why make this recipe
Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi with Melting Mozzarella Pearls is not just a meal; it’s an experience! This dish combines the tender texture of gnocchi with a rich and creamy sauce that makes every bite delightful. You get the savory flavor from sun-dried tomatoes, a hint of garlic, and the freshness from spinach, all tied together with gooey mozzarella pearls. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or when you simply want to treat yourself. Plus, it comes together in just about half an hour, making it a great choice for busy evenings.
how to make Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi with Melting Mozzarella Pearls
Ingredients:
- 500 g potato gnocchi
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls
Directions:
Prepare the Gnccoci: Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the potato gnocchi. Sauté the gnocchi for about 3–4 minutes. You want them to be lightly golden on the outside. This step adds a nice texture to the gnocchi. When they are done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet where you cooked the gnocchi, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Now, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir in the tomato paste, mixing everything together. This combination will give the sauce a rich and deep flavor.
Season the Mixture: Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the tomato and garlic mixture. Stir briefly to combine all the flavors.
Create the Sauce: Pour in the vegetable broth and the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
Add Cheese and Spinach: After the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy. Then, add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook the spinach until it wilts down. This should take just a couple of minutes.
Combine Gnocchi: Return the cooked gnocchi to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to ensure the gnocchi is well-coated with the creamy sauce.
Add Mozzarella Pearls: Turn off the heat completely and fold in the fresh mozzarella pearls gently. Cover the pan for about 2 minutes. This will allow the mozzarella pearls to soften and melt slightly in the residual heat.
how to serve Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi with Melting Mozzarella Pearls
Serve your Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi hot right out of the skillet! You can plate it in individual bowls or serve it family-style in a larger dish. To enhance the flavor, consider garnishing with extra grated Parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, or even some fresh basil if you have it on hand. A slice of crusty bread on the side can also be a nice touch, as it’s perfect for soaking up the delicious creamy sauce.
how to store Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi with Melting Mozzarella Pearls
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you are ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to bring back the creamy consistency. Stir gently and make sure it heats through without sticking to the pan.
tips to make Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi with Melting Mozzarella Pearls
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your ingredients, especially the spinach and mozzarella, the better your dish will taste. Opt for high-quality olive oil too.
- Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Be cautious not to cook the gnocchi too long in the skillet. You want them golden, not hard or chewy.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute half the heavy cream with milk or use a plant-based cream to suit your dietary needs.
- Season to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and pepper based on your preference. Taste the sauce before adding more seasoning.
variation
While this recipe is delicious as is, there are several ways to modify it to suit your tastes:
- Protein Addition: Add cooked chicken or shrimp to make it a heartier meal.
- Vegetable Change: You can substitute spinach with kale, arugula, or even incorporate roasted bell peppers.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses! Feta crumbles or a sprinkle of goat cheese can add a unique twist.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a little heat, add some red pepper flakes for extra spice.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, using store-bought gnocchi is perfectly fine! In fact, it saves time. Just follow the instructions for cooking on the package for the best results.
2. How do I know when the gnocchi is done cooking?
Gnocchi is typically done when it floats to the surface of the boiling water. If you are sautéing it, look for a light golden color on the outside.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, you can look for gluten-free gnocchi, which many grocery stores now carry. Just make sure to check the ingredient list.
4. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure that the vegetable broth you choose is also vegetarian-friendly.
5. Is Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi suitable for freezing?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this dish. However, be aware that the texture of the gnocchi may change upon reheating. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi with Melting Mozzarella Pearls is a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to your dining table. With its creamy sauce, tender gnocchi, and melty mozzarella, it’s sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy making it and savor every delicious bite!
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Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi with Melting Mozzarella Pearls
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dish featuring tender gnocchi in a rich, creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh spinach, topped with melting mozzarella pearls.
Ingredients
- 500 g potato gnocchi
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the potato gnocchi and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until lightly golden.
- Remove the gnocchi from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
- Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and stir to incorporate.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan until melted, then add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Return the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss to coat in the sauce.
- Fold in the mozzarella pearls and cover for about 2 minutes to allow them to soften.
Notes
For enhanced flavor, consider garnishing with extra grated Parmesan, cracked black pepper, or fresh basil.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: gnocchi, creamy sauce, vegetarian pasta, Italian food, quick dinner