Discover the Perfect Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey filled with irresistible textures and mouthwatering flavors! Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is a dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. This recipe showcases the perfect balance of crispy, golden-brown gnocchi, fresh spinach, and the tangy richness of crumbled feta cheese.

Table of Contents

What sets this dish apart is the simple yet ingenious technique of pan-frying the gnocchi to achieve a delightful crunch on the outside, while still maintaining the pillowy softness within. Paired with the vibrant and nutrient-dense spinach, and the bold, salty notes of the feta, each bite of this Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is a flavor explosion that will have you coming back for seconds.

Unlock the Secrets of Crispy Gnocchi

The key to achieving the perfect crispy texture in this dish lies in the careful preparation of the gnocchi. Whether you opt for shelf-stable, fresh, or frozen gnocchi, the key is to pan-fry them until they develop a golden-brown crust on the outside. This simple step transforms the soft, tender gnocchi into a delightful contrast of textures that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

Ingredients for Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta

• 5 ounces baby spinach
• 6 ounces Greek feta, crumbled (about 1 cup)
• 1 lemon, halved
• 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• 1 (16- to 17-ounce) package gnocchi (shelf-stable, fresh, or frozen)
• ¼ to ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• Big handful of chopped dill
• Big handful of chopped mint

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Gnocchi Perfection

Preparing this Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta dish is a breeze, but the results are nothing short of extraordinary. Follow these simple steps to create a culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen:

1. 
   

   In a large bowl, place the baby spinach. Add half of the crumbled feta, the juice of half a lemon, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and a generous pinch of salt. Vigorously rub the ingredients into the spinach to tenderize it. Allow the spinach mixture to sit and soften while you cook the gnocchi.

   
   
2. 
   

   Heat a large (about 12-inch) cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pan. Add the gnocchi, breaking up any that are stuck together. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, tossing every 2 minutes, until the gnocchi are golden and crispy all over. Allow the gnocchi to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, as they will further crisp up as they cool.

   
   
3. 
   

   Add the crispy gnocchi to the bowl with the spinach mixture. Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper, sliced scallions, chopped dill, and chopped mint. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the top, then add the remaining crumbled feta. Toss everything together until well combined.

   
   
4. 
   

   Squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the top of the dish and serve immediately, savoring every delightful bite.

   
   

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

While the combination of Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is already a flavor powerhouse, there are plenty of ways to customize and enhance the dish to suit your personal preferences. Consider adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of savory goodness. Chopped fresh basil or parsley can also add a lovely herbal note. For those seeking a protein boost, grilled chicken or sautéed chickpeas would make excellent additions.

If you’re following a specific dietary plan, this recipe can be easily adapted. For a vegan version, simply omit the feta and use a plant-based cheese alternative. Gluten-free enthusiasts can swap the traditional gnocchi for a gluten-free variety.

Serving Suggestions for Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta

This Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta dish makes for a fantastic weeknight dinner, but it also shines as a delightful option for casual gatherings and potlucks. Pair it with a fresh, crisp salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. The vibrant colors and textures of this dish also make it a visually appealing and Instagram-worthy addition to any table.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet
• Creamy Tuscan Sausage Gnocchi
• One-Pot Loaded Potato and Kielbasa Gnocchi
• Creamy Italian Sausage and Spinach Gnocchi Bake

FAQs about Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta

How do you make gnocchi crispy?

The key to achieving crispy gnocchi is to pan-fry them in a hot skillet with a generous amount of olive oil. Cook the gnocchi for 8-10 minutes, tossing them every 2 minutes, until they develop a golden-brown crust on the outside. Allowing the gnocchi to cool in the pan for 5 minutes will also help them continue crisping up.

Does feta go with gnocchi?

Absolutely! The tangy, salty flavor of feta cheese pairs beautifully with the soft, pillowy texture of gnocchi. The combination of crispy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and crumbled feta creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures in this dish.

Do you have to boil gnocchi before frying it?

No, you don’t need to boil the gnocchi before frying it in this recipe. The gnocchi can go directly from the package (whether shelf-stable, fresh, or frozen) into the hot skillet to be pan-fried until crispy on the outside.

Is gnocchi meant to be crispy?

While gnocchi is often served in a soft, tender state, there is certainly a time and place for crispy gnocchi. In this recipe, the pan-frying technique transforms the gnocchi into a delightful contrast of crispy exteriors and pillowy interiors, making it a unique and irresistible culinary experience.

Elevate Your Culinary Journey with Crispy Gnocchi

Prepare to be captivated by the irresistible flavors and textures of Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta. This dish is a testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients combined with a little culinary ingenuity. Embrace the crispy, golden-brown gnocchi, the fresh and vibrant spinach, and the bold, salty feta – and get ready to embark on a flavor adventure that will leave you craving more. Elevate your weeknight dinners or impress your guests with this delightful creation.

Looking for more visual inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest, where I share new recipes, dinner tips, and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments every week. Buon appetito!

Print