Lemon Garlic Butter Gnocchi

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 4

Equipment:
Large skillet
pot
colander
spatula

Cuisine Type: Italian

Lemon Garlic Butter Gnocchi is a delightful and quick dish that brings the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine right to your table. This recipe features pillowy gnocchi sautéed in a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce, enhanced with a touch of fresh lemon juice and zest. The combination of butter and garlic creates a luxurious coating for the gnocchi, while the brightness of the lemon balances the dish beautifully, making it perfect for any occasion—from a weeknight dinner to a special gathering.

This dish not only comes together in under 30 minutes, but it also allows for easy customization. You can add your favorite vegetables, like spinach or cherry tomatoes, for a pop of color and nutrition. Serve it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and some fresh herbs for an added layer of flavor. This Lemon Garlic Butter Gnocchi is sure to become a go-to recipe in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

1 pound gnocchi
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Once cooked, drain the gnocchi in a colander and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant but not browned. Be careful as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor to the dish.
Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss gently to coat them in the garlic butter. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to crisp up slightly on the outside.
Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together to guarantee the gnocchi are evenly coated with the sauce and the flavors are well combined.
Serve the gnocchi hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Gnocchi!

Extra Tips:

For a little extra texture and flavor, consider adding a handful of spinach or arugula to the skillet just before serving; it will wilt beautifully in the warm butter sauce. Additionally, if you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick to the dish.

This recipe is versatile, so feel free to experiment with different herbs or add-ins to make it your own!