Crispy Gnocchi With Spinach And Feta

If you crave a comforting yet refreshing meal that’s ready in minutes, Crispy Gnocchi With Spinach And Feta is your perfect weeknight hero. Imagine golden pan-seared gnocchi with a satisfying crunch, tossed in fragrant garlic, tender spinach, and creamy crumbled feta. It’s an easy, vegetarian, and flavor-packed dish that turns simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

This one pan gnocchi recipe is Mediterranean-inspired, rich in texture, and beautifully balanced — salty, creamy, and slightly tangy. Whether you’re cooking for family or looking for a quick solo dinner, this Pan-Fried Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta delivers the flavor and satisfaction of a restaurant meal right from your kitchen.

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Golden perfection: The gnocchi turns perfectly crispy on the outside while staying fluffy inside.

  • Quick & effortless: A full meal on the table in under 20 minutes — ideal for busy weeknights.

  • Healthy yet indulgent: Packed with iron-rich spinach and protein from feta cheese.

  • One-pan magic: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor in every bite.

  • Mediterranean comfort: The blend of garlic, olive oil, and feta creates a light yet deeply satisfying taste.

  • Customizable: Add cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, or herbs for extra flair.

  • Budget-friendly: Every ingredient is affordable, yet the result tastes gourmet.

  • Perfect for any diet: Naturally vegetarian and easy to adapt for gluten-free gnocchi lovers.

 Ingredients

For the Crispy Gnocchi With Spinach And Feta

  • 1 pound gnocchi – Use fresh or shelf-stable potato gnocchi for best texture.

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps achieve that golden, crunchy crust.

  • 4 cups fresh spinach (about 120 g) – Adds a fresh, earthy balance to the rich flavors.

  • 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled (about 115 g) – Brings salty creaminess that ties the dish together.

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances aroma and depth.

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste – Essential to highlight each layer of flavor.

  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a mild kick that complements the feta.

💡 Ingredient Tips & Substitutions:

  • Swap feta for goat cheese or ricotta salata if desired.

  • Use baby spinach for tenderness or kale for a heartier version.

  • To make it dairy-free, substitute vegan feta or tofu crumbles.

  • Add lemon zest for a bright finish or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.

 How to Make Crispy Gnocchi With Spinach And Feta

Step 1: Boil the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface — about 2–3 minutes. This ensures they’re perfectly tender inside. Drain well.

Step 2: Pan-Fry to Golden Crisp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the gnocchi in a single layer and let them sear undisturbed for 2–3 minutes. You’ll see them turn golden and crispy, which adds that signature texture. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until all sides are crunchy.

Step 3: Add Garlic & Spinach

Lower the heat slightly, then stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the spinach and toss gently until it wilts, about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Season & Add Feta

Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Remove from heat, then stir in the crumbled feta cheese so it melts slightly and coats the gnocchi beautifully.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Plate immediately while hot, with a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

 Pro Tips for Perfect Results

🔹 How do you keep gnocchi crispy?

Let the gnocchi sear without stirring too often. The secret is patience — a golden crust forms only when left untouched for a few minutes.

🔹 Can I make Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta without boiling first?

Yes! Use shelf-stable gnocchi straight in the pan, but cook them longer (6–8 minutes) until golden. The texture will be extra crunchy.

🔹 What else can I add for more flavor?

Toss in roasted garlic, cherry tomatoes, or caramelized onions for a sweet-savory contrast. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or oregano also brightens the dish.

 Best Ways to Serve

Pair your Crispy Gnocchi and Spinach Skillet with:

  • A simple arugula salad with lemon dressing.

  • Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

  • Garlic bread or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.

 Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 340 kcal

  • Protein: 11g

  • Fat: 15g

  • Carbs: 38g

  • Fiber: 4g

  • Sodium: 410mg

  • Calcium: 12% DV

  • Iron: 18% DV

Storage & Leftovers

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil to restore crispiness.

  • Freeze: Best enjoyed fresh — gnocchi tends to lose its texture after freezing.

 FAQs About Crispy Gnocchi With Spinach And Feta

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding to the pan.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free gnocchi — most stores carry them in the pasta section.

Can I make it creamy?

Yes, add a splash of cream or Greek yogurt after adding the spinach for a rich sauce variation.

 Variations

  • Mediterranean Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta: Add olives, cherry tomatoes, and oregano.

  • Golden Fried Gnocchi with Spinach and Herbs: Use butter instead of olive oil for nutty depth.

  • Crispy Potato Gnocchi with Spinach: Swap in sweet potato gnocchi for an earthy, sweet contrast.

  • Vegetarian Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta: Add chickpeas or white beans for extra plant protein.

 Conclusion

Crispy Gnocchi With Spinach And Feta is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. In just one pan and under 20 minutes, you can enjoy a warm, crispy, and irresistibly savory meal that tastes straight out of the Mediterranean.

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