Are you craving a delicious, healthy meal that's also quick to prepare? Look no further! This gnocchi with shrimp recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a delightful weekend dinner. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that combines the soft pillowy texture of gnocchi with the delicate sweetness of shrimp, all tossed in a vibrant, flavorful sauce. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this easy-to-follow recipe! It’s one of those best recipes that's both satisfying and surprisingly healthy.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound gnocchi (potato gnocchi is recommended)
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package directions, usually about 2-3 minutes, until they float to the surface. Drain the gnocchi and set aside. Don't overcook – you want them to be tender but still hold their shape.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp and Garlic
While the gnocchi is cooking, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can impart a bitter taste.
Step 3: Add Shrimp and Wine (or Broth)
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. If using, pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the sauce to slightly reduce.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another minute until they soften slightly. Stir in the cooked gnocchi and fresh basil. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Tips for the Best Gnocchi with Shrimp:
- For extra flavor, use a high-quality olive oil.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when cooking the shrimp. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the dish.
- A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors.
- If you like a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp Gnocchi: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet along with the garlic for a spicy kick.
- Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Gnocchi: Increase the garlic to 3 cloves and add the zest and juice of half a lemon at the end.
- Gnocchi with Sausage and Shrimp: Add Italian sausage to the skillet along with the shrimp for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
This easy gnocchi with shrimp recipe is a perfect example of delicious and healthy homemade cooking, ideal for a quick dinner, and a great addition to your collection of easy recipes. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish! It’s truly one of the best recipes for a satisfying and quick weeknight meal.