If you’re craving a delicious and satisfying meal, look no further than gnocchi pan tomato sauce. This dish brings together the soft, pillowy gnocchi with a rich and flavorful tomato sauce that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll find yourself returning to this comforting dish time and again.
Ingredients
To create the perfect gnocchi pan tomato sauce, gather the following core ingredients:
Gnocchi: 1 pound of store-bought potato gnocchi provides the base of this dish. You can also make your own if you prefer.
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil will add richness to the sauce and help sauté the garlic.
Garlic: 3 cloves of minced garlic infuse the dish with aromatic flavor.
Canned diced tomatoes: 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) of diced tomatoes offer a convenient and delicious base for your sauce.
Fresh basil: 1 cup of fresh basil leaves adds a burst of freshness. You can substitute dried basil if necessary but use less.
Salt: 1 teaspoon of salt enhances all the flavors in your dish.
Black pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste) adds a bit of heat.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving) brings depth and richness.
Instructions
To prepare your gnocchi pan tomato sauce, follow these simple steps:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about one minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, including their juices. Stir well to combine with the garlic and oil.
4. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. While the sauce simmers, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions in a separate pot of boiling salted water.
6. Once they float to the surface, usually after about 2-3 minutes, they are ready to be drained.
7. Add cooked gnocchi directly into the skillet with the simmering tomato sauce.
8. Gently stir to coat all gnocchi in the sauce while allowing them to absorb some flavors for an additional 2-3 minutes.
9. Tear fresh basil leaves and fold them into the mixture just before serving for maximum flavor impact.
10. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top for added richness.
Enjoy this delightful gnocchi pan tomato sauce as a quick weeknight dinner or an easy weekend treat! This recipe is adaptable; feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition or protein such as chicken or sausage if you desire more heartiness.
In conclusion, making gnocchi pan tomato sauce is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. The combination of textures from soft gnocchi and robust tomato sauce makes every bite satisfying. With its straightforward preparation and minimal ingredients, this dish has earned its place as a staple in many kitchens around the world. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones, it promises warmth and comfort at every table.
Tips and tricks
When preparing gnocchi pan tomato sauce, a few tips can make your cooking experience smoother and the dish more flavorful. First, always use fresh ingredients. Fresh tomatoes will give your sauce a vibrant taste that canned tomatoes cannot match. If fresh tomatoes are not available, opt for high-quality canned tomatoes.
Next, consider adding herbs like basil or oregano to elevate the flavor profile of your sauce. Fresh herbs provide an aromatic touch that complements the dish beautifully. Additionally, sautéing garlic in olive oil before adding it to the sauce adds depth to its flavor.
Lastly, do not forget the texture of your gnocchi. Cook them until they float to the surface in boiling water for the perfect consistency. This ensures they remain soft and tender when combined with the sauce.
FAQs
What is gnocchi pan tomato sauce?
Gnocchi pan tomato sauce is a rich blend of tomatoes, herbs, and spices designed specifically to complement gnocchi. The sauce is cooked in a pan, allowing flavors to meld beautifully while keeping preparation simple and fast. Typically made with fresh ingredients, this dish brings out the best flavors of each component.
Can I make gnocchi from scratch for this recipe?
Yes! Making gnocchi from scratch can be rewarding and delicious. Combine potatoes with flour and egg to create a soft dough. Roll it out, cut it into pieces, and shape them into small dumplings before cooking. Homemade gnocchi pairs perfectly with your pan tomato sauce.
What other ingredients can I add to enhance my gnocchi pan tomato sauce?
You can customize your gnocchi pan tomato sauce by adding various vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Additionally, proteins like grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can create a heartier meal. Don’t hesitate to sprinkle some grated cheese on top for extra richness.
Gnocchi pan tomato sauce is a wonderful dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion alike. Preparing this recipe allows you to enjoy Italian cuisine right at home while impressing family and friends with minimal effort.