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    Crispy Gnocchi With Burst Tomatoes and Mozzarella

    clock-icon25 minutes
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    Pixicook editorial team

    A delightful dish featuring crispy gnocchi, burst tomatoes, and melted mozzarella, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.

    Ingredients for Crispy Gnocchi With Burst Tomatoes and Mozzarella

    units in
    USchevron
    units in
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    serves
    4 peoplechevron
    serves
    4 peoplechevron

    Extra Virgin Olive Oil

    tablespoons

    Substitute chevron-down

    Potato Gnocchi

    0 oz

    Substitute chevron-down

    Unsalted Butter

    cups

    Substitute chevron-down

    Garlic Clove, thinly sliced

    each

    Substitute chevron-down

    Red Pepper Flakes

    teaspoons

    Substitute chevron-down

    Kosher Salt

    teaspoons

    Substitute chevron-down

    Black Pepper, freshly ground

    to taste

    Substitute chevron-down

    Small Tomatoes

    0 oz

    Substitute chevron-down

    Basil, thinly sliced or torn

    cups

    Substitute chevron-down

    Fresh Mozzarella, cut or torn into 1/2-inch pieces

    0 oz

    Substitute chevron-down

    How to Make Crispy Gnocchi With Burst Tomatoes and Mozzarella

    1. Preheat Broiler

    Preheat your broiler and position a rack about 6 inches from the heat source.

    2. Sear Gnocchi

    Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the gnocchi in a single layer, cooking them in batches if necessary. Let the gnocchi sear without moving them for 2-4 minutes, until they are golden brown on one side. Transfer the seared gnocchi to a medium bowl and set aside.

    3. Prepare Sauce

    Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic, red-pepper flakes, 1.5 teaspoons of kosher salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the butter begins to brown slightly.

    4. Cook Tomatoes

    Add the small tomatoes and 3 tablespoons of water to the skillet. Cook the tomatoes for 4-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they burst and release their juices, forming a light sauce.

    5. Combine Gnocchi and Broil

    Return the seared gnocchi to the skillet and toss to combine. Add the basil leaves and distribute the torn pieces of fresh mozzarella evenly over the top. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil if desired. Place the skillet under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, watching closely, until the mozzarella is melted and browned in spots.

    6. Finish and Serve

    Remove the skillet from the oven and top with additional basil, red-pepper flakes, and black pepper if you like. Serve immediately.

    Variations

    Flavor Swap

    Use oregano for an earthy flavor, red pepper flakes for spice, or different spices like smoked paprika or sumac for a unique twist.

    Protein Swap

    Include crispy pancetta, chorizo, cannellini beans, or chickpeas for added protein.

    Cheese Variation

    Try smoked mozzarella for depth or aged Parmesan for a salty finish.

    Sauce Variation

    Introduce pesto, Alfredo, or béchamel sauce for a creamier dish.

    Protein Addition

    Add crispy pancetta, chorizo, or anchovies for a heartier meal and added umami.

    Pitfalls and tips

    Quality Ingredients

    Use high-quality ingredients such as homemade or premium store-bought gnocchi, ripe tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella for the best flavor.

    Pan Searing

    Sear gnocchi in a hot, non-stick or cast iron pan without overcrowding to achieve a golden crust.

    Fresh Herbs

    Add fresh basil or oregano at the end of cooking to maximize aroma and flavor.

    Gnocchi Preparation

    Pat store-bought gnocchi dry to remove excess moisture or use minimal flour when making your own to keep them light.

    Serving

    Serve immediately to enjoy the crispy gnocchi and gooey cheese at their best.


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