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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian