Oh, the blissful union of gnocchi, shrimp, and asparagus! It’s like a cozy gathering of flavors that somehow feels both indulgent and light. Imagine tender pillows of gnocchi mingling with juicy shrimp and crisp asparagus, all embraced by the aromatic hug of pesto. It’s like spring on a plate—even in the middle of winter.
Steps
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the asparagus for about 3 minutes. Add the shrimp, season with salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper, and continue to sauté until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.
- In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the gnocchi to a large bowl.
- Combine the cooked asparagus, shrimp, and pesto with the gnocchi in the bowl. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated with the pesto.
- Optionally, garnish with parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts. Serve the dish immediately while hot.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 (16-ounce) package vacuum-packed gnocchi
- 1/4 cup pesto, either homemade or store-bought
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts
FAQ
- Can I use frozen shrimp and asparagus for this recipe?
- Yes, frozen asparagus and pre-cooked shrimp can be used in place of fresh ingredients. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
- What type of pesto should I use?
- You can use either homemade or store-bought pesto. If opting for store-bought, choose a high-quality brand to enhance the dish’s flavor.
- What can I use as a seasoning alternative to black pepper?
- Instead of freshly ground black pepper, you can use blackening seasoning, smoked paprika, or any favorite spices to add a different flavor profile to the shrimp.
- How do I know when the gnocchi is cooked?
- The gnocchi is done cooking when it rises to the surface of the boiling water, which typically takes 3-4 minutes.
- Can I add other garnishes to the dish?
- Yes, feel free to add garnishes like parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Tips
- For extra flavor, consider seasoning the shrimp with blackening seasoning or smoked paprika instead of just black pepper. This can add a spicy kick that complements the pesto nicely.
- If you’re short on time or fresh ingredients, using frozen asparagus or pre-cooked shrimp can be a convenient alternative without sacrificing much on taste.
- Ensure the water for the gnocchi is generously salted before boiling. This enhances the flavor of the gnocchi as it cooks.
- When using store-bought pesto, opt for a high-quality brand to ensure the dish remains flavorful and vibrant.
Equipment
- Skillet – A good-quality skillet for sautéing.
- Large Pot – A large pot for boiling gnocchi.
- Slotted Spoon – Useful for removing the gnocchi from the boiling water.
