with pancetta.

Nutrition

Calories: 387kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 53mg | Sodium: 759mg | Potassium: 230mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1045IU | Vitamin C: 6.8mg | Calcium: 313mg | Iron: 1.9mg