Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Crispy Gnocchi with Peas, Asparagus, and Lemon Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 11 reviews

This Crispy Gnocchi with Peas, Asparagus, and Lemon recipe features golden, pan-fried gnocchi paired with tender asparagus and sweet peas, finished with fresh basil, lemon zest, and Parmesan for a bright and satisfying vegetarian dish perfect for spring or summer.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Gnocchi and Cooking Fats

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 pound (454 grams) homemade or packaged gnocchi, fresh or frozen

Vegetables and Seasonings

  • 1 pound (453 grams) asparagus, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 cup (150 grams) fresh or frozen peas (if using fresh peas, pre-boil for a few minutes; frozen peas can be added without thawing)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
  • A large handful of basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest

Cheese

  • ½ cup (45 grams) Parmesan cheese, grated plus more for serving

Instructions

  1. Boil Gnocchi: Bring a large pan of water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until they float to the surface. Remove them from the water and spread them out on a large surface such as a baking sheet to prevent sticking. This step helps the gnocchi dry out, which is key to achieving a crispy texture.
  2. Brown the Gnocchi: In a large sauté pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter starts bubbling, add the drained gnocchi. Cook them for about 2 to 5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown, crispy crust. Remove the browned gnocchi from the pan and set aside.
  3. Cook Vegetables: Using the same pan, add the asparagus pieces and peas. Toss and cook them for 3 to 5 minutes until the asparagus turns tender but still crisp. Season the vegetables with salt and black pepper, then stir in the chopped basil and fresh lemon zest.
  4. Combine and Serve: Return the crispy gnocchi to the pan and mix everything well to combine the flavors. Serve hot, sprinkled with extra grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • For fresher flavor, use fresh basil leaves rather than dried.
  • If using fresh peas, make sure to pre-cook them briefly to ensure tenderness.
  • Make sure to dry the gnocchi well after boiling to achieve maximum crispness when frying.
  • This dish can be served as a main vegetarian course or a hearty side dish.
  • Use good quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian