Gnocchi with Tomato and Basil Sauce Recipe
Have you ever tasted freshly made gnocchi with a vibrant tomato and basil sauce that transports you straight to Italy? This Gnocchi with Tomato and Basil Sauce Recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your dinner guests. It’s a perfect dish for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
This recipe captures the essence of Italian cooking, combining pillowy soft gnocchi with a luscious tomato sauce infused with fresh basil. The flavors are bright, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking to try your hand at making gnocchi, this dish is a must-try.
Homemade Gnocchi: A Culinary Delight
Homemade gnocchi is a dish that brings the essence of traditional Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. Each tender dumpling is made from simple ingredients, yet the outcome is nothing short of spectacular. Paired with a vibrant tomato and basil sauce, this meal is perfect for anyone looking to impress their dinner guests or simply enjoy a cozy night in.
The beauty of gnocchi lies in its fluffy texture, which comes from the careful preparation of potatoes. When done right, they create a light and airy base that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the accompanying sauce. This Gnocchi with Tomato and Basil Sauce Recipe highlights how accessible and enjoyable making pasta from scratch can be.
The Allure of Tomato and Basil Sauce
A vibrant tomato sauce infused with fresh basil is what truly elevates this dish. The combination of canned crushed tomatoes and aromatic garlic brings forth a robust flavor profile that pairs exceptionally well with the gnocchi. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Fresh basil leaves add a touch of brightness, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes. This sauce is not just a topping; it becomes an integral part of the dish, coating each gnocchi perfectly. When served, the contrast of the red sauce against the soft, pillowy dumplings is visually stunning.
Creating the Perfect Gnocchi
Making gnocchi is an art that requires a bit of patience but is immensely rewarding. Start by boiling the potatoes until they are tender. It’s essential to let them cool slightly before peeling and mashing them. A ricer can help achieve a smooth consistency, which is key to fluffy gnocchi.
Combining the mashed potatoes with flour and an egg forms the dough. This must be mixed until just combined; overworking it can lead to tough gnocchi. Shaping the dumplings involves rolling the dough into ropes and cutting them into bite-sized pieces—this is where you can choose to add the classic ridges using a fork, which helps the sauce cling better.
The Cooking Process
Cooking the gnocchi is straightforward. Once you drop them into a pot of salted boiling water, they will float when ready, signaling that they are done. This method ensures they remain light and tender.
Simultaneously, prepare the tomato sauce in a large skillet. Heating olive oil and sautéing garlic creates a fragrant foundation for the sauce. After adding the crushed tomatoes and allowing it to simmer, stir in the fresh basil, which infuses the dish with a wonderful aroma and taste.
Serving Up the Dish
To serve, gently toss the cooked gnocchi in the tomato sauce until each piece is well coated. The visual appeal at this stage is hard to resist; bright red sauce glistens against the soft gnocchi.
For that final touch, a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a creamy richness. Fresh basil leaves can be used as a garnish, enhancing both the flavor and presentation of the dish. The rustic charm of a wooden table as a backdrop further enriches the dining experience, making every meal feel special.
Why This Dish is a Must-Try
This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Each bite of the fluffy gnocchi combined with the rich tomato sauce creates a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to please anyone at the table. With the right ingredients and a little bit of effort, you can create a stunning plate reminiscent of an authentic Italian dinner.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this homemade gnocchi with tomato and basil sauce is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. It’s an exciting way to bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen, making every meal a delightful occasion.
Delicious Homemade Gnocchi with Tomato and Basil Sauce
This gnocchi recipe features tender dumplings made from potatoes, served in a rich tomato sauce that is enhanced with fragrant basil. The combination creates a harmonious balance of flavors, making every bite a delightful experience.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 pound potatoes, preferably Russet or Yukon Gold
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes: Boil the potatoes in their skins until tender. Drain and let cool slightly before peeling.
- Make the Gnocchi Dough: Pass the peeled potatoes through a ricer or mash them until smooth. In a large bowl, combine the potato, flour, egg, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms, adding more flour if necessary.
- Shape the Gnocchi: Divide the dough into quarters. Roll each piece into a rope about 1/2 inch thick, then cut into 1-inch pieces. Optionally, use a fork to create ridges on each piece.
- Cook the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in the basil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Gnocchi: In a large pot of salted boiling water, add the gnocchi. Cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to the sauce.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked gnocchi gently in the sauce until well coated. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil, if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
Have you ever tasted freshly made gnocchi with a vibrant tomato and basil sauce that transports you straight to Italy? This Gnocchi with Tomato and Basil Sauce Recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your dinner guests. It’s a perfect dish for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
This recipe captures the essence of Italian cooking, combining pillowy soft gnocchi with a luscious tomato sauce infused with fresh basil. The flavors are bright, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking to try your hand at making gnocchi, this dish is a must-try.
Homemade Gnocchi: A Culinary Delight
Homemade gnocchi is a dish that brings the essence of traditional Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. Each tender dumpling is made from simple ingredients, yet the outcome is nothing short of spectacular. Paired with a vibrant tomato and basil sauce, this meal is perfect for anyone looking to impress their dinner guests or simply enjoy a cozy night in.
The beauty of gnocchi lies in its fluffy texture, which comes from the careful preparation of potatoes. When done right, they create a light and airy base that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the accompanying sauce. This Gnocchi with Tomato and Basil Sauce Recipe highlights how accessible and enjoyable making pasta from scratch can be.
The Allure of Tomato and Basil Sauce
A vibrant tomato sauce infused with fresh basil is what truly elevates this dish. The combination of canned crushed tomatoes and aromatic garlic brings forth a robust flavor profile that pairs exceptionally well with the gnocchi. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Fresh basil leaves add a touch of brightness, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes. This sauce is not just a topping; it becomes an integral part of the dish, coating each gnocchi perfectly. When served, the contrast of the red sauce against the soft, pillowy dumplings is visually stunning.
Creating the Perfect Gnocchi
Making gnocchi is an art that requires a bit of patience but is immensely rewarding. Start by boiling the potatoes until they are tender. It’s essential to let them cool slightly before peeling and mashing them. A ricer can help achieve a smooth consistency, which is key to fluffy gnocchi.
Combining the mashed potatoes with flour and an egg forms the dough. This must be mixed until just combined; overworking it can lead to tough gnocchi. Shaping the dumplings involves rolling the dough into ropes and cutting them into bite-sized pieces—this is where you can choose to add the classic ridges using a fork, which helps the sauce cling better.
The Cooking Process
Cooking the gnocchi is straightforward. Once you drop them into a pot of salted boiling water, they will float when ready, signaling that they are done. This method ensures they remain light and tender.
Simultaneously, prepare the tomato sauce in a large skillet. Heating olive oil and sautéing garlic creates a fragrant foundation for the sauce. After adding the crushed tomatoes and allowing it to simmer, stir in the fresh basil, which infuses the dish with a wonderful aroma and taste.
Serving Up the Dish
To serve, gently toss the cooked gnocchi in the tomato sauce until each piece is well coated. The visual appeal at this stage is hard to resist; bright red sauce glistens against the soft gnocchi.
For that final touch, a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a creamy richness. Fresh basil leaves can be used as a garnish, enhancing both the flavor and presentation of the dish. The rustic charm of a wooden table as a backdrop further enriches the dining experience, making every meal feel special.
Why This Dish is a Must-Try
This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Each bite of the fluffy gnocchi combined with the rich tomato sauce creates a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to please anyone at the table. With the right ingredients and a little bit of effort, you can create a stunning plate reminiscent of an authentic Italian dinner.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this homemade gnocchi with tomato and basil sauce is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. It’s an exciting way to bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen, making every meal a delightful occasion.
Delicious Homemade Gnocchi with Tomato and Basil Sauce
This gnocchi recipe features tender dumplings made from potatoes, served in a rich tomato sauce that is enhanced with fragrant basil. The combination creates a harmonious balance of flavors, making every bite a delightful experience.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 pound potatoes, preferably Russet or Yukon Gold
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes: Boil the potatoes in their skins until tender. Drain and let cool slightly before peeling.
- Make the Gnocchi Dough: Pass the peeled potatoes through a ricer or mash them until smooth. In a large bowl, combine the potato, flour, egg, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms, adding more flour if necessary.
- Shape the Gnocchi: Divide the dough into quarters. Roll each piece into a rope about 1/2 inch thick, then cut into 1-inch pieces. Optionally, use a fork to create ridges on each piece.
- Cook the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in the basil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Gnocchi: In a large pot of salted boiling water, add the gnocchi. Cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to the sauce.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked gnocchi gently in the sauce until well coated. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil, if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 62g