Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the gnocchi with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Make sure every piece is well coated.
- Spread the gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
- While the gnocchi is roasting, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced garlic and optional chili flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the cherry tomatoes and 1/4 teaspoon salt, cooking for about 6–8 minutes, gently shaking the pan, until the tomatoes burst and become jammy. Remove from heat.
- To make basil oil, blend the fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup olive oil, and a pinch of salt until smooth and vibrant green. Set aside.
- Once the gnocchi is beautifully roasted, transfer them to a serving plate. Spoon the burst tomatoes over the top.
- Tear the burrata and nestle it among the gnocchi.
- Drizzle generous amounts of the basil oil over everything, and finish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of black pepper.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to plate and pair
To make this dish even more enticing, consider how you present it! Arrange the crispy gnocchi on a large, shallow plate, and be generous with the tomatoes and burrata. Fresh basil leaves can be scattered delicately on top for color. Serve with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices. A glass of Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir goes beautifully with this dish, enhancing the flavors of the meal.
Storage and reheating tips
Have leftovers? Here’s how to keep them fresh! Store any uneaten gnocchi and burst tomatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the gnocchi may lose some crispiness during storage. To reheat, you can pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain some of that delightful crunch. If you want to store any portion for a longer time, consider freezing the gnocchi before cooking them; once cooked, they are best enjoyed fresh.
Helpful cooking tips
- Get creative with herbs: If you don’t have fresh basil, try using parsley or even mint for a different flavor profile.
- Cook smarter: If you are short on time, use pre-made basil pesto instead of making the basil oil from scratch.
- Flavor boost: Try adding a splash of balsamic glaze or sprinkle of parmesan cheese right before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe based on your preferences! You could swap out the cherry tomatoes for blistered bell peppers or use different kinds of cheese. If you need a vegan option, replace the burrata with tofu or a nut-based cheese. You can even jazz it up with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or asparagus. The possibilities are endless, and each variation brings something new to your table!
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Prep and cook time take about 40–50 minutes in total, making it an excellent option for a delicious weeknight meal.
Can I freeze leftover gnocchi?
Yes! Uncooked gnocchi can be frozen. However, once cooked, the texture might change slightly when reheated.
What if I can’t find burrata?
If you can’t get burrata, whole-milk mozzarella or ricotta provides a wonderful alternative. Just ensure it’s creamy enough for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
With its balance of textures and flavors, this dish is bound to charm everyone at your table. Happy cooking!
