Toasted gnocchi with mushrooms is a delightful experience for the tastebuds. This recipe combines the soft, pillowy texture of gnocchi with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, all brought together by a rich buttery garlic sauce and a sprinkle of fresh basil and parmesan. It's an easy yet sophisticated dish that is sure to impress.
The ingredients for this recipe are generally available in most supermarkets. However, you might need to look in the international aisle or at a specialty store for gnocchi, an Italian dumpling made from potatoes. Two types of mushrooms are used in this recipe - baby bella and shiitake, which add a unique depth of flavor. If you can't find these specific varieties, feel free to substitute with other types of mushrooms.
Ingredients for Toasted Gnocchi with Mushrooms
Potato gnocchi: These are small, soft dumplings made from potato. Gnocchi have a unique texture that's slightly chewy and very satisfying.
Baby bella mushrooms: They are a type of brown mushroom, which are firmer and have a more earthy flavor compared to the white button mushrooms.
Shiitake mushrooms: Shiitake mushrooms are native to East Asia. They're known for their smoky flavor and meaty texture.
Butter: Used to sauté the gnocchi and mushrooms, it adds a rich and creamy flavor to the dish.
Garlic: This is an aromatic ingredient that gives the dish a strong and spicy flavor.
Dry white wine: It’s used to deglaze the pan and adds a subtle acidity to balance the flavors.
Basil leaves: Fresh basil leaves add a hint of sweetness and a fresh taste to the dish.
Parmesan cheese: This is a hard, granular cheese that adds a salty and nutty taste to the dish.
One reader, Chlo Duke says:
This toasted gnocchi with mushrooms recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and savory, and the gnocchi has the perfect crispy texture. The combination of mushrooms, garlic, and parmesan creates a delightful umami taste. It's a quick and easy dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. Highly recommended!
Cooking Techniques for Toasted Gnocchi with Mushrooms
Cooking the Gnocchi: Boil the gnocchi in a large stockpot of generously-salted boiling water according to the package directions, then drain and set aside.
Sautéing the Mushrooms: In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are soft and slightly browned.
Toasting the Gnocchi: Add the cooked gnocchi and garlic to the sautéed mushrooms and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is fragrant and the gnocchi is lightly toasted and browned around the edges.
Reducing the Wine: Carefully add the wine to the pan and stir the mixture. Continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes, until the wine has reduced by half.
Incorporating the Basil and Parmesan: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the fresh basil and parmesan until combined.
Serving: Serve the toasted gnocchi with mushrooms immediately, garnished with extra parmesan if desired.
Mushroom gnocchi is the comfort food you never knew you needed. This meatless Italian dish only takes 30 minutes to cook and prepare. This recipe is best for an easy romantic dinner for two . So make sure to add this dish to your dinner menu and impress your loved one!
How To Make Toasted Gnocchi with Mushrooms
An incredible pasta dish that has an exquisite texture and meaty flavor that it’s hard to believe that this mushroom gnocchi dish doesn’t have any meat!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbpotato gnocchi,homemade or store-bought (uncooked)
- 8ozbaby bella,sliced (or white button mushrooms)
- 8ozshiitake mushrooms,sliced
- 3tbspbutter
- 3clovesgarlic,minced
- ⅔cupdry white wine
- ½cupbasil leaves,loosely packed, julienned (or roughly-chopped)
- ½cupParmesan cheese,freshly grated, plus extra for serving
Instructions
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Cook gnocchi according to package directions in a large stockpot of generously-salted boiling water. Drain, and set aside.
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Meanwhile, as the gnocchi is cooking, melt the butter in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are soft and slightly browned.
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Then add in the cooked gnocchi and garlic and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is fragrant and the gnocchi is lightly toasted and browned around the edges.
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Carefully add in the wine, and give the mixture a good stir. Continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes, until the wine has reduced by half.
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Remove pan from the heat, stir in the fresh basil and Parmesan until combined.
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Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition
- Calories: 1263.31kcal
- Fat: 48.39g
- Saturated Fat: 30.13g
- Trans Fat: 0.35g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 13.44g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.27g
- Carbohydrates: 106.22g
- Fiber: 4.34g
- Sugar: 60.63g
- Protein: 60.78g
- Cholesterol: 145.95mg
- Sodium: 2300.18mg
- Calcium: 1896.22mg
- Potassium: 1008.52mg
- Iron: 5.26mg
- Vitamin A: 453.46µg
- Vitamin C: 20.83mg
Pro Tip for Perfectly Toasted Gnocchi
When toasting the gnocchi, it's important to let them sit undisturbed for a minute or two between stirs. This allows them to develop a nice, golden crust. Also, using a non-stick pan can help prevent the gnocchi from sticking and tearing. For the mushrooms, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. If the mushrooms are too close together, they will steam instead of sauté, preventing them from getting that desirable crispy texture. Lastly, when adding the wine, do it slowly and be careful as it can flare up.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Toasted Gnocchi with Mushrooms
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and prepare the necessary components in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that can be cooked in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and save time.
Batch cooking: Prepare larger quantities of certain ingredients or dishes and store them for future use, reducing the need for frequent cooking sessions.
Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils, preventing unnecessary time spent searching.
Substitute Ingredients For Toasted Gnocchi with Mushrooms Recipe
potato gnocchi - Substitute with ricotta gnocchi: Ricotta gnocchi has a lighter texture and a slightly different flavor, which can add a unique twist to the dish.
baby bella mushrooms - Substitute with cremini mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms have a similar earthy flavor and texture to baby bella mushrooms, making them a suitable substitute.
shiitake mushrooms - Substitute with oyster mushrooms: Oyster mushrooms have a mild, delicate flavor and a tender texture, which can complement the dish as a substitute for shiitake mushrooms.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter and can add a different flavor profile to the dish.
dry white wine - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add depth of flavor and moisture to the dish, similar to dry white wine.
basil leaves - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can provide a fresh, herbaceous flavor similar to basil and can be used as a substitute in the recipe.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino cheese: Pecorino cheese has a similar salty and nutty flavor to parmesan and can be used as a substitute in the recipe.
Plating Ideas for Toasted Gnocchi with Mushrooms
Elevate the plating: When presenting this dish, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing arrangement. Use clean lines and minimalistic plating to showcase the beauty of the dish.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Introduce a variety of textures to the plate to add depth and complexity. Consider incorporating crispy elements to contrast with the softness of the gnocchi and mushrooms.
Highlight the earthy colors: Emphasize the natural, earthy tones of the mushrooms and gnocchi. Use a neutral-colored plate to allow the rich browns and creamy whites of the dish to stand out.
Utilize fresh herbs for garnish: Add a pop of color and freshness to the dish by garnishing with vibrant, fresh basil leaves. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a hint of aromatic freshness to the overall presentation.
Emphasize the wine reduction: Use a brush to delicately paint a streak of the reduced wine sauce on the plate. This technique will add a touch of sophistication and elevate the overall presentation.
Incorporate Parmesan shavings: Instead of simply sprinkling Parmesan on top, consider using a vegetable peeler to create delicate Parmesan shavings. These shavings can be strategically placed to add a touch of elegance to the dish.
Consider the plate shape: Choose a plate with a unique shape or design that complements the rustic yet refined nature of the dish. The plate should enhance the overall presentation without overshadowing the star ingredients.
Balance the composition: Pay attention to the balance of the elements on the plate. Aim for a harmonious composition that draws the eye and creates a sense of anticipation for the diners.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Toasted Gnocchi
Large stockpot: A large pot used for boiling water and cooking pasta, gnocchi, and other ingredients in large quantities.
Sauté pan: A wide, flat-bottomed pan with relatively tall sides, used for sautéing, searing, and frying foods.
Wooden spoon: A kitchen utensil used for stirring, mixing, and serving, especially when working with nonstick cookware or delicate ingredients.
Grater: A kitchen tool used to grate cheese, vegetables, and other foods into fine pieces.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations or holes used to drain liquids from food, such as pasta or vegetables.
Chefs knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for slicing, chopping, and dicing a variety of ingredients.
Cutting board: A durable board used as a surface for cutting and preparing food.
Measuring cup: A kitchen tool used to measure liquid or dry ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: A set of spoons used to measure small amounts of ingredients accurately.
Grater: A kitchen tool used to grate cheese, vegetables, and other foods into fine pieces.
Garlic press: A kitchen tool used to crush garlic cloves efficiently and extract the pulp.
Cheese grater: A kitchen tool specifically designed for grating cheese into fine shreds.
Serving platter: A large, flat dish used for serving food, such as the finished toasted gnocchi with mushrooms.
Storing and Freezing Toasted Gnocchi with Mushrooms
- To store leftover toasted gnocchi with mushrooms, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When reheating, add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to help moisten the gnocchi and prevent it from drying out. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the cooled toasted gnocchi with mushrooms. Transfer the dish to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat frozen gnocchi, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, reheat the dish in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth to help reconstitute the sauce and prevent the gnocchi from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.
- If you plan on freezing the dish, consider slightly undercooking the gnocchi to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated. This will help maintain a better texture after thawing and reheating.
- When freezing, you may want to portion the toasted gnocchi with mushrooms into individual servings for easier thawing and reheating. This allows you to reheat only what you need without having to thaw the entire batch.
How To Reheat Leftover Gnocchi and Mushrooms
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover toasted gnocchi with mushrooms in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the gnocchi from drying out.
For a quicker option, you can use a microwave. Transfer the leftover gnocchi and mushrooms to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on high power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the dish is heated through. The damp paper towel will help to keep the gnocchi moist.
If you prefer a crispy texture, you can reheat the gnocchi in a skillet. Melt a small amount of butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover gnocchi and mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method will give you a texture similar to when the dish was freshly prepared.
For a more flavorful twist, you can add some extra garlic, herbs, or parmesan cheese to the dish while reheating. This will help to refresh the flavors and make the leftovers taste like a new meal.
If you have a lot of leftovers, you can also consider transforming them into a new dish. For example, you can use the leftover gnocchi and mushrooms as a filling for a frittata or as a topping for a pizza. Get creative and experiment with different ideas to make the most out of your leftovers.
Interesting Trivia About Gnocchi and Mushrooms
Gnocchi is a traditional Italian dish that is made from potatoes and flour. It is believed to have originated in the northern regions of Italy and has been a popular comfort food for centuries.
Budget-Friendly: Making Toasted Gnocchi at Home
This toasted gnocchi with mushrooms recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as potato gnocchi, mushrooms, garlic, and parmesan cheese, are generally affordable and widely available. The addition of white wine may slightly increase the cost, but it's not a significant expense. The dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying meal for the family. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its taste, simplicity, and affordability. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25.
Is This Gnocchi Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This toasted gnocchi with mushrooms recipe is a delightful blend of flavors, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few ingredients. The dish is high in carbohydrates from the potato gnocchi, and the butter and parmesan cheese add saturated fat and sodium to the meal. However, the mushrooms provide a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while the garlic and basil offer some health benefits.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap regular potato gnocchi for whole wheat or cauliflower gnocchi to increase fiber and reduce carbohydrates
- Reduce the amount of butter used, or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil
- Use low-fat parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast to minimize saturated fat and sodium content
- Increase the proportion of mushrooms to gnocchi for a more balanced meal
- Add more vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to boost the nutrient profile
- Use low-sodium vegetable broth instead of white wine to reduce alcohol and sodium intake
By incorporating these changes, you can transform this tasty gnocchi dish into a more nutritious and well-rounded meal that still satisfies your taste buds.
Editor's Opinion: Toasted Gnocchi with Mushrooms Recipe Review
This toasted gnocchi with mushrooms recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The earthy mushrooms and tender gnocchi are perfectly complemented by the aromatic garlic, fresh basil, and nutty parmesan. The addition of dry white wine adds a lovely depth of flavor to the dish. The toasting of the gnocchi adds a wonderful crispy texture, making each bite a delightful experience. This dish is simple to prepare yet impressively delicious, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner at home or a special gathering with friends. Buon appetito!
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Why trust this Toasted Gnocchi with Mushrooms Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful meal experience, as it features potato gnocchi cooked to perfection and complemented by a flavorful mix of baby bella and shiitake mushrooms. The addition of butter and garlic infuses rich, aromatic notes, while the dry white wine adds depth to the dish. Fresh basil leaves and parmesan cheese elevate the flavors, promising a satisfying and indulgent culinary journey. Trust in the quality and expertise behind this recipe, and savor the delicious outcome it promises.
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