Easy Homemade Ricotta Gnocchi

Cook Time: 3 minutes

Gnocchi are cloud-like dumplings that evoke feelings of comfort and warmth as only a steaming plate of pasta can. But for many, gnocchi are often reserved for special occasions or restaurant outings. If you typically leave gnocchi-making to the experts or your grandmother, fear not were here to guide you through a simpler, quicker process that anyone can master. With just a few easy tips, making homemade gnocchi has never been easier!

Instead of the time-consuming, hands-on process of traditional potato gnocchi, this version uses a four-ingredient dough with ricotta as the base, making it lighter, fluffier, and much easier to prepare. While the recipe comes together quickly, we recommend making these at least a day before you plan to serve them to get the best results.

Heres how to make easy homemade ricotta gnocchi:

Ingredients

• 2 cups drained ricotta (as dry as possible)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup flour (00 and semolina blend preferred)
• 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: Begin by drying out your ricotta. You can either let it drain overnight in a strainer over a mixing bowl or spread it out on paper towels to remove excess moisture. The drier the ricotta, the better the texture of your gnocchi.

Step 2: Once your ricotta is dry, place it in a food processor and pulse until smooth. Add the eggs and pulse a few more times to combine.

Step 3: Add the flour, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper into the food processor. Pulse just until the dough starts to come together. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.

Step 4: Turn the dough out onto a flour-dusted surface. Gently knead it until it forms a smooth ball. Divide the dough into four sections to make it easier to roll out.

Step 5: Roll each section into a long rope, approximately 1/2 inch thick. Then, cut the rope into 1-inch pieces, creating small dumplings. A knife or pastry cutter works well for this step.

Step 6: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly flour it. Arrange the gnocchi in a single layer on the sheet to prevent them from sticking together.

Step 7: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for at least 20 to 30 minutes. Freezing the gnocchi helps them maintain their shape and texture during cooking. Once frozen, transfer the gnocchi to a freezer-safe resealable plastic bag or . These can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Step 8: When ready to cook, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the frozen gnocchi directly into the water (no need to thaw first). Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pot. The gnocchi will cook in about 3 to 3 1/2 minutes, or until they float to the surface.

Step 9: Use a slotted spoon to remove the gnocchi from the water. Transfer them to a serving platter and drizzle with your sauce of choice.

How to Serve Ricotta Gnocchi

Once you have your gnocchi ready, you can serve them with any sauce that fits your mood. The traditional choice is always a rich tomato sauce, but feel free to get creative! For a lighter, fresher option, consider topping the gnocchi with pesto, mint, peas, and asparagus in the spring. In the fall, brown butter sauce with sage, diced squash, or sweet potatoes makes a perfect pairing. For a comforting winter dish, creamy Alfredo sauce is a delicious choice.

With a batch of gnocchi waiting in your freezer, any night is a great night for a comforting meal!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 298
• Total Fat: 13g (16% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 7g (35% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 114mg (38% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 366mg (16% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 26g (9% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (2% Daily Value)
• Protein: 19g (38% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 369mg (28% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (11% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 197mg (4% Daily Value)

Ricotta gnocchi is a light and delicate variation of the classic Italian dumpling, and this recipe offers a simple, fuss-free way to enjoy it at home. Unlike the traditional potato gnocchi, these are made primarily with ricotta cheese, creating a softer, lighter texture. This article explores the origins, regional variations, and interesting facts about ricotta gnocchi, along with how they differ from similar dishes.

History of Ricotta Gnocchi

Gnocchi, in its various forms, has been part of Italian cuisine for centuries. The name "gnocchi" is derived from the Italian word for "lumps" or "knots," which is an apt description of their shape. The first versions of gnocchi were made from simple ingredients like flour, water, and eggs, and were later adapted to include potatoes in the 18th century, particularly in the region of Piedmont. Ricotta gnocchi, however, has a more recent history, likely emerging in southern Italy where ricotta cheese is a staple. This variation capitalizes on the region's abundance of ricotta, creating a pillowy, cheese-based dumpling that became popular for its lighter texture and quicker preparation time compared to the potato-based version.

Regional Differences

While gnocchi is a beloved dish throughout Italy, regional differences in preparation and ingredients are notable. In the north, particularly in areas like Piedmont and Lombardy, potato gnocchi is most common, whereas in the south, ricotta is often used to make gnocchi, as it is widely available and adds a rich, creamy texture. Southern Italian recipes for ricotta gnocchi can vary significantly; some include spinach, others incorporate semolina or flour in different proportions, and the seasoning can range from a simple salt and pepper to more elaborate herb or spice blends.

How Ricotta Gnocchi Differs from Other Gnocchi

Ricotta gnocchi stands out from traditional potato gnocchi in several key ways. The most noticeable difference is the texturericotta gnocchi is much lighter and fluffier, making it a perfect option for those who prefer a less dense dumpling. Additionally, the preparation process is quicker and simpler since theres no need to boil potatoes or mash them. Instead, the dough is made by combining ricotta cheese with eggs, flour, and Parmesan, then shaping it into small pieces before freezing. This also means that ricotta gnocchi cooks faster, as it only requires a few minutes in boiling water, compared to the longer cooking time of potato gnocchi.

Where is Ricotta Gnocchi Typically Served?

Ricotta gnocchi is commonly served as a main course in Italy, especially during festive meals or family gatherings. In southern Italy, its often paired with rich tomato-based sauces, basil, or simply dressed with olive oil and Parmesan. In restaurants around the world, youll typically find ricotta gnocchi served with a variety of saucespesto, brown butter with sage, or creamy Alfredo are all popular choices. As a versatile dish, it can be adapted to different seasons, offering lighter options in the warmer months and richer, heartier toppings in the cooler months.

Interesting Facts about Ricotta Gnocchi

• Ricotta gnocchi is a great way to use up extra ricotta cheese, a staple in many Italian dishes. In fact, its creation was likely born out of the need to use surplus cheese.
• Freezing ricotta gnocchi before cooking them helps to preserve their delicate texture and makes it easier to store them for future meals. They can be kept in the freezer for up to two months!
• While gnocchi is typically considered a comfort food, ricotta gnocchi can be surprisingly light, making it a popular choice for those who want a decadent yet airy dish.
• Gnocchi has been a part of Italian cuisine since Roman times, but the use of ricotta in gnocchi likely evolved during the Renaissance period as ricotta cheese became more widely produced in southern Italy.
• In Italy, gnocchi are traditionally served on Thursdays, as it's believed to bring good fortune for the rest of the week. This custom, however, is more common in regions where potato gnocchi are the focus.

Whether served with a simple drizzle of olive oil or a luxurious sauce, homemade ricotta gnocchi provides an easy, elegant meal that can be made any night of the week. Its a comforting dish that offers a perfect balance of lightness and flavor, with a touch of Italian tradition in every bite.

FAQ about Easy Homemade Ricotta Gnocchi

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