Try this Italian vegan pesto gnocchi recipe
Italian vegan pesto gnocchi blends the richness of traditional Italian cuisine with vegan cooking principles. Originating from Italy, gnocchi, soft dough dumplings, have been a staple in Italian homes for centuries. The addition of vegan pesto introduces a fresh, herbaceous flavor, making it a plant-based favorite. Let's begin cooking to bring a taste of Italy to your dining table.
Gather the following ingredients
For this recipe, you will need two cups of all-purpose flour, one cup of mashed potatoes (cooled), salt to taste, and for the pesto: two cups of fresh basil leaves, three cloves of garlic, one-fourth cup of pine nuts, half a cup of olive oil, and nutritional yeast to taste. These ingredients will create a flavorful dish that serves four people.
Prepare the gnocchi dough
Begin by mixing your cooled mashed potatoes with the all-purpose flour in a sizable bowl. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Carefully knead this mixture until you achieve a smooth, pliable dough. It's crucial to avoid over-kneading, as doing so can result in tough gnocchi. Once the dough reaches the desired consistency, evenly divide it into four parts.
Shape and cook gnocchi
Roll each piece of dough into long snakes on a floured surface and cut them into one-inch pieces. Press each piece gently with a fork to create ridges if desired; these help hold more sauce. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook gnocchi in batches until they float to the top, which usually takes about three minutes.
Make vegan pesto sauce
For the pesto, place two cups of basil, three garlic cloves, and one-fourth cup of pine nuts in a food processor. Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor and half a cup of olive oil for smoothness. Blend until creamy. Season with salt to taste. This method yields a flavorful and rich vegan pesto sauce, perfect for coating the gnocchi.
Combine and serve
Once gnocchi are cooked and drained, mix them with vegan pesto sauce, ensuring each is coated. Serve hot for the best experience. Pair this dish with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy making this delightful Italian vegan pesto gnocchi, a simple recipe that brings traditional flavors to any kitchen without compromising dietary preferences.
