Gnocchi is an Italian classic, savored for centuries. The key to unlocking its flavors is finding the ideal sauce. There are various options, but some may disappoint.
To ensure that you don’t go through trial and error methods until you no longer want to have this delicious treat, I am here to help you choose the best sauce for Gnocchi – and how to prepare at home.
Pesto, made from basil, garlic, olive oil, pine nuts and parmesan, is a popular choice. This green sauce adds a zing to the pillowy texture.
Tomato-based sauces, such as marinara or arrabbiata, also pair well. Crucially, the sauce should complement, not overpower, the gnocchi. Creamy Alfredo sauce and cheese-based sauces can be too heavy. But even so, I have the perfect Carbonara recipe here – make sure to check it out!
In WWII, Gnocchi was a staple for peasants due to its affordability. Today, it’s a celebrated dish and a favorite of foodies seeking comfort. Tomato sauce is like a dependable friend at the gnocchi party.
Also, cheese is an all-time favorite. If you’re looking for pairings or inspiration, make sure to also check my article sharing what goes with Brie for 14 great suggestions.
Classic Tomato Sauce for Gnocchi – recipe
To perfect your classic tomato sauce for the best sauce for gnocchi, this solution provides you with the required ingredients and method of preparation.
This section will help you create the perfect tomato sauce that goes well with your delicious gnocchi.
Ingredients
For a scrumptious tomato sauce, the following ingredients are necessary:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes | 28oz can |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Salt | to taste |
| Sugar | 1 tsp |
To give you more information, it can be cooked in an hour. Simmering will intensify the flavour. Try mixing different cooking techniques to get a tantalizing taste.
Making your own classic tomato sauce is so satisfying. Get cooking now and share it with your friends! Transform your life with this easy recipe – it’s like ketchup’s classy older sister.
Method of Preparation
For the delectable Classic Tomato Sauce, take these steps:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat.
- Finely chop 1 onion, add to the pan, and add a pinch of salt.
- Cook the onion for 5 minutes, until soft but not browned.
- Mince 2 cloves of garlic. Add to the pan and cook for another minute.
- Pour in one can (28 ounces) of peeled plum tomatoes and their juices, using a wooden spoon to break up any large pieces.
Simmer the Classic Tomato Sauce over low heat for at least an hour. Stir occasionally and crush any tomato chunks against the side of the pan. After an hour, season the sauce with salt to taste.
This recipe is perfect for those looking to add Italian flair to their dish! And if you enjoy Italian food, I have an article detailing how to use a pizza stone for frozen pizza.
Pesto Sauce
To make the perfect pesto sauce for your gnocchi dish, you need to know the right ingredients and method of preparation.
Ingredients
Make mouth-watering Pesto Sauce with these fresh and aromatic ingredients. Perfect for pasta, salad dressings, or as a dip.
Here’s what you need:
- Fresh Basil Leaves – 2 cups
- Pine Nuts – 1/2 cup
- Garlic Cloves – 3-4
- Parmesan Cheese (grated) – 1/2 cup
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – 1/3 cup
- Salt and Pepper – According to taste
Tweak the flavour with lemon juice or replace pine nuts with other nuts like walnuts or almonds.
Pesto Sauce has been around since Roman times, when they used mortar and pestle to grind up leaves and herbs.
Originated in Genoa, Italy in the late Middle Ages, it’s now a culinary staple worldwide and one of Italy’s most popular exports.
Create your own homemade Pesto Sauce with this easy method!
Method of Preparation
- Gather ingredients: basil leaves, garlic cloves, parmesan cheese, pine nuts or walnuts, salt, and olive oil.
- Rinse & dry basil leaves.
- Put all ingredients (except oil) into a blender or food processor.
- Blend on low speed, slowly pouring in oil until desired consistency is reached.
- Continue blending until all ingredients are combined, then pour into a bowl.
Extra Details:
Don’t over-blend or over-process, as this may cause discoloration of the basil leaves and release bitterness. You can use for blending one of the best stick blenders I have recommended before.
Alfredo Sauce
To make the perfect alfredo sauce for your gnocchi, you need to have the right ingredients and proper method of preparation.
This creamy sauce is perfect for those who love a rich and savory taste.
Ingredients
This Alfredo Sauce recipe is sure to please your taste buds! Here’s the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter
- 1 pint Heavy Cream
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated with a small grater)
- Salt and Black Pepper to taste
Put all the ingredients in a pan and cook on medium heat. Keep stirring until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
You can make it even tastier by adding white wine or sage leaves during the cooking process.
Alfredo Sauce was created by Alfredo di Lelio in his restaurant in Rome during the early 20th century.
It was served with fettuccine noodles to satisfy his pregnant wife’s cravings, and quickly became a hit across Europe and North America!
Method of Preparation
- Melt butter in a pan over low heat.
- Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant.
- Pour cream in and stir until it thickens.
- Mix in cheese, salt, and pepper.
Timing is key! Don’t let it get too hot or it will curdle. Serve it hot. For extra flavor, add smoked paprika, chili powder, or different types of cheese.
Speaking of which, make sure to also check out my previous article where I shared over 50 foods to take on a pontoon boat.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the ideal sauce for gnocchi can be daunting with all the options out there. Our favorite? A simple tomato sauce with fresh basil and garlic.
Tomatoes have a tangy-sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the soft texture of gnocchi. Plus, herbs add an extra layer of depth to the dish.
Do you have a different favorite? Let us all know by commenting below. Or simply continue reading the FAQs below – or the previous article where I shared the perfect method for reheating fries.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best sauce for gnocchi?
There are several sauces that go well with gnocchi, but the most popular choices include tomato sauce, pesto, and creamy alfredo sauce. It ultimately comes down to personal preference.
2. Can I use meat sauce for gnocchi?
Yes, meat sauce can be used as a topping for gnocchi. Bolognese sauce, which is a meat sauce made with ground beef, is a popular choice for gnocchi.
3. Is there a vegan sauce option for gnocchi?
Yes, there are several vegan sauce options that can be used for gnocchi, including tomato sauce, mushroom sauce, and olive oil and garlic sauce.
4. Should I use a thick or thin sauce for gnocchi?
It’s recommended to use a thin sauce for gnocchi, as the pasta is already a starchy and filling dish. A thin sauce will allow the flavors of the sauce and the gnocchi to blend together without overpowering each other.
5. Can I make my own sauce for gnocchi?
Absolutely! Making your own sauce for gnocchi can be a fun and rewarding experience. You can experiment with different herbs, spices, and flavors to create a unique sauce that complements the gnocchi.
6. How do I properly serve gnocchi with sauce?
Serve the gnocchi in a bowl or plate, and top it with your desired sauce. Be sure to mix the gnocchi and sauce together so that the pasta is coated evenly. You can also add grated cheese and fresh herbs on top for extra flavor.