Ingredients

1 lb gnocchi ( refrigerated or frozen )
1/2 lb asparagus , cut in 1/2-inch pieces on an angle ( approximately 2 cups , green beans or peas make a great substitute )
1 medium onion , cut in half and thin sliced ( use less onion if you want )
1/2 - 3/4 cup black olives , cut in half ( buy a can of pre cut olives and save yourself some time )
1/2 lemon , zest of , use the other half thin sliced as a garnish if you want
salt ( go easy with the salt as the pesto and olives are both salty )
pepper
1 cup pesto sauce ( I used a basil pesto )
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
1 1/2 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Gnocchi With Asparagus & Olives in a Creamy Pesto Sauce is a classic Italian dish that combines tender gnocchi with a creamy, flavorful pesto sauce and a variety of veggies. The asparagus provides a nice crunch to the dish, while the olives add a tangy, salty flavor. The sauce is the star of the show - it is rich and creamy, complementing every bite of gnocchi. The dish is finished off with a deliciously crispy breadcrumb and ricotta cheese topping, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2.Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3.In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4.Add the asparagus and cook for another 5 minutes, until tender.
5.Stir in the pesto sauce and heavy cream, then add the gnocchi and olives. Mix well.
6.Transfer the mixture to a large baking dish.
7.In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the mixture over the top of the gnocchi mixture.
8.Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
9.Garnish with lemon zest and thinly sliced lemon, if desired.
10.Serve and enjoy!

PROS

The creamy pesto sauce in this dish is delicious and flavorful.

The asparagus and olives add a nice texture and flavor to the dish.

CONS

This dish is relatively high in calories and fat.

It is not recommended for individuals with high cholesterol or heart problems to consume this dish in large amounts.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Asparagus is a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Olives are rich in antioxidants and healthy fats.
Ricotta cheese is a good source of calcium and protein.
However, the heavy cream and breadcrumbs in this dish add a significant amount of calories and fat.

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