Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach, Feta, and Fresh Herbs Recipe
This Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta recipe delivers a delightful combination of textures and fresh flavors. Golden, pan-fried gnocchi is tossed with vibrant baby spinach, tangy Greek feta, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon, creating a quick and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Produce
- 5 ounces baby spinach
- 1 lemon, halved
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- Big handful of chopped dill
- Big handful of chopped mint
Dairy
- 6 ounces Greek feta, crumbled (about 1 cup)
Pantry
- 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1 (16- to 17-ounce) package potato gnocchi (shelf-stable, fresh or frozen)
Instructions
- Prepare the gnocchi: If using frozen gnocchi, thaw according to package instructions or run briefly under warm water and drain well. Ensure the gnocchi are dry to achieve crispiness.
- Heat the olive oil: In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, warm 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil until shimmering but not smoking.
- Fry the gnocchi: Add the gnocchi in a single layer and cook without stirring for 3-5 minutes until the bottoms are golden and crisp. Flip and cook for additional 3-5 minutes until the other sides are also golden and the gnocchi is tender but crispy.
- Season and add heat: Sprinkle crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper over the gnocchi. Stir gently to combine the spices without breaking the gnocchi.
- Add spinach and scallions: Add the baby spinach and sliced scallions to the skillet with the gnocchi. Cook, stirring gently, until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
- Finish with herbs and feta: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped dill, mint, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Add a citrus touch: Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the entire dish, adjusting to taste. Toss gently to combine all ingredients well.
- Serve immediately: Transfer the crispy gnocchi with spinach and feta to serving plates. Season with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
Notes
- For best results, dry gnocchi thoroughly before frying to get maximum crispiness.
- Adjust crushed red pepper to your desired level of spice.
- This dish pairs well with a light green salad for a complete meal.
- You can substitute fresh herbs with dried ones but use less as dried herbs are more concentrated.
- Leftovers are best reheated in a skillet rather than microwave to maintain crispiness.
Keywords: crispy gnocchi, spinach, feta, Mediterranean recipe, pan-fried gnocchi, easy vegetarian dinner