Lemon Gnocchi Recipe
This lemon gnocchi recipe is simple and elegant, using just seven ingredients. Start by mashing well-drained ricotta cheese and mixing in egg yolks, lemon zest, and salt. Gradually add durum semolina flour to form a soft dough. Roll and cut the dough into pieces, then boil until they float. For the sauce, melt butter, add lemon juice, cream, and Parmesan. Toss the gnocchi in the sauce, and enjoy a delicious meal. Plus, there’s more to discover about seasoning and presentation.
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
When you try this Lemon Gnocchi recipe, you’ll discover just how easy it’s to prepare a delicious meal that impresses. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:
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Easy to Prepare: With only 7 staple ingredients, you’ll find it quick to make. It takes just 5 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook.
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Flavorful Components: The luxurious lemon cream sauce, fresh Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and heavy cream create a rich flavor. Fresh basil adds an aromatic touch. Additionally, the recipe features a minimalist and elegant presentation that enhances the dining experience.
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Versatility: This dish suits both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. You can adapt it with extra ingredients like asparagus or chicken.
Recipe
Lemon Gnocchi is a delightful dish that combines the creamy richness of ricotta with the bright, zesty flavor of lemon. It’s a comforting, yet invigorating meal that can be enjoyed year-round. Gnocchi, which are small dumplings typically made from potatoes or flour, take on a unique twist when ricotta is used as the base. The addition of lemon zest not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lightness that makes this dish perfect for any occasion.
This recipe will guide you through making homemade ricotta gnocchi, paired with a luscious lemon butter sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find that this dish is simple to prepare yet impressively delicious. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a comforting bowl of lemony goodness!
Ingredients:
– 1 16oz container ricotta cheese, well-drained
– 2 egg yolks
– Zest of one large lemon
– Pinch salt
– 2 cups (approx.) durum semolina flour (varies by recipe)
– Butter (for sauce)
– Lemon juice (for sauce)
– Fresh parsley or mint (for sauce)
– Heavy cream (for sauce)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)
– Additional lemon zest and salt (for seasoning)
Cooking Instructions:
1. Begin by mashing the ricotta cheese in a large mixing bowl using a fork. Once it’s smooth, mix in the egg yolks, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined.
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Gradually add the durum semolina flour to the ricotta mixture to form a soft dough. Knead the dough gently until it’s smooth and cohesive. If it feels too sticky, add a bit more flour as needed.
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Divide the dough into four equal quarters. Roll each piece into long ropes, approximately 1/2 inch thick. Cut these ropes into 1/2 inch pieces to form gnocchi.
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Lightly dust the gnocchi with flour to prevent sticking, then take a fork and gently roll each piece off the tines to create grooves, which will help hold the sauce later.
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the gnocchi into the boiling water and cook until they float to the surface, which indicates they’re done. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.
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For the lemon butter sauce, melt butter in a sauté pan over low heat. Once melted, stir in lemon juice, followed by the chopped parsley or mint. Mix to combine.
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Next, pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently until heated through. Then, add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
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Finally, add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce and toss gently to coat. Season with additional lemon zest and salt to taste before serving.
Extra Tips:
When making your gnocchi, verify that your ricotta is well-drained to avoid excess moisture, which can make the dough too sticky.
Additionally, if you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding vegetables like peas or spinach to the sauce or try different cheeses for a unique taste.
This dish can also be made in advance; simply freeze the uncooked gnocchi and cook them straight from the freezer for a quick meal. Enjoy your homemade lemon gnocchi!
Final Thoughts
Preparing lemon gnocchi can be a rewarding experience, especially when you focus on the key elements that make this dish shine. This versatile meal fits any season and can be paired with ingredients like asparagus or peas. You can whip it up for casual dinners or impress guests at a party. To simplify cooking, try a one-pot method and make sure your lemon cream sauce thickens before adding the gnocchi. High-quality ingredients, like fresh basil and real lemon zest, are essential for flavor. Using fresh gnocchi will enhance the texture and overall taste of the dish. For presentation, plate the gnocchi in a shallow bowl, sprinkle parmesan on top, and garnish with basil and extra lemon zest. With these tips, you’ll create a delicious and visually appealing dish that everyone will enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze Lemon Gnocchi for Later Use?
Yes, you can freeze lemon gnocchi for later use. Just make certain you follow proper freezing methods to maintain texture and flavor. Remember to store them in a single layer and label your container.
What Type of Potatoes Work Best for Gnocchi?
When it comes to gnocchi, using Russet potatoes is like finding gold. Their high starch and low moisture create the fluffy texture you crave. Avoid waxy varieties; they’ll ruin your perfect dish! Stick with the right potatoes.
How Can I Make This Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free gnocchi, use a gluten-free flour blend with rice and tapioca flour. Choose Russet potatoes for a soft texture, and consider adding xanthan gum if your flour blend lacks a binder.
What Sauces Pair Well With Lemon Gnocchi?
Choosing sauces for lemon gnocchi is like picking the perfect wine for a meal. You can’t go wrong with creamy lemon, butter and Parmesan, or a light garlic sauce to enhance that invigorating flavor. Enjoy!
How Long Does Leftover Gnocchi Last in the Fridge?
Leftover gnocchi lasts about 2-5 days in the fridge if you store it properly in an airtight container. Always check for spoilage signs before eating, like off-odors or a slimy texture.
