Quick and Easy Tomato Basil Gnocchi Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was created for 2 servings. Quantities are automatically scaled, but cooking steps remain the same. Not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 2 cups potato gnocchi
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pinch Italian seasoning
• 3/4 cup prepared spaghetti sauce
• 1/4 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese, or to taste
• 6 fresh basil leaves, finely sliced, or to taste

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 3-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and saut for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and toss the gnocchi in the garlic butter.
4. Pour the spaghetti sauce over the gnocchi and gently stir. Cook until the sauce is warmed through, roughly 5 minutes.
5. Serve the gnocchi in bowls and garnish with freshly shredded Parmesan and thin strips of basil.

Cook's Note: Using freshly made gnocchi from leftover mashed potatoes, flour, and egg adds a soft, pillowy texture that elevates this simple dish.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 401
• Total Fat: 12g (15% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 6g (30% DV)
• Cholesterol: 62mg (21% DV)
• Sodium: 666mg (29% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 60g (22% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (16% DV)
• Total Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 13g (26% DV)
• Vitamin C: 12mg (13% DV)
• Calcium: 178mg (14% DV)
• Iron: 4mg (20% DV)
• Potassium: 666mg (14% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient info is based on available data and may not include all ingredients.

The Story Behind Tomato Basil Gnocchi

Gnocchi, often referred to as Italian dumplings, trace their origins back to ancient Roman times, where they were initially made from semolina and water. Over the centuries, the recipe evolved with regional ingredients such as potatoes, which became popular in Northern Italy after their introduction from the Americas in the 16th century. The combination of soft potato gnocchi with fragrant tomato and fresh basil is a classic Italian innovation that highlights the country's love for simple yet flavorful ingredients. This particular style, quick and easy tomato basil gnocchi, has become a modern comfort food, bridging traditional techniques with contemporary convenience.

Regional Variations

In Italy, gnocchi recipes differ significantly from region to region. In Northern Italy, especially in Trentino-Alto Adige and Veneto, potato gnocchi is often served with butter, sage, or creamy sauces. In Central Italy, tomato-based sauces with fresh herbs like basil and oregano are more common. Southern regions, such as Campania, favor a richer tomato sauce often incorporating mozzarella or ricotta. This tomato basil gnocchi recipe draws inspiration from the Campania region, emphasizing the freshness of basil and the vibrant sweetness of tomato sauce, while keeping preparation fast and accessible for home cooks worldwide.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Unlike standard pasta, gnocchi are small, pillowy dumplings made from potatoes and flour rather than semolina or wheat alone. This gives them a uniquely soft texture that soaks up sauces differently than spaghetti or penne. Compared to other gnocchi variations like ricotta or pumpkin gnocchi, the tomato basil version is lighter, highlighting the natural flavors of the sauce and herbs rather than the gnocchi itself. It is also quicker to prepare, as it uses pre-made gnocchi and a simple tomato-based sauce, making it a distinct, convenient alternative to more elaborate traditional recipes.

Typical Occasions and Serving

Tomato basil gnocchi is versatile and can be served as a main course for a light dinner or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It is commonly enjoyed in family kitchens, casual trattorias, and even modern Italian restaurants looking for quick yet authentic offerings. Garnished with freshly shredded Parmesan and slivers of basil, it is visually appealing and often presented in simple bowls to highlight its rustic charm. Its quick cooking time makes it a popular choice for weeknight meals and last-minute gatherings.

Interesting Facts

• The word gnocchi is believed to derive from the Italian word nocchio, meaning a knot in wood, reflecting the dumplings shape and texture.
• Despite its simplicity, tomato basil gnocchi is rich in history, blending centuries-old Italian culinary techniques with modern convenience.
• Fresh basil is considered essential in this dish for authentic flavor; however, dried basil can be used as a substitute with slightly milder taste.
• The dish exemplifies the Italian philosophy of using minimal ingredients to maximize flavor, demonstrating that comfort food can be quick, fresh, and satisfying.
• Many contemporary chefs enhance this dish by lightly broiling the gnocchi with cheese, creating a golden, slightly crisp finish that adds texture.

FAQ about Quick and Easy Tomato Basil Gnocchi Recipe

Comments