Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables

If you’re looking for a dish that’s quick, comforting, and full of flavor, you’ve found it in this Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables. This recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels like a warm hug.

What I love most about this gnocchi dish is its versatility. It’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends. Plus, the buttery corn and juicy tomatoes elevate store-bought gnocchi to something truly special. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super quick to prepare: Ready in just 15 minutes! Perfect for those evenings when you’re short on time.
• Family-approved flavor: Kids and adults alike love the sweet corn and tangy tomatoes mixed with tender gnocchi.
• Easy cleanup: With just one pan needed, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal.
• Customizable options: Add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own!
• Comforting yet healthy: A nourishing meal that’s satisfying without being heavy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making this dish not only easy to prepare but also nutritious! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb Gnocchi (I used store bought)
• 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)
• ½ cup Grated Parmesan or Vegetarian Alternative (optional, plus more for serving)
• Fresh Basil (to serve)
• Sea Salt and Black Pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily adjust it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add some greens: Toss in some baby spinach or kale for extra nutrition and color.
• Mix up the vegetables: Use zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus instead of corn and tomatoes—get creative!
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a kick of heat that complements the sweetness of the corn.
• Make it vegan: Substitute butter with olive oil and use a plant-based cheese alternative.

How to Make Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pan of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to the packet instructions. Cooking them in salted water enhances their flavor!

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While the gnocchi cooks, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the finely diced shallots and corn. Sauté them until they start to color and soften—this should take about 8 minutes. Season well with sea salt and black pepper; this step builds a flavorful base for your sauce.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes

Now it’s time to bring in those cherry tomatoes! Add them to the skillet, reduce the heat slightly, and let everything cook together for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes begin to burst. Stir in another 2 tablespoons of butter at this stage; it creates that lovely buttery sauce we all crave.

Step 4: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Once your gnocchi is cooked, drain it while reserving about half a cup of that cooking water. Stir the drained gnocchi into the skillet with your sauce. Then add in about ¼ -½ cup of reserved cooking water—this will help create that luscious sauce we’re aiming for!

Step 5: Final Touches

If you like your sauce extra buttery, feel free to add another tablespoon or two of butter. Lastly, stir in grated Parmesan or your vegetarian alternative if using. Give everything a taste and adjust seasoning as needed—don’t forget those fresh basil leaves on top before serving!

This Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables is sure to become a go-to recipe that’s both delightful and uncomplicated! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables

Making this dish is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate your gnocchi experience!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables like ripe cherry tomatoes and sweet corn enhance the flavors and provide vibrant colors to your dish.
• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Cook the gnocchi until they float to the top of the boiling water. Overcooking can make them mushy, losing that delightful texture.
• Adjust the butter: Start with 2 tablespoons and add more if you prefer a richer sauce. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to your taste.
• Experiment with herbs: Don’t hesitate to mix in other fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor complexity. Fresh herbs can truly transform the dish!
• Make it ahead: If you’re meal prepping, you can cook the gnocchi and sauce separately, then combine them when ready to serve. This helps maintain texture.

How to Serve Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables

Serving your gnocchi beautifully can make all the difference in enjoying this delightful meal. Here are some tips on how to present it perfectly!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a pop of color and a burst of aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the buttery sauce.
• Extra Grated Cheese: A light dusting of grated parmesan or a vegetarian alternative on top just before serving enhances richness and visual appeal.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper not only looks great but also adds an extra kick to every bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover buttery sauce, making it a satisfying addition to your meal.
• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the gnocchi beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a hearty touch and complement the meal’s flavors while providing additional nutrients.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a crunchy contrast and an extra dose of fiber, making your dinner even healthier.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables will be a hit at any table! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, making your busy days a little less hectic.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you anticipate not finishing it within this time frame, consider freezing instead.

Freezing

• To freeze, follow the same cooling process and then place the gnocchi in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• For best texture, avoid freezing uneaten portions that contain fresh basil or tomatoes as they may lose their quality.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen the sauce.
• If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming on the stove or microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while preparing this dish!

Can I make Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables vegan?

Absolutely! Just swap out butter for a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a delicious vegan version.

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

This delightful dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for quick weeknight dinners!

What vegetables can I add to Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables?

Feel free to get creative! Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers would make excellent additions while keeping this dish vibrant and nutritious.

Can I use homemade gnocchi in this recipe?

Certainly! Homemade gnocchi will work beautifully. Just be mindful of cooking times as they might differ from store-bought varieties.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy meal at home, there’s something special about enjoying gnocchi tossed with fresh veggies. So gather your ingredients, have fun in the kitchen, and savor every bite. Happy cooking!