Description
A cozy and satisfying one-pan meal featuring crispy gnocchi, creamy feta, and wilted spinach, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 pound shelf-stable or fresh potato gnocchi (Shelf-stable gnocchi holds shape well, while fresh is more delicate.)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (Use good quality olive oil for best flavor.)
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced (Adds aromatic flavor.)
- 5 ounces baby spinach (Can substitute with thawed frozen spinach.)
- 1 small lemon, zested and juiced (Lemon zest brightens the flavor.)
- 1 cup crumbled feta (Choose a flavorful feta.)
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes, optional (For a bit of heat.)
- to taste salt and black pepper (Adjust to personal preference.)
- 1/3 cup toasted walnuts or pine nuts, optional (For added crunch.)
Instructions
Cooking
- Warm the skillet and add olive oil. Allow the pan to get hot.
- Add the gnocchi straight from the package in an even layer and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes before stirring to create a crispy exterior.
- Stir occasionally until all sides are golden brown, about 6 to 8 minutes total. If the pan looks dry, add another teaspoon of oil.
- Add sliced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burned.
- Toss in the spinach; it will wilt quickly. A sprinkle of salt will help it collapse.
- Finish with lemon zest and juice, turning off the heat and folding in the feta to soften slightly. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
For extra crispy gnocchi, dry them if fresh, use enough oil, and avoid overcrowding the pan. Variations include adding sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or cooked proteins like chicken or sausage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean