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Summer Skillet Gnocchi with Burst Cherry Tomato Sauce Recipe

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3.9 from 6 reviews

Summer Skillet Gnocchi with Burst Cherry Tomato Sauce is a quick and flavorful weeknight dish featuring tender gnocchi tossed in a vibrant sauce of burst cherry tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, and melted mozzarella pearls. This recipe highlights fresh, summery ingredients cooked simply in a cast-iron skillet for a comforting yet light meal.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Produce

  • 3 pints cherry tomatoes
  • 2–3 plump garlic cloves, chopped (3 used)
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish

Pantry

  • 3 Tbsp. olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes
  • 1 pound shelf-stable gnocchi

Dairy

  • 1 cup mozzarella pearls (small bocconcini)

Instructions

  1. Heat Oil and Garlic: In a 12-inch cast-iron skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and cook until softened and fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
  2. Add Tomatoes: Place the cherry tomatoes in the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to burst and lose their round shape, forming the base of the sauce.
  3. Prepare Gnocchi: While the tomatoes cook, boil or cook the gnocchi according to the package directions until just tender.
  4. Add Gnocchi to Skillet: Transfer the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the burst tomatoes. Stir and cook until the gnocchi is heated through and well coated in the tomato sauce.
  5. Season and Add Basil: Stir in most of the fresh basil leaves and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
  6. Add Mozzarella: Add the mozzarella pearls to the skillet and stir gently just until they begin to melt, creating a gooey and creamy texture.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with the remaining fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh, summery skillet gnocchi!

Notes

  • Use a cast-iron skillet for even cooking and enhanced flavor development.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for desired spiciness.
  • Shelf-stable gnocchi can be found in most grocery stores; fresh gnocchi may be substituted but may require adjusted cooking times.
  • For a richer dish, a drizzle of balsamic glaze can be added before serving.
  • Make sure to stir gently after adding mozzarella to avoid breaking the pearls completely.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://monicarecipes.com/summer-skillet-gnocchi-with-burst-cherry-tomato-sauce-recipe/