Speedy One-Pan Gnocchi with Ricotta and Sundried Tomatoes

Crafting a flavourful and satisfying supper in under 30 minutes is an entirely achievable goal with recipes like this. Our one-pan gnocchi dish is meticulously designed for maximum efficiency, allowing you to cook the gnocchi directly in the sauce while preparing the creamy ricotta. This streamlined method eliminates the need to boil gnocchi separately, significantly reducing active kitchen time and washing up. The rich intensity of sundried tomatoes blends beautifully with aromatic garlic, forming a robust foundation for a comforting meal. It’s the perfect solution for busy evenings, balancing exquisite taste with effortless practicality, proving that wholesome home cooking doesn’t need to be time-consuming.

Quick Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Serves: 2

Ingredients

• 8.8 oz (250g) fresh potato gnocchi (the type that doesn’t require pre-boiling)
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 2.1 oz (60g) sundried tomatoes in oil, drained and coarsely chopped
• 6.8 fl oz (200ml) passata
• 5.1 fl oz (150ml) vegetable stock
• 2.1 oz (60g) fresh baby spinach
• 4.4 oz (125g) fresh ricotta
• 1.1 oz (30g) grated Parmesan (or similar hard cheese)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• A pinch of chilli flakes (optional)
• A few fresh basil leaves, to garnish (optional)

Method

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large frying pan over a medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped sundried tomatoes, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
2. Stir in the passata, vegetable stock, and chilli flakes (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and let it bubble for about 5 minutes to allow the flavours to combine.
3. Add the gnocchi directly into the sauce. Stir gently and cook for 3-4 minutes, or according to package instructions, until the gnocchi are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Add the fresh baby spinach to the pan, stirring until it wilts, which usually takes 1-2 minutes.
5. Remove the pan from the heat. Gently stir in the ricotta and grated Parmesan, mixing until well distributed and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serving & Leftovers

Serve the gnocchi immediately whilst hot, garnishing with fresh basil if desired. This dish is excellent on its own or accompanied by a simple green salad. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a tablespoon of vegetable stock and gently warm through in a frying pan over a low heat or in the microwave.

Nutrition

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients and portions.

One Last Thing

Embracing a structured approach, even for speedy meals, reduces kitchen stress and enriches your cooking experience. This SmartKitchen30 recipe demonstrates how minimal planning yields exquisite results. Enjoy efficient, delicious daily cooking that fosters balanced, stress-free routines.