Indulge in the comforting warmth and irresistible flavor of homemade gnocchi with brown butter and sage – a dish that's surprisingly quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. This simple yet elegant recipe elevates the humble potato dumpling to new heights, showcasing the nutty depth of browned butter and the fragrant herbaceousness of sage. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy preparations; this recipe prioritizes fresh, simple ingredients and straightforward steps for a truly satisfying culinary experience.
The rich, browned butter creates a luxuriously smooth sauce that perfectly complements the soft, pillowy texture of the gnocchi. The earthy aroma of sage adds a sophisticated touch, rounding out the flavors beautifully. Ready to transform simple ingredients into a memorable meal? Let's dive into the step-by-step process and create this delicious gnocchi dish together.
Tools Needed
- Large pan
- Slotted spoon
- Large frying pan
Ingredients
- Fresh Gnocchi: 500 grams (1.1 pounds)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: to taste
- Black Pepper: to taste
- Unsalted Butter: 75 grams (1/3 cup)
- Fresh Sage Leaves: 20
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Lemon: 1, zested and juiced (half a lemon used)
- Parmesan Cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Cook the Gnocchi
- Boil the gnocchi in a large pan of water until it floats. You may need to do this in batches.
- Remove the gnocchi with a slotted spoon and place in a bowl.
- Add olive oil to a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the gnocchi, salt, and pepper. Fry for 5-6 minutes until crispy.
- Remove the gnocchi and set aside. Don't worry about cleaning the pan completely.
Step 2. Make the Brown Butter Sage Sauce
- Add butter to the pan over medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes until light brown and nutty.
- Add sage leaves and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring often.
Step 3. Combine and Season
- Add the fried gnocchi to the pan, along with salt and pepper.
- Add lemon zest and half the lemon juice. Stir to combine.
Step 4. Serve
- Divide into bowls. Top with parmesan cheese and black pepper.
Read more: Sautéed White Beans with Garlic, Sage & Tomatoes: Easy Side Dish Recipe
Tips
- Using store-bought gnocchi is perfectly acceptable for this recipe.
- Don't be afraid of the amount of sage; its flavor mellows as it cooks in the butter.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Absolutely! This recipe works perfectly with store-bought gnocchi, saving you even more time. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. What if I don't have fresh sage?
Dried sage can be substituted, but use about 1/3 the amount. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
3. How do I prevent the butter from burning when browning it?
Use medium-low heat and keep a close eye on the butter. It will foam and then turn a light brown color. Remove it from the heat immediately once it reaches the desired color.
This quick and easy recipe proves that gourmet meals don't require hours in the kitchen. Enjoy the delightful combination of creamy gnocchi, nutty brown butter, and fragrant sage – a dish that's both satisfying and impressive. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with this simple yet elegant meal!