Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 20 flavorful vegetarian gnocchi recipes! Gnocchi, those soft and pillowy Italian dumplings, are a staple in many cuisines around the world. And when you add a variety of creative sauces and toppings, the possibilities become endless.
From classic combinations like creamy spinach and ricotta to bold flavors like roasted tomato and basil, these recipes will take your taste buds on a journey. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for new meal ideas or just a foodie eager to try something new, this collection has got you covered.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of gnocchi and explore 20 unique and delicious vegetarian recipe options that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi
This recipe combines the comfort of homemade gnocchi with the flavors of spinach and ricotta, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta, and flour. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until a dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into 4 pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope.
4. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi for 2-3 minutes or until they float.
6. In a separate pan, melt butter and cream over medium heat. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
7. Serve the cooked gnocchi with the creamy sauce and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Tomato and Basil Gnocchi
Roasted Tomato and Basil Gnocchi: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh or frozen gnocchi
– 2 large tomatoes, cored and halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted tomatoes, basil, and cooked gnocchi. Toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pesto and Pine Nut Gnocchi
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful dish featuring homemade gnocchi infused with the vibrant flavors of pesto and toasted pine nuts. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours and salt.
3. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture; add egg, olive oil, pesto sauce, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces; roll each piece into a long rope.
6. Cut the ropes into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces to form gnocchi.
7. Cook gnocchi in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float.
8. Serve with your favorite sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Mushroom Gnocchi
Savor the rich flavors of this comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring pillowy gnocchi smothered in a decadent garlic butter and sautéed mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined with the mushroom mixture.
5. Combine cooked gnocchi with the mushroom mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive Gnocchi
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive Gnocchi recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash and let cool.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, semolina flour, and salt. Add the mashed potatoes, olive oil, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives. Mix well to form a dough.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll out each piece into a long rope, then cut into 1-inch pieces.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
5. Serve with your favorite sauce and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Marinara
Elevate your comfort food game with this simple yet satisfying recipe. Cheesy baked gnocchi smothered in rich marinara sauce is the perfect dish for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package of gnocchi
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions until slightly tender.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked gnocchi, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, marinara sauce, and olive oil. Toss until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese if desired.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Gnocchi with Asparagus
Elevate your pasta game with this bright and flavorful dish, combining the natural sweetness of asparagus with the tanginess of lemon and herbs. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Add garlic and parsley to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add lemon juice to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked gnocchi with the asparagus mixture and top with Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Thyme Gnocchi
Elevate your gnocchi game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the deep flavors of caramelized onions and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cooked potato, mashed
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Caramelize onions: Cook sliced onions in olive oil over low heat for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown. Season with salt.
3. Make gnocchi dough: Combine flour, mashed potato, whole milk, and egg in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
4. Add caramelized onions and thyme: Fold cooked onions and chopped thyme into the dough.
5. Roll out dough: Divide dough into 4 equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope, then cut into 1-inch pieces.
6. Cook gnocchi: Boil in salted water for 3-5 minutes or until floating to the surface. Serve with your favorite sauce.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Caprese Style Gnocchi with Mozzarella
A creative twist on the classic Caprese salad, this recipe combines tender gnocchi with melted mozzarella cheese and fresh basil for a delightful Italian-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions or until they float to the surface.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mozzarella cheese and cook until melted and slightly golden.
3. Remove the gnocchi from the boiling water with a slotted spoon and add them to the pan with the melted mozzarella. Toss gently to combine.
4. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Gnocchi
Experience the bold flavors of Italy with this Spicy Arrabbiata Gnocchi recipe, featuring soft and pillowy gnocchi tossed in a spicy tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine flours, egg, and salt in a bowl. Gradually add milk and Parmesan cheese until a dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes.
3. Divide dough into 4 portions. Roll each portion into a long rope. Cut into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
4. Boil gnocchi for 3-5 minutes or until they float. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Add crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes (if using), and cooked gnocchi. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
7. Season with salt and serve hot, garnished with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter
Celebrate the flavors of autumn with this comforting and flavorful dish, featuring sweet potato gnocchi tossed in a rich sage butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Sage butter (recipe below)
– Fresh sage leaves, chopped (optional)
Sage Butter:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, and salt.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope.
4. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
6. Remove cooked gnocchi with a slotted spoon and drain excess water.
7. Toss gnocchi with sage butter (see below).
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini and Corn Gnocchi
This recipe combines the sweetness of corn and zucchini with the comfort of homemade gnocchi. Perfect for a quick summer dinner or as a side dish, these little pillows of goodness are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg
– Salt, to taste
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook zucchinis and corn in boiling water until tender. Drain and puree in a blender or food processor.
3. In a large bowl, combine flours, egg, and salt. Add the zucchini-corn mixture and mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, then cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces.
5. Cook gnocchi in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
6. Drain and serve with your favorite sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Gnocchi
This comforting pasta dish combines the natural sweetness of broccoli with the richness of cheddar cheese, all wrapped up in a soft and pillowy gnocchi package. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potato gnocchi
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a large saucepan, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until thickened.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and combined with the sauce.
5. Combine cooked gnocchi and broccoli mixture into the cheese sauce. Toss until coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Style Gnocchi with Feta
Inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean, this recipe combines soft gnocchi with a tangy feta cheese sauce and fresh herbs for a unique and delicious twist on traditional Italian comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked and mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, flour, and salt.
3. Add milk and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into small squares or shapes.
6. Cook gnocchi in boiling water for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. In a separate saucepan, melt feta cheese with olive oil and garlic over medium heat.
8. Add cooked gnocchi to the saucepan and toss to combine.
9. Garnish with parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado Pesto Gnocchi
Transform your pasta game with this innovative recipe that combines the richness of avocado and the zest of pesto into tender, pillowy gnocchi. This unique dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 cup cooked potatoes (cooled)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cooled potatoes, flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Roll out each part into a long rope.
4. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi.
5. Place the gnocchi on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with pesto sauce and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Gnocchi
This recipe combines the creamy richness of goat cheese with the sweet, smoky flavor of roasted red peppers, all wrapped up in a light and fluffy gnocchi. Perfect for a cozy dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup (60ml) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup (60g) goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 roasted red peppers, peeled and chopped (see roasting instructions below)
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and mash.
3. In a bowl, combine mashed potatoes, flour, goat cheese, and roasted red peppers. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and roll each into a long rope.
5. Cut the ropes into 1-inch (2.5cm) pieces to form gnocchi.
6. Cook gnocchi in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, or until they float. Drain and serve.
Roasting Instructions:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place red peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered. Peel off skin, then chop flesh into small pieces.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Gnocchi with Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of homemade gnocchi with the bright flavors of fresh herbs and sweet cherry tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt, to taste
– 10-12 cherry tomatoes, halved
– Extra virgin olive oil, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and basil. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough into long ropes, about 1/4 inch thick. Cut into 1-inch pieces.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they release their juices.
6. Serve cooked gnocchi with cherry tomatoes and extra virgin olive oil.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Artichoke and Spinach Gnocchi
Experience the essence of Italy with this creamy, comforting dish featuring artichoke and spinach gnocchi. This unique recipe combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with a touch of Italian flair.
Ingredients:
– 2 large artichokes, peeled and chopped
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
– Olive oil, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine chopped artichoke, spinach, flour, semolina flour, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope.
4. Cut the ropes into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces to form gnocchi.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi for 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface.
6. Drain and serve with your favorite sauce, topped with olive oil and Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Wine and Garlic Gnocchi
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of gnocchi with the brightness of white wine and garlic, making for a perfect springtime meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potato gnocchi
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the white wine to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the liquid has almost completely reduced.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and add the cooked gnocchi. Toss gently to coat the gnocchi in the garlicky white wine sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Alfredo Gnocchi with Cashew Cream
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy vegan take on the classic Alfredo sauce, made with cashew cream and served with tender gnocchi.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup semolina flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1/4 cup cashews
– 1/2 cup vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine flours, salt, and nutritional yeast.
3. Gradually add 1/4 cup of warm water, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Knead for 5 minutes, then roll out to 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., gnocchi).
6. Cook in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes or until they float.
7. Meanwhile, blend cashews, vegetable broth, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth.
8. Toss cooked gnocchi with cashew cream sauce and garnish with parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get creative with these 20 delicious vegetarian gnocchi recipes! From classic combinations like creamy spinach and ricotta to bold flavors like spicy arrabbiata, there’s something for every taste. Try pairing roasted tomato and basil with garlic butter mushroom or caramelized onion and thyme. For a lighter option, opt for lemon herb gnocchi with asparagus or herbed gnocchi with cherry tomatoes. And don’t forget about the cheese lovers – cheesy baked gnocchi with marinara is sure to please. These innovative recipes will take your gnocchi game to the next level!
