Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe

I can’t tell you how much I love this Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe — it’s one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and fresh at the same time. The gnocchi crisp up golden and crunchy on the outside but stay wonderfully pillowy inside, while the spinach brings a vibrant, earthy pop and the feta adds a salty, creamy finish. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting without a ton of fuss.

What makes this Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe really shine is how easy it is but still feels a little special. It works well as a main dish or a hearty side, and I’ve found it’s a great go-to whenever I’m craving something warm and satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, topping it off with crispy edges and melty feta just makes every bite a treat you won’t forget.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together so nicely because each brings a unique texture and flavor, creating a well-rounded, tasty dish. When shopping, look for fresh spinach that’s bright and crisp and a good-quality feta that’s crumbly and salty for that perfect punch.

• Gnocchi: I usually pick potato gnocchi from the refrigerated section—they tend to hold up best when frying for that crispy crust.
• Olive oil: Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for cooking; it adds a lovely richness and helps get that nice golden sear.
• Fresh spinach: Baby spinach works great here because it cooks quickly and remains tender without becoming too watery.
• Feta cheese: Crumbled feta brings a salty creaminess that balances the dish beautifully, so don’t skimp on it.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds an aromatic boost, making the whole dish more vibrant and flavorful.
• Salt: Just to taste, but remember that feta is salty, so start light and adjust later.
• Black pepper: Freshly ground pepper gives a nice mild heat and depth.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): I like adding these when I want a little kick; it’s a subtle heat that brightens the flavors without overwhelming them.

Variations

I’m all for making a recipe your own, and I often tweak this Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe depending on what I have in the fridge or my mood. Feel free to play around — it’s quite forgiving!

• Add mushrooms: I love sautéed mushrooms in this dish for an earthier flavor and a meaty texture, especially in the fall.
• Make it vegan: Swap feta for a tangy vegan cheese or nutritional yeast and use a plant-based oil to keep it dairy-free but still rich.
• Use kale instead of spinach: For a bit more chew and a hearty green, kale works well, but be sure to cook it a bit longer before adding gnocchi.
• Spice it up more: If you’re like me and love some heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
• Add lemon zest: For a fresh, bright note, sprinkle some lemon zest over the finished dish — it lifts all the flavors effortlessly.

How to Make Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Crisp the Gnocchi

Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil warms, lightly pat your gnocchi dry if they’re too moist—this helps get that crispy crust without splattering oil. Add the gnocchi in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, and let them cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes. Then, toss or flip and repeat until all sides are golden and crisp, roughly 8-10 minutes total. This step really makes the dish with a wonderful crunchy exterior and soft inside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Spinach

Once your gnocchi is crisped, push it to the side of the pan and add the minced garlic. Let it cook for just about 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t burn it! Then, toss in the fresh spinach and sauté until it wilts down, which usually takes 2-3 minutes. I like to stir gently to combine everything but be careful not to smoosh the gnocchi too much.

Step 3: Add Feta and Season

Turn off the heat, then crumble the feta cheese over the hot gnocchi and spinach. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Give everything a gentle toss to combine—the warmth will soften the feta slightly, making it creamy and tangy. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning as needed. This finishing touch brings the whole dish together.

How to Serve Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe

Garnishes

I find a sprinkle of extra crumbled feta or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice is the perfect garnish to this dish. Sometimes I also add a handful of toasted pine nuts for a bit of crunch and nuttiness. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil are lovely too—they add a pop of color and freshness that makes the dish feel even more vibrant.

Side Dishes

This crispy gnocchi dish pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp salad—think arugula with a lemon vinaigrette—or a simple soup to start. I’ve also served it alongside roasted veggies for an easy, well-rounded meal. If you want to keep things indulgent, some crusty garlic bread is never a bad idea!

Creative Ways to Present

For a special dinner, I like to plate this recipe in individual shallow bowls and dot the top with edible flowers or microgreens. It’s such a fun way to elevate the look without complicating the dish. You can also serve it family-style on a warmed platter garnished with lemon wedges and extra feta crumbles—it always sparks conversation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop them in the fridge right away. The crispy gnocchi will soften a bit overnight, but the flavors deepen, which I actually enjoy. Just make sure to eat them within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

Freezing is a bit tricky with crispy gnocchi because the texture changes, but if you want to freeze leftovers, spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and then crisp them up again in a hot pan before adding spinach and feta.

Reheating

To bring back some of that crispiness, I always reheat leftover gnocchi in a skillet with a splash of olive oil over medium heat instead of the microwave. This method revives the outside crunch and warms the spinach and feta perfectly without making the gnocchi soggy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe holds a special place in my weeknight dinner rotation because it’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Cooking it feels like a little celebration, especially when you get that perfect golden crust on the gnocchi. I honestly can’t recommend it enough if you want a meal that feels cozy but fresh, easy but impressive. Give it a try—I’m pretty sure it’ll become one of your new favorites too.

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