Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi

Name: Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound of potatoes; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 large egg; Salt to taste; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Every Sunday, I look forward to creating something special in the kitchen, and this Tomato Basil Gnocchi is my go-to dish. The aroma of fresh basil mixing with rich tomato sauce fills my home, making it feel like a cozy Italian kitchen. With gnocchi's delightful texture and the simplicity of the ingredients, I know this will be a hit with family and friends alike. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a Sunday dinner, bringing both comfort and flavor to the table in under an hour.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:01:31.410Z

As I experimented with this Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi, I realized that the secret lies in choosing the freshest ingredients. Quality tomatoes, bright green basil, and a sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano made all the difference in terms of flavor. Cooking the gnocchi to just the right texture is essential, so I always keep an eye on them as they float to the surface of the boiling water.

Another tip I've found helpful is to let the gnocchi rest in the sauce for a few minutes before serving. This allows them to soak up the flavors beautifully. Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste that perfectly encapsulates the essence of a pleasant Sunday dinner. Trust me, this will become a favorite in your household!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh basil that brightens up every bite
Gnocchi that’s delightfully pillowy and soft
A comforting dish that’s perfect for family gatherings

      

Mastering the Gnocchi

When making gnocchi, the choice of potatoes plays a crucial role in achieving the light, fluffy texture that characterizes this dish. Opt for starchy varieties like Russets, as they yield a drier dough, reducing the need for excessive flour. After boiling, allow the potatoes to cool briefly before peeling and mashing them. This will help steam escape, further preventing a soggy mixture. Take care not to overwork the dough; a gentle touch ensures a tender bite.

Shaping each gnocchi correctly is key to both presentation and texture. After rolling the dough into ropes, use a knife to cut them into half-inch pieces. To create grooves, press each piece against the back of a fork. This not only helps sauce adhere better but also gives the gnocchi that classic Italian appearance. Don’t rush this step; even consistency in size will ensure even cooking.

Building the Sauce

Using fresh cherry tomatoes in the sauce adds a burst of sweetness that complements the gnocchi beautifully. Look for tomatoes that are vibrantly colored and firm to the touch. As they cook, they will break down and meld with the garlic and basil, creating a sauce that's both flavorful and aromatic. The small size of cherry tomatoes means they’ll cook relatively quickly—about 5-7 minutes—so be ready to turn down the heat as they start to soften.

Don’t shy away from adjusting the seasoning as the sauce simmers. Taste periodically; a pinch of salt can enhance the sweetness of the tomatoes and bring out the aromatic qualities of the basil. If desired, a splash of balsamic vinegar can add depth to the flavor profile, giving the sauce a sophisticated twist without overwhelming the dish. Always aim for a balance between sweetness and acidity.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

For the Gnocchi

1 pound of potatoes
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg
Salt to taste

For the Sauce

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your gnocchi:

Prepare the Gnocchi

Boil the potatoes until tender. Once cooled, peel and mash them until smooth. Mix in the flour, egg, and salt until a dough forms.

Roll the dough into long ropes and cut into small pieces, shaping them with a fork for grooves.

Cook the Gnocchi

In a large pot of salted boiling water, add the gnocchi. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the top. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until softened.

Stir in the chopped basil, salt, and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently to coat. Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Your Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi is now ready to be savored!

Pro Tips

If you're short on time, store-bought gnocchi can be a quick alternative. Additionally, feel free to mix in other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Making Ahead and Storing Gnocchi

If you're planning to prepare this dish in advance, freshly made gnocchi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep them from sticking, lightly dust the gnocchi with flour before placing them in an airtight container. If you want to freeze them, lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer before transferring them to a resealable bag. This prevents them from clumping together, and they can be cooked directly from frozen in boiling water without thawing.

When storing leftover sauce, keep it separate from the gnocchi to maintain texture. In the fridge, the sauce will last for about three days, and can be easily reheated on the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce seems too thick upon reheating, a splash of water or broth can help loosen it back to the desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

While this Tomato Basil Gnocchi is delicious on its own, consider serving it alongside a light side salad. A mix of arugula, lemon juice, and shaved Parmesan will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi. Additionally, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick that complements the overall flavors beautifully.

For a heartier meal, you can include some sautéed greens, like spinach or kale, tossed in olive oil and garlic. Not only do they add nutritional value, but their vibrant color also enhances the plate's visual appeal. Experiment with incorporating other seasonal vegetables into your sauce for additional flavors and textures based on what’s available.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze gnocchi?

Yes, you can freeze gnocchi before cooking them. Just lay them out on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.

→ What type of potatoes should I use?

Russet potatoes are ideal for making gnocchi since they are starchy and yield a fluffy texture.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can replace the egg with a flax egg or simply leave it out; just slightly adjust the flour to maintain consistency.

→ What can I serve with gnocchi?

A light salad or crusty bread pairs wonderfully with gnocchi, balancing the comforting flavors.