Springy Ricotta Gnocchi With Peas and Herbs

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Have you ever craved a dish that combines the freshness of spring with the comfort of homemade pasta?

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Springy Ricotta Gnocchi With Peas and Herbs
Servings
4

Method

  1. Cut 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter into small pieces and place in a small bowl. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.

  2. Thinly slice 1 large bunch of chives crosswise into rings, or roughly chop if using a different herb like mint, basil, or dill. Peel 1 garlic clove and set aside separately.

  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cover with a lid and keep hot over low heat.

  4. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and lightly dust with flour.

  5. To make the gnocchi dough, use a clean flatweave towel or double layer of paper towels to scrape 16 ounces of whole-milk fresh ricotta and wrap it up to enclose the cheese. Press down forcefully to draw out excess moisture. This step is important to prevent the dumplings from becoming tough. You should have around 14-15 ounces of ricotta after squeezing.

  6. Transfer the ricotta to a medium bowl. Add 1 large egg, 2 large egg yolks, 2 teaspoons of Diamond Crystal salt or 1 teaspoon of Morton kosher salt, and several generous grinds of black pepper. Mix well with a heatproof rubber spatula. Then mix in 1/2 cup of pre-grated Parmesan followed by 1 cup of all-purpose flour. If the dough is sticky, add more flour by the tablespoonful until it

About this recipe

Introduction

Have you ever craved a dish that combines the freshness of spring with the comfort of homemade pasta? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Springy Ricotta Gnocchi With Peas and Herbs. These pillowy bites of goodness are sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

The Magic of Ricotta Gnocchi

Imagine biting into a cloud-like morsel that melts in your mouth, only to be met with bursts of vibrant flavors from fresh peas and aromatic herbs. That's the magic of ricotta gnocchi. These little dumplings are made with ricotta cheese, which gives them a light and fluffy texture.

The Simplicity of Homemade Pasta

Homemade pasta may sound intimidating, but it's surprisingly simple to make. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create a dish that rivals any restaurant-quality meal. Plus, the satisfaction of enjoying a plate of gnocchi that you made from scratch is truly unmatched.

Spring in Every Bite

Spring is a season of renewal and abundance, and this dish captures the essence of that perfectly. The addition of fresh peas and herbs adds a burst of color and flavor, making each bite a celebration of the season. It's like taking a stroll through a blooming garden with every mouthful.

Conclusion

Springy Ricotta Gnocchi With Peas and Herbs is a dish that brings together the best of the season in one delightful plate. The light and airy ricotta gnocchi paired with the freshness of peas and aromatic herbs is a match made in culinary heaven. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress and leave you craving more. So why not embark on a culinary adventure and treat yourself to a taste of spring?

Frequently asked questions

Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?

Absolutely! While fresh peas are ideal for this recipe, frozen peas work just as well. Just be sure to thaw them before adding them to the dish.

Can I substitute the herbs with dried ones?

Fresh herbs are recommended for this recipe as they provide a brighter and more vibrant flavor. However, if you don't have access to fresh herbs, you can use dried ones. Just remember to use them sparingly, as dried herbs are more potent.

Can I make the gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Once the gnocchi is formed, you can freeze them on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to cook them, simply drop them into boiling water straight from the freezer.

How do I know when the gnocchi is cooked?

Gnocchi is cooked when they float to the surface of the boiling water. This usually takes around 2-3 minutes. Be sure not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?

While ricotta is traditional for gnocchi, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like goat cheese or cottage cheese. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can add your favorite vegetables to customize it to your liking. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even roasted butternut squash.

Can I make a sauce to accompany the gnocchi?

Yes, you can! A simple tomato sauce or a creamy Parmesan sauce would complement the flavors of the gnocchi beautifully. Feel free to get creative with your sauce choices.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can! There are various vegan ricotta substitutes available that you can use in place of traditional ricotta cheese. Additionally, you can use plant-based butter or olive oil instead of butter for cooking the gnocchi.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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