Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables

This Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables is a delightful dish that can be whipped up in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines the lightness of store-bought gnocchi with a rich, buttery corn and tomato sauce. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this vibrant dish fits various occasions, making it both versatile and appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of cook time, you can serve a delicious meal without fuss.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of buttery corn and juicy tomatoes creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the gnocchi.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe works well as a main course or a hearty side, making it perfect for any meal.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
• Minimal Clean-Up: With only one skillet needed, cleaning up is quick and easy.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the gnocchi properly; it ensures they cook evenly.
• Skillet: Used for making the sauce; a larger surface area allows for better heat distribution and faster cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware; it helps mix ingredients gently.
• Colander: Perfect for draining the gnocchi without any hassle.

Ingredients

This Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables can be ready in 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, the buttery corn and tomato sauce takes store-bought gnocchi to the next level.

For the Gnocchi

• 1 lb Gnocchi (store bought)

For the Sauce

• 4 tbsp Butter (divided)
• 2 Shallots (finely diced)
• 1 cup Corn (from 2 ears, frozen is also fine)
• 10 oz Cherry Tomatoes (on-the-vine if possible)

Optional Ingredients

• ½ cup Grated Parmesan or Vegetarian Alternative (plus more for serving)

To Serve

• Fresh Basil
• Sea Salt and Black Pepper

How to Make Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables

Step 1: Boil the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to the packet instructions.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Base

Once cooked, drain the gnocchi but reserve ½ cup of the cooking water. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shallots and corn to the skillet. Cook until they start to color and soften, around 8 minutes. Season well with sea salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes

Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and reduce heat. Cook everything together for another 5 minutes until tomatoes start to burst. Stir in an additional 2 tablespoons of butter.

Step 4: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Stir in the cooked gnocchi into the skillet along with about ¼ -½ cup of reserved cooking water to create a buttery sauce.

Step 5: Adjust for Richness

If desired, add another 1-2 tablespoons of butter depending on how buttery you like your sauce.

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in grated Parmesan or veggie alternative if using. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot with fresh basil on top and more grated cheese if desired. Enjoy your Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables!

How to Serve Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables

Serving Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables can enhance the dining experience. With a few simple additions, you can elevate this dish and impress your family or guests.

Fresh Herb Garnish

• Basil – Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Parsley – Chopped parsley can add a fresh touch and complement the dish beautifully.

Add a Protein

• Grilled Chicken – Slice grilled chicken breast and serve it alongside the gnocchi for added protein.
• Sautéed Shrimp – Quickly sauté shrimp in garlic and olive oil for a seafood twist.

Pair with a Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette can balance the richness of the gnocchi.
• Caesar Salad (Vegetarian) – Use romaine, croutons, and a vegetarian dressing for a classic pairing.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Toast slices of bread with garlic butter to soak up any leftover sauce.
• Focaccia – This flavorful bread complements the meal perfectly.

How to Perfect Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables

Perfecting your Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for an even more delightful dish.

• Use Quality Gnocchi – Choose high-quality store-bought gnocchi for better texture and flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi – Follow package instructions closely to avoid mushy gnocchi.
• Season Your Water – Ensure your boiling water is salty; this enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Reserve Cooking Water – Keep some pasta cooking water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
• Experiment with Vegetables – Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for variety.
• Adjust Butter to Taste – Customize the amount of butter based on how rich you want the sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables

Pairing side dishes with your Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these options:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli – Toss broccoli florets in olive oil, garlic, and roast until tender.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar for freshness.
3. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled until tender-crisp add a great crunch.
4. Zucchini Noodles – Spiralized zucchini makes a light alternative that pairs nicely with gnocchi.
5. Steamed Green Beans – Simple steamed beans seasoned with lemon juice are refreshing and healthy.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts bring an earthy flavor that complements the dish well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be a breeze, but certain mistakes can make your Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables less enjoyable. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold water for cooking gnocchi – Always bring a large pot of water to a boil before adding the gnocchi. Cold water can lead to uneven cooking and mushy texture.
• Not reserving pasta water – Make sure to reserve some cooking water before draining the gnocchi. This starchy liquid is perfect for adjusting the sauce’s consistency.
• Overcooking the vegetables – Keep an eye on your shallots and corn; they should be tender but not mushy. Aim for about 8 minutes of cooking time for the best texture.
• Ignoring seasoning – Season your dish well with sea salt and black pepper. Taste as you go to ensure balanced flavors throughout the meal.
• Skipping fresh herbs – Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor that elevates the dish. Don’t skip this step; garnish generously before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Best used within 1 month.

Reheating Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables.

How can I customize Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables?

You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or even proteins like grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms.

Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Yes, homemade gnocchi can also work well! Just ensure they are cooked properly before combining them with the sauce.

What can I substitute for butter?

If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use olive oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter in this recipe.

How long does it take to prepare Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables?

This dish takes only about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables is not only simple but also wonderfully versatile. You can adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal taste preferences. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables is the perfect dish for those hectic weeknights when you crave something comforting yet quick. In just 15 minutes, you can prepare this delightful meal featuring soft, pillowy gnocchi tossed in a rich buttery corn and tomato sauce. The combination of sweet corn and juicy cherry tomatoes creates an irresistible flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. This versatile recipe allows for endless customization—add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it uniquely yours. With minimal clean-up required, using just one skillet, you can enjoy a satisfying dinner without the fuss.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb store-bought gnocchi
• 4 tbsp butter (divided)
• 2 shallots (finely diced)
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 10 oz cherry tomatoes
• Fresh basil, sea salt, and black pepper to taste
• Optional: ½ cup grated Parmesan or vegetarian alternative

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain, reserving ½ cup cooking water.
2. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add shallots and corn; cook for about 8 minutes until softened. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Stir in cherry tomatoes and reduce heat. Cook for another 5 minutes until tomatoes burst, then add remaining butter.
4. Combine cooked gnocchi with the sauce, adding reserved cooking water to reach desired consistency.
5. If desired, mix in Parmesan or vegetarian cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning.
6. Serve hot garnished with fresh basil.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 30mg