Name: Lemon and Basil Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Potato Gnocchi: 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade); Sauce: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: red pepper flakes for a hint of heat

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Prepare to fall in love with the Lemon and Basil Gnocchi Recipe—a vibrant, sunshine-filled dish that tastes like summer in a bowl. Pillowy potato gnocchi get a golden kiss in garlicky, buttery olive oil, then are tossed with fresh lemon zest, juice, and plenty of basil for a meal that’s nothing short of zesty, fragrant perfection. Finished with melty Parmesan, this quick vegetarian dinner is truly crave-worthy. Whether you’re craving comfort or looking to brighten up your weeknight, this gnocchi will be your new go-to.

Lemon and Basil Gnocchi Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how effortlessly impressive this Lemon and Basil Gnocchi Recipe can be with just a few pantry staples and grocery store gems. Each ingredient has a starring role, building layers of flavor, aroma, and color that make this dish pop without any fuss.

Potato gnocchi: These pillowy dumplings are the backbone of the recipe—store-bought or homemade, they deliver tender comfort in every bite.
Unsalted butter: Adds a luxurious richness to the sauce, balancing the citrus tang beautifully.
Olive oil: Lends a fruity, peppery note and ensures an extra-silky, non-greasy finish when combined with the butter.
Garlic: Fresh and fragrant, it creates that irresistible aroma and subtle warmth in every forkful.
Lemon zest and juice: This dynamic duo brings zippy brightness and aromatic complexity—only fresh lemon will do.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Savory, nutty, and melty, Parmesan forms the backbone of the luscious sauce.
Fresh basil: Chopped and stirred in at the last minute, basil brings a burst of color and summery, herbaceous flavor.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that let all the fresh flavors shine while rounding out the taste.
Optional red pepper flakes: For those who like a little heat, these elevate the gnocchi with a gentle kick without overpowering the gentler notes.

How to Make Lemon and Basil Gnocchi Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil; don’t skimp on the salt, as it’s your only chance to season the gnocchi from within. Add the gnocchi to the water and cook until they float to the surface—this usually takes just 2 to 3 minutes. Drain them gently and set aside. Floating equals fluffy, perfectly cooked dumplings!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While the gnocchi cook, heat the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter melts and the mixture is shimmering (but not browning), add the minced garlic. Stir constantly for about a minute until the kitchen smells amazing, but stop before the garlic gets too golden—burnt garlic can turn the whole dish bitter.

Step 3: Crisp and Toss the Gnocchi

Add your drained gnocchi straight into the garlicky butter-oil bath. Let them sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is magic—the gnocchi turn lightly golden and crispy on the outside while staying pillow-soft inside. It’s a tiny touch that makes the Lemon and Basil Gnocchi Recipe extra special.

Step 4: Brighten with Lemon and Cheese

Toss in the fresh lemon zest and juice, allowing them to sizzle and perfume the pan. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir gently—the cheese will melt, joining with the butter and olive oil to coat every gnocchi in a silky, citrusy sauce. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a little sparkle of heat.

Step 5: Finish with Basil

Right before serving, turn off the heat and gently fold in the chopped fresh basil. Don’t skip this! Stirring basil in at the very end helps capture its fragrant oils and keeps the leaves bright green, making the Lemon and Basil Gnocchi Recipe impossibly fresh and inviting.

How to Serve Lemon and Basil Gnocchi Recipe

Garnishes

For the best finishing touch, shower your gnocchi with a flurry of extra grated Parmesan and a few whole basil leaves. A crack of fresh black pepper or an extra sprinkle of lemon zest is pure joy. If you love a little fire, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds irresistible color and flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish is delightfully complete on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette or a side of grilled vegetables. For a heartier meal, try serving it alongside roasted or grilled chicken, or even some seared salmon. The bright flavors of the Lemon and Basil Gnocchi Recipe play well with almost anything.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your gnocchi in shallow pasta bowls, piled high for maximum coziness. You can also nestle the gnocchi in a wide platter and scatter microgreens or edible flowers for a stunning, Instagram-worthy centerpiece. For casual gatherings, consider placing the skillet right at the table for family-style sharing—everyone will love scooping up those lemony, herby nuggets.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Lemon and Basil Gnocchi Recipe, simply cool the gnocchi to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to three days—though they’re so delicious, leftovers might be rare!

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked gnocchi. Arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the gnocchi gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to loosen the sauce. Stir just until heated through, and finish with fresh basil and lemon zest to revive that signature pop!

FAQs

Can I use homemade gnocchi instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi are soft and pillowy, making the Lemon and Basil Gnocchi Recipe even more delightful. Just be sure your homemade version is sturdy enough to sauté without falling apart, and boil until they float before finishing them in the skillet as directed.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano is a wonderfully tangy substitute that melts just as beautifully. For a vegetarian or dairy-free twist, try a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or a favorite vegan Parmesan alternative to keep the flavors bright and cheesy.

How can I make this recipe creamier?

If you’re craving a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or stir in a generous dollop of ricotta when you add the Parmesan. The lemon cuts through the richness, keeping the Lemon and Basil Gnocchi Recipe light and luxurious all at once.

Can I add extra vegetables or protein?

Certainly! Asparagus tips, baby spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes are great additions. For protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy chickpeas work wonders alongside the bright, tangy flavors of the gnocchi.

Is the Lemon and Basil Gnocchi Recipe gluten-free?

Most store-bought gnocchi contain wheat, but many brands now offer gluten-free options—just check the label. If you make homemade gnocchi with gluten-free flour, you can easily adapt this recipe for gluten-free diners.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about how quick and vibrant this Lemon and Basil Gnocchi Recipe comes together—perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with very little fuss. I hope you’ll make it soon and discover just how much joy a bowl of golden gnocchi tossed with lemon and basil can bring. Give it a try and let your tastebuds celebrate!

Lemon and Basil Gnocchi Recipe

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4.5 from 11 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Lemon and Basil Gnocchi recipe is a delightful combination of pillowy gnocchi sautéed in a lemony Parmesan sauce with fresh basil. It’s a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Potato Gnocchi:

1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade);

Sauce:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: red pepper flakes for a hint of heat

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Instructions

Cook Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the top, about 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Make Sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden.
Finish Dish: Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese, tossing until the gnocchi is well coated and the cheese has melted into a light sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil just before serving.
Serve: Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan if desired.