Gnocchi with Brussels Sprouts, Chicken Sausage, and Kale Pesto
Try this Gnocchi with Brussels Sprouts, Chicken Sausage and Kale Pesto recipe.
Try this Gnocchi with Brussels Sprouts, Chicken Sausage and Kale Pesto recipe.
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts toasted
- 1 pound brussels sprouts trimmed and halved
- 1 cup packed basil leaves
- 1 batch kale basil pesto (see below)
- 1 pound dry gnocchi (i used delallo mini potato gnocchi or you can use gluten-free gnocchi)
- 1 pound chicken sausage (i used a spicy italian variety)
- grated parmesan cheese for topping
- 2 cups packedâ chopped kale leaves stems removed
- Carbohydrate 13.6642163815733 g
- Cholesterol 5.50000000700806 mg
- Fat 18.414219192741 g
- Fiber 5.50462724548469 g
- Protein 10.2623800570628 g
- Saturated Fat 2.69964431381536 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -6 serving (381g)
- Sodium 561.473897646944 mg
- Sugar 8.15958913608864 g
- Trans Fat 1.21271179943295 g
- Calories 242 calories
Step-by-step
- Prepare Kale Basil Pesto according to instructions below.
- Cook the gnocchi in a large stockpot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- While the gnocchi is cooking, cook the chicken sausage in a saute pan according to package instructions. Once it has finished cooking, transfer the sausage to a separate plate and slice it on the diagonal into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same saute pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add Brussels sprouts and saute for 5-6 minutes, stirring and flipping occasionally, until it is cooked through and begins to brown. Remove from heat.
- Combine gnocchi, Brussels sprouts and Kale Basil Pesto in the stock pot, and toss until combined.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
- To Make The Kale Basil Pesto: Add kale, basil, walnuts, Parmesan, salt and garlic to a food processor, and pulse until combined.
- Drizzle in the olive oil, while still pulsing the food processor, until the pesto is smooth.
- Serve.
A Weeknight Wonder: Gnocchi with Brussels Sprouts, Chicken Sausage, and Kale Pesto
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner can feel like navigating a minefield. Between school pick-ups, after-school activities, and the never-ending to-do list, a simple, yet satisfying meal is a lifesaver. This recipe for Gnocchi with Brussels Sprouts, Chicken Sausage, and Kale Pesto has become my go-to weeknight dinner. It’s quick, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make, even on the most hectic of evenings. The vibrant green pesto adds a fresh, zesty counterpoint to the earthy Brussels sprouts and hearty gnocchi, while the chicken sausage provides a satisfying protein boost. It's the perfect balance of healthy and comforting.
The best part? Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, meaning minimal grocery runs are needed. I usually keep a supply of gnocchi, chicken sausage, and kale on hand, making this recipe a spontaneous delight. I love the versatility of this dish too. Feel free to swap out the chicken sausage for another variety, like Italian sausage or even vegetarian alternatives. If you’re not a fan of Brussels sprouts, feel free to substitute broccoli or another hearty green vegetable. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; you can tailor it to your taste preferences and whatever ingredients you have on hand.
The Kale Basil Pesto: A Flavor Explosion
The star of this show, in my opinion, is the homemade kale basil pesto. It's incredibly easy to whip up in a food processor and packs a powerful flavor punch. The combination of earthy kale, fragrant basil, crunchy walnuts, and sharp Parmesan cheese creates a rich and complex flavor profile that elevates the entire dish. Tossing the gnocchi, Brussels sprouts, and chicken sausage in this vibrant green sauce creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. The pesto also makes great leftovers - I often use it as a spread for sandwiches or a topping for pasta.
Tips and Tricks for Weeknight Success
To make this recipe even faster on a busy weeknight, I often pre-chop the Brussels sprouts and kale on the weekend. This simple step saves precious time during the week, ensuring a stress-free dinner preparation. Similarly, I’ll often make a double batch of the pesto and store it in the refrigerator for future meals. This way, I always have a flavorful and healthy sauce ready to go whenever I need it.
Another tip is to choose pre-cooked chicken sausage to further reduce cooking time. This is a life-saver on those nights when you’re short on time but still crave a delicious and healthy meal. Remember to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, ensuring the sausage is heated through before adding it to the gnocchi mixture.
Beyond the Dinner Table: A Versatile Recipe
This Gnocchi with Brussels Sprouts, Chicken Sausage, and Kale Pesto isn’t just limited to a weeknight dinner. It’s equally delightful for a casual lunch or a more elegant brunch. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a visually appealing dish, perfect for entertaining friends and family. I've even packed it for lunch on occasion, and it reheats beautifully. The pesto adds a lovely, bright flavor that perks up any leftovers.
Ultimately, this recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients and the joy of creating something delicious and nourishing, even amid the chaos of everyday life. It's a recipe that embodies the spirit of mindful cooking – a way to nourish both body and soul, without sacrificing precious time or energy.
Enjoy!
