Gnocchi With Pomodoro Sauce

There’s something truly comforting about a plate of Gnocchi With Pomodoro Sauce. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a rainy afternoon, and the warm, inviting aroma filled my kitchen as I prepared to share it with my family. The soft, pillowy gnocchi paired with a rich, homemade pomodoro sauce just felt like a hug in a bowl. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, around the table, sharing stories and laughter. I often find myself daydreaming about those moments, where the simplest of ingredients come together to create something so flavorful and satisfying.

Key Ingredients for Gnocchi With Pomodoro Sauce

The ingredients in Gnocchi With Pomodoro Sauce are simple yet harmonious. Each component plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s packed with flavor. The gnocchi serves as the perfect base, complemented by the fresh, vibrant notes from the herbs and the rich, comforting taste of the pomodoro sauce. Together, they create a delightful balance that is sure to please.

• ¼ cup DeLallo extra virgin olive oil, plus 1 tablespoon: This high-quality oil adds richness to the sauce and enhances all the flavors.
• 4 stems fresh Italian flat leaf parsley: Fresh herbs elevate the dish, providing a fragrant aroma and a burst of flavor.
• 4 stems fresh oregano: Oregano adds a warm, earthy note that complements the other herbs beautifully.
• 2 stems fresh rosemary: A touch of rosemary offers a slightly piney flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 2 stems fresh basil, plus 2 more stems for serving: Basil is essential for its sweet, aromatic quality that brightens the dish.
• ½ yellow onion, diced: The onion adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, pressed or minced: Garlic is a must for flavor, giving the sauce a savory kick.
• 1 (28 ounce) can DeLallo San Marzano tomatoes: These tomatoes are known for their sweetness and rich flavor, perfect for making a delicious sauce.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the flavors of the sauce.
• Pinch of red pepper flakes: A hint of heat balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
• ¼ cup heavy cream, optional: This adds richness and a velvety texture to the sauce.
• 1 (16-ounce) package DeLallo potato gnocchi: Soft, pillowy dumplings that make the perfect base for the sauce.
• 8 ounces cherry size mozzarella balls, cut in half: Melty mozzarella adds creaminess and flavor.
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan brings an extra layer of flavor and a touch of saltiness.

Step by Step Instructions for Gnocchi With Pomodoro Sauce

Cooking Gnocchi With Pomodoro Sauce is a delightful experience, combining the joy of cooking with the satisfaction of creating something delicious. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

1. Start by adding ¼ cup of olive oil to a 10-inch high-sided sauté pan or saucepan over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up. You want it to shimmer but not smoke — this is essential for bringing out the flavors of the herbs.
2. Next, add the parsley, oregano, rosemary, and 2 stems of basil to the pan. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the herbs become crisp. This step infuses the oil with incredible flavor. Keep an eye on them, as you don’t want to burn the herbs.
3. Once the herbs are crisp, carefully remove them from the pan and discard them. In the same oil, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Lower the heat if necessary to ensure the onions cook gently without browning. You’re aiming for transparency, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Now it’s time to get your hands in there! Crush the San Marzano tomatoes with your hand (be careful of the juice) and add them to the pan. Stir everything together, ensuring the flavors meld.
5. Season the mixture generously with kosher salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Allow this to simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should reduce and thicken, becoming rich and flavorful.
6. After simmering, stir in the optional heavy cream for extra richness. This adds a smooth texture to your sauce that is simply irresistible. Once you’ve added the cream, remove the pan from the heat.
7. While the sauce is simmering, bring another saucepan filled with water to a boil. Once boiling, season it generously with kosher salt and add the gnocchi. Cook until they float to the top, which typically takes just a few minutes. This is a sign that they’re done!
8. After the gnocchi have floated, drain them carefully. Next, place the gnocchi directly into the cooked sauce. Toss gently to coat each piece with the delicious sauce.
9. Top the gnocchi with the halved mozzarella balls and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Drizzle the tops with the remaining olive oil for extra flavor.
10. Finally, broil the assembled dish in the oven for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the tops become crispy and golden brown. Keep a close eye on it, as it can go from perfect to burnt quickly. Once done, garnish with additional basil leaves and serve immediately!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Taking your Gnocchi With Pomodoro Sauce to the next level can be simple with a few tweaks and tips. Here are some ideas to enhance your dish:

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the gnocchi.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Cool the sauce completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to three months.
• Pairing: A side salad with a zesty vinaigrette pairs beautifully with gnocchi for a well-rounded meal.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs! Thyme or sage can also add unique flavors to your sauce.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to mix different cheeses, like adding a sprinkle of feta or asiago for a different flavor twist.

Great Combinations for Gnocchi With Pomodoro Sauce

Serving Gnocchi With Pomodoro Sauce is an opportunity to explore various pairings and occasions. Here are some delightful suggestions:

• Side Dishes: Serve with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal that complements the dish well.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, date nights, or even casual gatherings with friends. It has a comforting yet elegant feel that fits many scenarios.
• Storing Tips: Ensure that any leftovers are cooled before transferring to airtight containers to maintain freshness. This will help preserve the flavors for later enjoyment.
• Seasonal Pairings: In cooler months, serve with a warm bread or garlic knots. During summer, consider a light side like a mixed green salad.
• Lunch Option: Reheat in the microwave for a quick and satisfying lunch option that will keep you energized throughout the day.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Gnocchi With Pomodoro Sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience that unites flavors and brings warmth to your dining table. This dish showcases the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. I encourage you to try making this at home; it’s an easy way to impress your family and friends while enjoying a delicious, home-cooked meal.

Gnocchi With Pomodoro Sauce

The ultimate comfort food, Gnocchi With Pomodoro Sauce is rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying. This easy weeknight dinner is sure to become a family favorite, bringing warmth and flavor to your table. Make it tonight for a delightful meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 500 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Cutting Board
• Large Pot

Ingredients

  

• ¼ cup DeLallo extra virgin olive oil
• 4 stems fresh Italian flat leaf parsley
• 4 stems fresh oregano
• 2 stems fresh rosemary
• 2 stems fresh basil
• ½ yellow onion diced
• 3 cloves garlic pressed or minced
• 1 28 ounce can DeLallo San Marzano tomatoes
• to taste Kosher salt
• to taste freshly ground black pepper
• pinch red pepper flakes
• ¼ cup heavy cream optional
• 1 16-ounce package DeLallo potato gnocchi
• 8 ounces cherry size mozzarella balls cut in half
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

 

• Start by adding ¼ cup of olive oil to a 10-inch high-sided sauté pan or saucepan over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up. You want it to shimmer but not smoke — this is essential for bringing out the flavors of the herbs.
• Next, add the parsley, oregano, rosemary, and 2 stems of basil to the pan. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the herbs become crisp. This step infuses the oil with incredible flavor. Keep an eye on them, as you don't want to burn the herbs.
• Once the herbs are crisp, carefully remove them from the pan and discard them. In the same oil, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Lower the heat if necessary to ensure the onions cook gently without browning. You're aiming for transparency, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
• Now it's time to get your hands in there! Crush the San Marzano tomatoes with your hand (be careful of the juice) and add them to the pan. Stir everything together, ensuring the flavors meld.
• Season the mixture generously with kosher salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Allow this to simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should reduce and thicken, becoming rich and flavorful.
• After simmering, stir in the optional heavy cream for extra richness. This adds a smooth texture to your sauce that is simply irresistible. Once you've added the cream, remove the pan from the heat.
• While the sauce is simmering, bring another saucepan filled with water to a boil. Once boiling, season it generously with kosher salt and add the gnocchi. Cook until they float to the top, which typically takes just a few minutes. This is a sign that they’re done!
• After the gnocchi have floated, drain them carefully. Next, place the gnocchi directly into the cooked sauce. Toss gently to coat each piece with the delicious sauce.
• Top the gnocchi with the halved mozzarella balls and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Drizzle the tops with the remaining olive oil for extra flavor.
• Finally, broil the assembled dish in the oven for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the tops become crispy and golden brown. Keep a close eye on it, as it can go from perfect to burnt quickly. Once done, garnish with additional basil leaves and serve immediately!

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the gnocchi. This dish freezes well! Cool the sauce completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to three months.

Keyword easy weeknight dinner, gnocchi recipe, Italian Comfort Food, pomodoro sauce