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Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Tomato basil gnocchi is a delightful Italian comfort dish that brings together pillowy soft potato dumplings with the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and aromatic basil. This simple yet elegant recipe transforms basic ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and satisfying
- Uses simple, fresh ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen pantry and herb garden
- Combines the comfort of tender gnocchi with the bright, summery flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil
- Easily customizable with additional vegetables, proteins, or cheese to suit your family’s preferences
- Budget-friendly recipe that feeds four people without breaking the bank while still feeling special
Why This Tomato Basil Gnocchi Recipe Works
This recipe succeeds because it balances simplicity with flavor. The key lies in using quality ingredients and proper timing. Fresh tomatoes release their natural juices when sautéed, creating a light sauce that coats the gnocchi perfectly.
The garlic provides aromatic depth without overpowering the delicate tomato flavor. Adding fresh basil at the end preserves its bright, peppery notes. Store-bought gnocchi saves time while still delivering authentic Italian taste and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Tomato Basil Gnocchi
This dish offers the perfect combination of comfort and freshness. The soft, pillowy gnocchi provides a satisfying base while the tomatoes add brightness and acidity. Fresh basil elevates the entire dish with its distinctive aroma.
The recipe is incredibly versatile and forgiving. You can adjust the garlic level, add extra vegetables, or incorporate different herbs. It’s also naturally vegetarian and can easily accommodate various dietary preferences.
What You’ll Need for Perfect Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity (Approx) | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gnocchi | 1 pound | Main base, provides hearty texture |
| Ripe tomatoes | 2 cups, chopped | Creates natural sauce, adds freshness |
| Fresh basil leaves | 1 cup | Aromatic herb, adds peppery flavor |
| Garlic cloves | 4, minced | Provides savory depth and aroma |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Cooking medium, adds richness |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup, grated | Adds umami and creamy finish |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Enhances all flavors |
Tools
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large pot | For boiling gnocchi |
| Large skillet | For sautéing vegetables |
| Slotted spoon | For removing gnocchi from water |
| Sharp knife | For chopping tomatoes and mincing garlic |
| Cutting board | Safe surface for food preparation |
How to Make Tomato Basil Gnocchi
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Prep ingredients | Chop tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and mince garlic finely |
| Cook gnocchi | Boil salted water and cook gnocchi until they float (2-3 minutes). Remove with slotted spoon |
| Sauté aromatics | Heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat, add garlic and sauté for one minute |
| Add tomatoes | Add chopped tomatoes and cook until softened and releasing juices |
| Combine | Toss cooked gnocchi with sautéed garlic and tomatoes. Stir in fresh basil |
| Finish and serve | Sprinkle Parmesan over mixture, toss gently, and serve with extra olive oil |
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Don’t overcook the gnocchi – they’re done as soon as they float to the surface of the boiling water
- Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor and natural sweetness in your sauce
- Add fresh basil at the very end to preserve its bright color and prevent it from wilting
- Save some pasta water before draining – it helps bind the sauce if needed
- Warm your serving plates beforehand to keep the dish hot longer when serving
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Tips
Serve your tomato basil gnocchi immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of quality olive oil. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper adds a nice finishing touch.
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside grilled chicken or other protein options.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or broth to prevent the gnocchi from becoming tough.
Mistakes to Avoid When Making Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Avoid overcooking the gnocchi, as they become mushy and lose their appealing texture. Don’t skip the step of sautéing the garlic first – this builds the flavor foundation for the entire dish.
Never add the basil too early in the cooking process. Heat destroys its delicate flavor and turns the leaves dark. Also, resist the urge to add too much liquid – the tomatoes should provide enough moisture.
Don’t use pre-shredded cheese if possible. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides superior flavor. Finally, avoid crowding the pan when sautéing, as this causes steaming instead of proper browning.
You Must Know
- Fresh gnocchi cooks much faster than dried pasta, so watch carefully to avoid overcooking
- The quality of your tomatoes directly impacts the final dish – choose ripe, flavorful varieties
- Room temperature ingredients blend more easily and create a smoother final texture
- This recipe doubles easily for larger gatherings or meal prep purposes
Tips and Tricks for Tomato Basil Gnocchi
For extra flavor depth, try roasting your tomatoes beforehand. This concentrates their sweetness and adds a subtle smoky note. You can also experiment with different tomato varieties like cherry tomatoes or heirloom varieties.
Consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity, or incorporate other herbs like oregano or thyme. For a protein boost, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage. Pine nuts or toasted breadcrumbs provide textural contrast.
Suggestions for Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Transform this basic recipe by adding roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant. For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese at the end.
Try different cheese options like fresh mozzarella, ricotta, or goat cheese for variety. You can also make this dish more substantial by serving it alongside garlic shrimp or other complementary dishes.
For inspiration and variations, check out these excellent recipes: Quick and Easy Tomato Basil Gnocchi and Crispy Gnocchi with Burst Tomatoes.
FAQ for Tomato Basil Gnocchi
FAQs:
Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly. Cook them directly from frozen in boiling salted water until they float, which typically takes 3-4 minutes instead of 2-3 minutes for fresh gnocchi.
Use plenty of boiling salted water and stir gently once you add the gnocchi. Don’t overcook them, and toss immediately with the sauce or a little olive oil after draining.
While best served fresh, you can prepare the tomato-basil sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the gnocchi fresh when ready to serve and combine with the reheated sauce.
While fresh basil is ideal, you can use dried basil (use 1/3 the amount), fresh spinach, or fresh parsley. Each will create a different but delicious flavor profile.
Gnocchi are done when they float to the surface of the boiling water. This usually takes 2-3 minutes for fresh gnocchi and 3-4 minutes for frozen ones.
Conclusion
This tomato basil gnocchi recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and time. The combination of tender gnocchi, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic basil creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
With simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can create this impressive dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The recipe’s versatility allows for endless customization while maintaining its essential Italian character and comforting appeal.
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📖 Recipe Card
Tomato Basil Gnocchi
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A delicious and easy recipe for tomato basil gnocchi featuring fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and tender gnocchi in a simple yet flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Gnocchi
- 2 cups Ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup Fresh basil leaves
- 4 Garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep ingredients: Chop tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and mince garlic finely
- Cook gnocchi: Boil salted water and cook gnocchi until they float (2-3 minutes). Remove with slotted spoon
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat, add garlic and sauté for one minute
- Add tomatoes: Add chopped tomatoes and cook until softened and releasing juices
- Combine: Toss cooked gnocchi with sautéed garlic and tomatoes. Stir in fresh basil
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle Parmesan over mixture, toss gently, and serve with extra olive oil
Notes
- Don’t overcook the gnocchi – they’re done as soon as they float to the surface of the boiling water
- Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor and natural sweetness in your sauce
- Add fresh basil at the very end to preserve its bright color and prevent it from wilting
- Save some pasta water before draining – it helps bind the sauce if needed
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 385 calories
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: tomato basil gnocchi, easy gnocchi recipe, fresh tomato sauce, Italian pasta, quick dinner, vegetarian meal
