Impress your guests with this Italian gnocchi sorrentina recipe
Gnocchi sorrentina, a vegetarian and eggless delight from Italy's Sorrento region, combines tender gnocchi with a robust tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil, all baked to golden perfection. A comforting classic that encapsulates the essence of Italian cuisine, it has won hearts globally with its simple yet rich flavors and textures. Ready to bring Italy home? Let's start cooking!
Gather the following ingredients
For this traditional Italian dish, gather 500 grams of eggless potato gnocchi, 400 grams of canned crushed tomatoes, two minced cloves of garlic, 200 grams of diced mozzarella cheese, and a generous handful of fresh basil leaves. You'll also need two tablespoons of olive oil for cooking, and a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
Preparing the tomato sauce
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and saute until it becomes fragrant but not browned. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes until it thickens slightly. Tear half of the basil leaves and stir them into the sauce for added flavor.
Cooking the gnocchi
As the sauce simmers, fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil. Add the gnocchi and watch for them to float, a sign they're done, usually within two to three minutes. Once they rise to the surface, promptly remove and drain them thoroughly. This ensures your gnocchi will be perfectly prepared for the next stage of your sorrentina creation.
Combining ingredients
Heat your oven to 375 F. In an ovenproof dish, blend the cooked gnocchi with the savory tomato sauce, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Sprinkle the diced mozzarella across the top for a uniform layer. Adorn with the remaining basil leaves. This prepares your dish for its final stage, achieving a bubbly and golden finish in the oven's embrace.
Baking to perfection
Place the gnocchi dish in a 375 F oven, baking for about 20 minutes. Watch for the cheese to bubble and turn golden brown. Once this is achieved, remove the dish and serve immediately. Enjoying this hot from the oven ensures a truly authentic Italian experience, bringing the essence of Sorrento's culinary delight right to your table.
