A Whiff of Italy
The ultimate Herbed Gnocchi with Creamy Tomato Sauce and Every time I step into my kitchen, the aroma of fresh herbs fills the air, and I am reminded of my childhood in Italy. My grandmother used to make herbed gnocchi every Sunday. She would gather us all around the kitchen, and we would help her roll out the soft potato dough. The laughter and chatter were just as important as the cooking. Those memories inspired me to create my own version of this dish, bringing a little bit of my past into my present.
The Perfect Sauce
As I prepared the creamy tomato sauce, I could almost hear my grandmother’s voice guiding me. I heated olive oil and added chopped onions and garlic. The smell was heavenly! Then, I poured in the San Marzano tomatoes and added my secret blend of herbs. I let the sauce simmer and thicken, filling my kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. This step always reminds me that cooking is not just about food; it’s about love and memories shared over the table.
Gnocchi Magic
Cooking the gnocchi is like a dance for me. I watched as the little pillows floated to the top of the boiling water, signaling they were ready. I carefully tossed them into the creamy sauce, coating each piece in the rich flavors. The soft gnocchi blended beautifully with the sauce, making it look like a gourmet dish. Adding fresh mozzarella on top made it even more special. I couldn’t wait to share this delicious creation with my family.
A Table Full of Love
Finally, I set the table, placing the steaming herbed gnocchi in the center. The vibrant colors and inviting smell made my heart swell with joy. As we gathered around, my family dug in, and their faces lit up with delight. Every bite was filled with the flavors of love, laughter, and memories. I realized that this dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of family and tradition. I knew my grandmother would be proud, and I was grateful to carry on her legacy through this simple yet flavorful dish.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Herbed Gnocchi with Creamy Tomato Sauce
- When infusing the olive oil, keep a close eye on the herbs to prevent them from burning. Burnt herbs can impart a bitter taste to the oil.
- Cook the onions on medium-low heat to enhance their sweetness and avoid browning. If you find the garlic starts to brown, lower the heat immediately.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender after simmering to achieve your desired consistency.
- For an ultra-creamy texture, consider adding mascarpone cheese or cream cheese to the sauce at the end. This will make it even richer.
- Broiling is essential for a crispy top. Keep a close watch on the dish while it’s under the broiler, as cooking times can vary and it can burn quickly.
- Serve the dish hot, and consider pairing it with garlic bread or a fresh arugula salad to balance the richness of the sauce.
Herbed Gnocchi with Creamy Tomato Sauce
4
servings10
minutes30
minutes229
kcal40
minutesDive into the delightful world of Italian cuisine with our Herbed Gnocchi in a luscious creamy tomato sauce. Bursting with fresh herbs and rich flavors, this dish transforms simple potato pillows into a gourmet sensation that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises a satisfying and comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering creation that embodies the essence of homemade goodness!
Ingredients
- Herb-Infused Olive Oil
1/4 cup premium extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
4 sprigs of Italian flatleaf parsley
4 sprigs of fresh oregano
2 sprigs of fragrant rosemary
4 sprigs of basil reserving 2 for garnish
- Vegetable Base
1/2 medium yellow onion finely chopped
3 cloves garlic minced or pressed
- Tomato Sauce
1 can high-quality San Marzano tomatoes with juice
Kosher salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper to taste
red pepper flakes for a hint of heat
1/4 cup heavy cream optional for added richness
- Gnocchi and Toppings
1 package potato gnocchi (16 ounces)
8 ounces cherry-sized mozzarella balls halved
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Infusing Herbs: Begin by heating ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil in a 10-inch high-sided sauté pan over medium heat. Add parsley, oregano, rosemary, and 2 sprigs of basil to the oil, allowing the herbs to gently sizzle and become crisp, which should take about 5 minutes. *Tip:* Be cautious to prevent the herbs from burning. Once infused, remove and discard the herbs to leave a flavorful oil behind.
- Building the Sauce Base: Lower the heat and introduce the diced yellow onion and minced garlic to the herb-infused oil. Sauté until the onions turn translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes, ensuring they soften without browning. *Optional:* For a sweeter sauce, add a teaspoon of sugar during this step to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Cooking the Gnocchi: While the sauce simmers, bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, indicating they are done, typically 2-3 minutes. Drain the gnocchi thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
- Creating the Tomato Sauce: Crush the San Marzano tomatoes by hand or with a masher, then pour them into the pan along with their juices. Season with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes until it thickens and the flavors meld together. Educational Tip: Simmering allows the sauce to reduce, intensifying the tomato flavor and creating a richer texture.
- Serving: Garnish with the reserved basil leaves for a fresh and vibrant finish. Serve the dish immediately while hot and bubbly. *Serving Suggestion:* Pair with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.
Equipment
- sauté pan
- saucepan
- Baking sheet
- broiler
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 229kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 29mg
- Sodium: 207mg
- Potassium: 450mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Vitamin A: 1500IU
- Vitamin C: 20mg
- Calcium: 165mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQ-Herbed Gnocchi with Creamy Tomato Sauce
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cook the gnocchi fresh when you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for gnocchi?
You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
While you can freeze the sauce, it’s best to avoid freezing the gnocchi as they may become mushy upon thawing. Freeze the sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, use vegan cheese for the mozzarella and Parmesan, and ensure the gnocchi are vegan.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can enhance both the flavor and nutrition. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic.
