Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe
This Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta recipe features perfectly pan-fried gnocchi that are golden and crispy on the outside, tender inside, tossed with fresh wilted spinach and tangy crumbled feta cheese. Flavored with garlic and a hint of red pepper flakes, this quick and easy stovetop dish makes a delicious vegetarian meal or side that comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Gnocchi
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables & Cheese
- 4 cups fresh spinach (about 120 g)
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled (about 115 g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Cook the gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the surface, usually about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the gnocchi and set them aside to drain.
- Fry the gnocchi: In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cooked gnocchi and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until they become golden brown and crispy on one side.
- Crisp all sides: Gently stir the gnocchi and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring they get crispy on all sides.
- Sauté the garlic: Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Wilt the spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the pan and stir gently until it wilts, which will take about 2-3 minutes.
- Season the dish: Season the gnocchi and spinach mixture with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Remove the pan from the heat.
- Add the feta cheese: Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, mixing until combined and slightly warmed by the residual heat.
Notes
- Use store-bought gnocchi for convenience or make your own for a more homemade touch.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit to keep it mild.
- To make this dish vegan, substitute feta with a plant-based cheese option.
- Serve immediately for best crispiness, as gnocchi tends to soften as it sits.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in a skillet to maintain crispiness.
Keywords: crispy gnocchi, spinach, feta cheese, pan-fried gnocchi, easy vegetarian dinner, quick Italian recipes
