Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi

Name: Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; Salt to taste; 4 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love spending my Sundays preparing this delightful Tomato Basil Gnocchi. The aroma of fresh basil and simmering tomatoes fills my kitchen, creating the perfect ambiance for a cozy meal. This dish combines soft, fluffy gnocchi with a vibrant tomato sauce, making it a comforting choice for any family gathering or weekend treat. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and the joy of cooking with fresh ingredients. Join me in creating this delicious dish that never fails to impress!

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:37:12.443Z

As I was experimenting in the kitchen one Sunday afternoon, I stumbled upon the perfect balance of flavors that defined my Tomato Basil Gnocchi. The key is using ripe, high-quality tomatoes, which create a robust and fresh sauce. I enjoy making the gnocchi from scratch; it adds a personal touch and ensures that they are light and airy, absorbing the sauce beautifully.

After various trials, I discovered that tossing the gnocchi in the sauce just before serving prevents them from becoming soggy. This tip transformed my dish from good to gourmet. Each bite is a delicious harmony of basil, tomato, and delightful gnocchi, making this a dish I return to time and again.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh basil brings an aromatic herby flavor to the dish
Comforting gnocchi with a luscious homemade sauce
Perfect for a cozy Sunday dinner or any special occasion

      

Understanding Gnocchi Texture

The texture of gnocchi is key to its success. When mixing the dough, aim for a soft, elastic consistency that is neither too wet nor too dry. If it feels sticky, incorporate a little more flour, but be cautious not to overdo it, as this can lead to dense gnocchi. The perfect gnocchi should have a lightness that gives way easily yet holds its shape when cooked.

When rolling the gnocchi, ensure your surface is well-floured to prevent sticking. If you're unsure about the right size, each piece should be about the size of a small marble. This uniformity helps them cook evenly and ensures each bite has a perfect balance of dough and sauce.

Choosing the Right Tomatoes

The choice of tomatoes greatly influences the flavor of your sauce. Opt for ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best taste. Varieties like San Marzano are particularly good because they are sweeter and have fewer seeds, lending a richer flavor to the sauce. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, using high-quality canned tomatoes can be a great alternative; just be sure to adjust the cooking time as canned tomatoes may require less reduction.

When chopping tomatoes, aim for roughly equal-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. This consistency helps prevent some pieces from breaking down too quickly, maintaining body and texture in the sauce. Additionally, consider adding a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are particularly acidic; this simple trick can round out the flavors.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the gnocchi and sauce separately in airtight containers. The gnocchi can be refrigerated for up to 2-3 days while the sauce can last about a week. To reheat, gently warm the sauce in a skillet over low heat to prevent burning. For the gnocchi, briefly drop them in boiling water for a minute or until heated through, then mix with the warmed sauce.

For longer storage, consider freezing. You can freeze the uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. Cook them directly from frozen by adding a couple of extra minutes in the boiling water. This not only saves time but allows you to enjoy this delicious meal anytime.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful cooking experience:

Ingredients for Gnocchi

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 large egg
Salt to taste

Ingredients for Tomato Basil Sauce

4 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients will come together to create a fantastic meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Gnocchi:

Make the Gnocchi

In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, flour, egg, and salt until combined. On a floured surface, knead the dough lightly until smooth. Divide into small pieces and roll into ropes, then cut into 1-inch pieces.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, then add the chopped tomatoes. Cook for about 10 minutes until the tomatoes break down. Stir in fresh basil, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface (about 3-4 minutes). Drain and toss them with the tomato sauce.

Serve

Plate the gnocchi, garnishing with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy your heartwarming Sunday meal!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding parmesan cheese to the gnocchi or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce.

Enhancing Flavor with Basil

Fresh basil is the star ingredient in this recipe, bringing an aromatic and vibrant flavor profile. When adding it to the sauce, do so towards the end of cooking to retain its fresh taste. Cooking basil too long can lead to a dull flavor; it should just wilt slightly before serving. For an added depth, consider tearing the basil rather than chopping; this releases more essential oils and enhances the aroma.

If you want to experiment, try adding different herbs like oregano or thyme alongside or instead of basil for a unique twist. Keep in mind each herb has its own cooking time; add sturdier herbs earlier and delicate ones like basil later in the process.

Cooking Tips for Perfectly Floating Gnocchi

Floating gnocchi are a sure sign that they’re ready to be taken out of the pot. As a general rule, they should take about 3-4 minutes to float to the surface in boiling water. Create a gentle boil to avoid harsh bubbles that can break the delicate dumplings apart. If they're not floating after 4 minutes, you may need to check the heat of the water; a rolling boil is crucial for proper cooking.

Avoid overcrowding the pot as this can cause the temperature to drop, leading to uneven cooking. If you're making a large batch, cook them in batches instead. Once cooked, lift the gnocchi out using a slotted spoon to maintain their shape.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate the Dish

To truly make this dish a standout, think about pairing it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery arugula complements the sweetness of the tomato sauce beautifully while adding a refreshing crunch. Another option is to sprinkle finely grated Parmesan cheese over the gnocchi before serving for an extra layer of flavor. You could even mix in a hint of chili flakes for those who like a bit of heat.

If you're hosting, consider serving this dish family-style in a large bowl. Let guests top their servings with additional basil and cheese, allowing for a personalized touch. This not only makes for an inviting presentation but also encourages everyone to dig in and enjoy together.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi can be used as a time-saver. Just adjust the cooking time as per the package instructions.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can substitute ricotta with a plant-based alternative and use aquafaba instead of the egg.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze the gnocchi?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked gnocchi. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.