Gnocchi and Wilted Spinach Salad

So this isn't the lightest salad to start off the New Year. I admit it! BUT it IS the salad that will have everyone asking for seconds and thirds. A double helping of greens, people, doesn't that count for something?

• Ready In: 25 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1  lb  packaged  gnocchi
• 5 -6  ounces  baby spinach leaves
• 4  slices  thick cut bacon, chopped
• 2  shallots, thinly sliced
• 3⁄4 cup walnut pieces
• 1  lemon, juice of
• 1⁄4 nutmeg
• 1  teaspoon nutmeg
• 2  tablespoons honey
• 1⁄2 cup dried cherries (optional)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon and sizzle until red and crispy.
3. Add the shallots to the bacon and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Then add the walnuts and nutmeg.
4. Meanwhile drop the gnocchi into the boiling water. Cook until all the gnocchi are floating~3-4 minutes. Once the gnocchi is ready, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to the skillet.
5. Add the cherries and stir. Finally add the lemon juice, honey and 2-3 Tb. of pasta water. Salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the spinach in a large bowl. Pour the hot gnocchi mixture over the spinach and toss. Serve immediately!
7. Makes 4 dinner portions, or 8 first-course portions.