Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is a delightful dish that combines the soft texture of gnocchi with the vibrant taste of spinach and the creamy richness of feta cheese. This meal is easy to prepare and brings together simple flavors that work perfectly. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet fancy enough for a special occasion. The contrast between the crispy gnocchi and the tender spinach makes each bite enjoyable. Plus, it is a great way to include more greens in your diet without compromising on taste.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
This recipe is special for many reasons. First, it is incredibly simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal in less than 30 minutes. Second, the flavors blend nicely together. The saltiness of feta pairs well with the slight bitterness of spinach. You can adjust the spices to your liking, adding a bit of heat with red pepper flakes if you want. Third, it’s a flexible dish. You can serve it as a side or pair it with protein for a complete meal. Lastly, it’s visually appealing. The green spinach and white feta create a beautiful contrast with the golden-brown gnocchi, making it a feast for the eyes as well.
HOW TO MAKE Crispy Gnocchi With Spinach And Feta
Making Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is straightforward. With just a few steps and simple ingredients, you can whip up this tasty dish in no time. Let’s go through the process and see what you need to get started.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To make this recipe, you will need the following equipment:
- A large pot for boiling the gnocchi
- A frying pan for cooking the gnocchi and spinach
- A slotted spoon to remove the gnocchi from the pot
- A cutting board and knife for mincing garlic
- Measuring spoons for accurate ingredient portions
- A large serving plate or bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups fresh spinach (about 120 g)
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled (about 115 g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, follow these simple steps to make Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta:
- Boil the Gnocchi:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the gnocchi to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions. Usually, they will float to the surface after about 2-3 minutes.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the gnocchi from the water. Allow them to drain in a bowl.
- Fry the Gnocchi:
- In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the cooked gnocchi to the pan.
- Cook them undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy on one side.
- Cook All Sides:
- Gently stir the gnocchi to turn them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until they are crispy on all sides.
- Add Garlic:
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the pan.
- Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Spinach:
- Add the fresh spinach to the pan and stir gently.
- Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season the Dish:
- Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you want some heat).
- Remove the pan from heat.
- Add Feta:
- Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, letting it mix with the other ingredients.
- Serve immediately on plates.
HOW TO SERVE Crispy Gnocchi With Spinach And Feta
Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta can be served in many ways. You can place it directly on a plate as a main dish, or you can use it as a side dish that complements roasted chicken or grilled fish. Some people enjoy adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top for a bright flavor, while others might like to sprinkle a bit more feta cheese before serving. This dish can also be served hot or warm, so feel free to adjust according to your preference.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Crispy Gnocchi With Spinach And Feta
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you want to reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help revitalize the dish. You can also freeze this dish if you want to save it for later. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
This crispy gnocchi dish pairs well with several other foods. Consider serving it with:
- Grilled chicken or fish for a full meal.
- A fresh garden salad on the side for extra veggies.
- Crusty bread to soak up any remaining flavors.
- A glass of white wine or sparkling water to complement the dish beautifully.
VARIATIONS
Feel free to play around with this recipe! Here are some variations you might like:
- Add Protein: You can include cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for protein.
- Change Greens: Instead of spinach, try using kale or Swiss chard for a different taste.
- Herbs and Spices: You can add herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for more flavor.
- Different Cheeses: If you’re not a fan of feta, try goat cheese or even mozzarella for creaminess.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used directly without needing to thaw. Cook them according to the package instructions.
2. What type of olive oil should I use?
You can use regular olive oil or extra virgin olive oil for more flavor.
3. Can I omit the garlic?
Yes, you can skip the garlic if you prefer. The dish will still be tasty without it.
4. Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian and a great option for those who follow a plant-based diet.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Crispy Gnocchi With Spinach And Feta
To save time, you can prepare some elements of this dish ahead of time. You can wash and chop the spinach a day in advance and store it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can cook the gnocchi ahead of time, but it’s best to fry them just before serving to keep their crispiness. If you want to make the entire dish in advance, just store it properly in the fridge and reheat when needed. Enjoy your cooking!
Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the gnocchi to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually until they float to the surface after about 2-3 minutes.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the gnocchi from the water and allow them to drain in a bowl.
- In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the cooked gnocchi to the pan.
- Cook them undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy on one side.
- Gently stir the gnocchi to turn them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are crispy on all sides.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the pan.
- Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the fresh spinach to the pan and stir gently.
- Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Remove the pan from heat.
- Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, letting it mix with the other ingredients.
- Serve immediately on plates.