Sometimes, a simple, healthy meal can feel like a warm hug after a long day—and that’s what this gnocchi with Brussels sprouts offers, with its delightful textures and flavors. On chilly evenings, when the world feels a tad overwhelming, this dish is a comfort you can count on. It’s surprising how a humble vegetable can transform a meal into something so satisfying.
Steps
- Begin by slicing the Brussels sprouts and roasting them in the oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes. Before roasting, coat them with olive oil, sea salt, and pepper.
- After the initial roasting, add red pepper flakes and diced lemon rind to the Brussels sprouts. Return them to the oven for an additional five minutes.
- Cook the gnocchi in boiling water until they float to the surface, then drain them. Be cautious not to overcook them during this step.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat, allowing it to brown slightly for a nutty flavor.
- Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the browned butter, stirring to coat them evenly.
- Mix in the roasted Brussels sprouts with the gnocchi and butter. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the mixture for added brightness.
- Just before serving, drizzle some balsamic vinegar over the dish and let it sit for about five minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Finish by topping the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, sliced
- Olive oil spray
- Sea salt
- Black pepper
- Red pepper flakes
- Zest of 1 lemon, grated
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Aged balsamic vinegar, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
FAQ
- Can I substitute honey with something else in this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute honey with a splash of aged balsamic vinegar to add sweetness and a touch of acidity.
- Do I need to cook the gnocchi before adding it to the dish?
- It is assumed that you cook the gnocchi prior to incorporating it into the dish.
- Can I roast Brussels sprouts instead of pan-frying them?
- Absolutely! Roasting the Brussels sprouts in the oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes, after slicing and seasoning them, works well. Adding red pepper flakes and lemon zest during the last 5 minutes enhances their flavor.
- What should I be careful about when cooking gnocchi?
- Be cautious not to overcook the gnocchi in the initial cooking phase, as this can affect its texture.
- Is there an additional seasoning I can add to enhance the dish?
- Adding lemon juice and balsamic vinegar towards the end of cooking, and topping with grated Parmesan, can enhance the dish’s overall flavor.
Tips
- Consider substituting honey with a splash of aged balsamic vinegar for an added sweetness and a touch of acidity.
- Roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven at 400°F for a crisp texture. Slice them, coat both sides with olive oil, and season with sea salt and pepper before roasting.
- Be cautious not to overcook the gnocchi initially to maintain the desired texture in the final dish.
- Enhance the flavor by grating lemon zest and tossing it with the Brussels sprouts before roasting, and squeeze half a lemon’s juice over the dish just before serving.
Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet (such as the Copco teak-handled cast iron skillet mentioned)
- Le Creuset Dish with Lid
