Crispy Gnocchi with Whipped Feta, Cranberries & Honey
Description
Crispy Gnocchi with Whipped Feta, Cranberries & Honey is a gourmet-style dish that balances textures and flavors beautifully. Golden, pan-seared gnocchi provide a crispy exterior and soft center, paired with smooth, tangy whipped feta. Sweet honey and tart cranberries add contrast, while optional herbs and nuts bring freshness and crunch. This dish works perfectly as a light meal, elegant appetizer, or impressive side.
Flavor profile: Crispy, creamy, sweet, tangy, and slightly salty.
Time Required
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 3–4
Ingredients
For the Crispy Gnocchi
500 g (1 lb) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano (optional)
For the Whipped Feta
200 g (7 oz) feta cheese (crumbled)
120 g (½ cup) Greek yogurt or cream cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 small garlic clove (optional)
Toppings
⅓ cup dried cranberries
2–3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pistachios (optional)
Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
Lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Whipped Feta
Add feta, Greek yogurt (or cream cheese), olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic to a food processor.
Blend until smooth, creamy, and fluffy.
Taste and adjust salt or lemon if needed.
Refrigerate until ready to use.
Tip: If too thick, add 1–2 teaspoons of water or milk to loosen.
Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add gnocchi in a single layer (avoid overcrowding).
Cook for 3–4 minutes without stirring until golden and crisp.
Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until evenly browned.
Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
Tip: No need to boil shelf-stable gnocchi before frying.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Spread whipped feta on a serving plate.
Place crispy gnocchi on top.
Sprinkle dried cranberries and nuts.
Drizzle generously with honey.
Garnish with herbs and lemon zest.
Serve immediately while warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes. Thaw first and pat dry to ensure crispiness.
2. What can replace feta?
Goat cheese or ricotta (with added salt) work well.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Whipped feta: up to 3 days ahead (refrigerated).
Gnocchi: best cooked fresh for crisp texture.
4. Is this dish sweet or savory?
It’s a balanced sweet–savory dish with tangy, salty, and crunchy elements.
5. How do I make it healthier?
Use low-fat Greek yogurt.
Reduce honey.
Use less butter or skip it.
6. What protein can I add?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted chickpeas pair well.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving — Approximate)
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 15 g
Carbohydrates: 48 g
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 14 g
Sodium: 680 mg