Spinach Feta Gnocchi Recipe Easy Healthy 30-Minute Dinner

Picture this: tender, pillowy gnocchi tossed with vibrant spinach, creamy feta, and just the right amount of garlic. It’s the kind of weeknight dish that feels fancy but comes together in no time. Spinach feta gnocchi is my go-to when I want something hearty, healthy, and fast—without sacrificing flavor. Trust me, this recipe has everything you need for a satisfying dinner that won’t leave you stuck in the kitchen for hours.

Honestly, I stumbled upon this recipe during one of those “what’s in the fridge?” moments. I had a bag of gnocchi, some wilting spinach, and a block of feta begging to be used. A little sautéing, some seasoning magic, and voilà—a dinner hit was born. The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. You’ll love how simple yet impressive this dish is, and I bet it’ll become a staple in your dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights or last-minute cravings.
• Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce—no fancy shopping trips required.
• Healthy Comfort Food: It’s packed with spinach for a dose of greens, while feta adds creamy richness without being heavy.
• Versatile: Works as a standalone meal or a side dish for larger gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of flavors is universally loved—kids, adults, and even picky eaters rave about it.
• Perfectly Balanced: The saltiness of feta, the earthiness of spinach, and the soft texture of gnocchi create a harmonious bite every time.

What makes this spinach feta gnocchi stand out is how the ingredients come together to create a dish that’s comforting yet fresh. The gnocchi is lightly pan-seared for a golden crust, the spinach wilts beautifully in garlic-infused oil, and the feta melts just enough to coat everything in creamy goodness. It’s not just dinner—it’s a little moment of joy in every bite.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This spinach feta gnocchi recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor without the fuss. Most of these are likely already in your kitchen!

• Gnocchi: Use store-bought potato gnocchi for convenience or homemade if you’re feeling ambitious.
• Spinach: Fresh baby spinach works best, but regular spinach is fine if chopped (frozen works in a pinch, just thaw and squeeze out excess water).
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and a tangy kick. Opt for block feta for the best flavor.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil for sautéing and enhancing the dish’s Mediterranean flavors.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves, minced—because garlic makes everything better.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a subtle heat that complements the creamy feta.
• Salt & Pepper: Adjust to taste, but go easy on the salt since feta is naturally salty.

If you want to mix it up, you can add a few extras like sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, or even grilled chicken for added protein. This recipe is super flexible, so feel free to experiment!

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make spinach feta gnocchi:

• Large Skillet: A non-stick or stainless steel skillet works best for pan-searing gnocchi and sautéing spinach.
• Cooking Spoon: For stirring and tossing the ingredients evenly.
• Knife & Cutting Board: Essential for chopping garlic and prepping any optional add-ins.
• Colander: To drain the gnocchi after boiling.
• Tongs: Handy for tossing spinach without damaging the leaves.

If you don’t have a skillet, a wide saucepan will work in a pinch. Just make sure it’s big enough to hold everything without overcrowding.

Preparation Method

1. Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add gnocchi and cook according to package instructions (usually 2-3 minutes). Once they float to the surface, they’re done. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Add the Spinach: Toss the spinach into the skillet and cook until wilted, stirring frequently, about 2-3 minutes. If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s thoroughly thawed and drained before adding.
4. Pan-Sear the Gnocchi: Push the spinach to one side of the skillet. Add another drizzle of olive oil and the cooked gnocchi. Let them sear for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.
5. Add Feta & Seasoning: Sprinkle crumbled feta evenly over the gnocchi and spinach. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together gently to combine.
6. Serve Hot: Remove from heat and serve immediately while the feta is creamy and melty.

Pro tip: If the gnocchi sticks to the skillet, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. This also creates a little sauce that ties the dish together beautifully.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: They only need a few minutes to cook—any longer and they’ll turn mushy.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Pre-minced garlic from a jar won’t give you the same bold flavor as freshly minced cloves.
• Pan-Sear for Texture: Searing the gnocchi adds a golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy feta.
• Season Gradually: Feta is salty, so taste as you go before adding extra salt.
• Keep It Hot: Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. The dish loses its magic if left sitting too long.

If you want to keep things extra smooth, you can warm the feta slightly before tossing it in—it melts just enough to coat everything like a dream.

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free gnocchi for a celiac-friendly version.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
• Seasonal Twist: Swap spinach for kale or arugula, or add roasted squash in the fall.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free feta or nutritional yeast for a similar flavor profile.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for added color and nutrients.

One variation I love is adding sun-dried tomatoes—they bring a pop of tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the feta.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This spinach feta gnocchi is best served hot and fresh, but here are some tips for leftovers and pairings:

• Serving Temperature: Serve immediately while the gnocchi is warm and the feta is creamy.
• Pairings: Enjoy with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A crisp white wine pairs beautifully!
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the creaminess.

Note: The flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, so leftovers can be surprisingly delicious!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional highlights per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 350-400
• Protein: 10-12g (thanks to the feta and spinach!)
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Healthy Fats: From olive oil and feta

Spinach brings a boost of vitamins A, C, and K, plus iron and calcium. Feta adds protein and a touch of indulgence without being heavy. And gnocchi provides comforting carbs to keep you satisfied.

Conclusion

Spinach feta gnocchi is the kind of recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl—warm, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s fast, easy, and versatile, making it perfect for busy nights or even special occasions. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, this dish is sure to impress.

Give it a try and let me know how you customize it! Do you add extra veggies, swap spinach for kale, or toss in some roasted garlic? I’d love to hear your spin on this recipe. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious results!

Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of this irresistible spinach feta gnocchi!

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes! Thaw the spinach and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the skillet.

What type of gnocchi works best?

Potato gnocchi is the classic choice, but gluten-free or cauliflower gnocchi also work well.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely. Substitute feta with a dairy-free alternative or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

How do I prevent gnocchi from sticking to the skillet?

Use enough olive oil and avoid overcrowding the pan. A splash of water or broth can help loosen stuck gnocchi.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat with a little liquid to restore creaminess.

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