Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe

Introduction

Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is a deliciously simple dish that combines tender gnocchi with fresh spinach and tangy feta cheese. The gnocchi gets perfectly golden and crispy on the outside, creating a satisfying texture contrast with the creamy cheese and wilted greens. This meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting treat.

Ingredients

• 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)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the gnocchi and set them aside to drain.
2. Step 2: In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cooked gnocchi and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy on one side.
3. Step 3: Gently stir the gnocchi and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing them to become crispy on all sides.
4. Step 4: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
5. Step 5: Add the fresh spinach, stirring gently until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Step 6: Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Remove the pan from heat.
7. Step 7: Stir in the crumbled feta cheese until combined. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, use a non-stick pan and avoid overcrowding the gnocchi while frying.
• Swap spinach for kale or arugula for a different leafy green flavor.
• Try adding toasted pine nuts or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and taste.
• If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, sauté the garlic with the olive oil before adding the gnocchi.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the gnocchi crispy, or microwave briefly if preferred. Avoid overheating to prevent the spinach from becoming mushy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works well. Cook it according to the package directions until it floats, then proceed with frying as instructed.

Is it necessary to boil the gnocchi before frying?

Boiling the gnocchi first ensures they are cooked through and tender inside. Frying alone will crisp the outside but won’t properly cook raw gnocchi.

Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 108 reviews

This Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is a quick and delicious skillet dish featuring golden, crispy gnocchi sautéed with fresh spinach, garlic, and tangy feta cheese. Perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal packed with vibrant flavors and textures.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Gnocchi

• 1 pound gnocchi

Vegetables & Herbs

• 4 cups fresh spinach (about 120 g)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Cheese

• 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled (about 115 g)

Seasonings & Oils

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the surface, usually about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the gnocchi and set them aside to drain.
2. Brown Gnocchi: In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cooked gnocchi and cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes until they become golden brown and crispy on one side.
3. Crisp All Sides: Gently stir the gnocchi and cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring they get crispy on all sides for an even texture.
4. Sauté Garlic: 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 it.
5. Wilt Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the pan, stirring gently until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season: Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Remove from heat to preserve the fresh flavors.
7. Add Feta: Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, allowing it to combine with the other ingredients. Serve immediately on plates while warm and crispy.

Notes

• For extra crunch, you can finish the dish under a broiler for 1-2 minutes after adding the feta.
• Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice hint of heat that complements the feta.
• Make sure not to overcook the spinach; wilting it just enough keeps its bright green color and nutrients.
• This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the contrast of crispy gnocchi and creamy feta.
• You can substitute fresh spinach with baby kale or Swiss chard for variation.

Keywords: crispy gnocchi, spinach, feta, vegetarian, quick dinner, Italian gnocchi recipe