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Crispy Pan Fried Gnocchi with Zucchini and Tomatoes Recipe

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4.1 from 10 reviews

A simple yet flavorful recipe for Crispy Pan Fried Gnocchi with sautéed zucchini and tomatoes, enhanced with garlic, shallots, red pepper flakes, and finished with fresh basil and grated Pecorino cheese for a deliciously crispy and tender dish ready in 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Gnocchi

  • 1 pound gnocchi, uncooked
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 tablespoon butter, divided

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 shallot, minced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups zucchini, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or whole

Seasonings & Garnish

  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes or Aleppo flakes
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup Pecorino cheese or Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil, torn

Instructions

  1. Pan-sear gnocchi: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil and butter. Add the gnocchi in batches and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Once crisped, remove from the pan and set aside.
  2. Cook aromatics: In the same skillet, add more olive oil as needed and sauté the minced shallots, garlic, and red pepper flakes for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently over medium heat to release their aromas.
  3. Add veggies: Add the sliced zucchini and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Season with black pepper and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are lightly softened but still retain some bite, about 6 to 8 minutes.
  4. Combine and adjust flavor: Return the crispy gnocchi to the skillet with the vegetables. Drizzle with red wine vinegar, then toss everything together with the grated cheese and fresh torn basil leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more vinegar, olive oil, or salt to your preference.

Notes

  • Work in batches while pan-frying the gnocchi to ensure crispiness without overcrowding the pan.
  • You can substitute Pecorino with Parmesan cheese depending on availability or preference.
  • For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture as the gnocchi can soften if left to sit.
  • Use fresh basil for optimal flavor; dried basil will not give the same fresh brightness.