Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables

I still remember the first time I made this dish after a long, busy day. I wanted something quick yet comforting, something that didn’t need fancy ingredients or hours of cooking. That’s how this Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables became one of my weeknight heroes. The soft gnocchi, buttery corn, and juicy cherry tomatoes create a sauce that feels indulgent but comes together in no time. Every bite tastes like summer, even on the coldest evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves delicious food but doesn’t want to spend forever in the kitchen. It’s rich, flavorful, and ready in only 15 minutes. You don’t need to be a chef to master it—just a pot, a pan, and a little butter.

Versatile
What I love most about this dish is how easy it is to adapt. You can swap the vegetables for whatever’s in your fridge—spinach, peas, or zucchini all work beautifully. You can even make it vegan by using plant-based butter and cheese alternatives. It fits every season, mood, or craving.

Budget-Friendly
This gnocchi dish proves that tasty food doesn’t have to be expensive. With simple pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Store-bought gnocchi, corn, and tomatoes are affordable, and a little butter goes a long way in making everything taste luxurious.

Ingredients for the Recipe
To make this cozy meal, you’ll need:

• 1 lb Gnocchi (store-bought) – soft, pillowy, and perfect for soaking up flavors.

• 4 tbsp Butter (divided) – for that silky, golden sauce.

• 2 Shallots (finely diced) – add sweetness and depth to the dish.

• 1 cup Corn – fresh or frozen, bringing a pop of color and crunch.

• 10 oz Cherry Tomatoes – juicy and sweet, they balance the richness.

• ½ cup Grated Parmesan or Vegetarian Alternative – optional, but adds a creamy finish.

• Fresh Basil – for that final touch of freshness.

• Sea Salt and Black Pepper – to taste, enhancing all the flavors.

This dish brings together everyday ingredients into something truly special. It’s one of those recipes that feels both comforting and impressive, proving that simple meals can still make people smile around the dinner table.

How to Make This Recipe

Making this Quick & Easy Gnocchi with Vegetables couldn’t be simpler. I always start by setting a pot of salted water to boil because the gnocchi cooks in just a few minutes. While that’s happening, I prepare everything else on the stove so dinner comes together fast and fresh.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pan of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook them according to the package instructions, usually about 2–3 minutes, until they float to the surface. Once cooked, drain and reserve about ½ cup of the cooking water. This starchy water helps form the buttery sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
While the gnocchi cooks, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced shallots and the corn. Sauté them together, stirring often, until the vegetables begin to soften and take on a light golden color. This usually takes around 8 minutes. Season with sea salt and black pepper for a balanced flavor base.

Step 3: Add the Cherry Tomatoes
Next, add the cherry tomatoes directly to the skillet. Turn the heat down slightly so they soften gently. Allow them to cook for about 5 minutes until they start to burst and release their sweet juices. Stir in another 2 tablespoons of butter to enrich the sauce and blend everything together.

Step 4: Combine Everything
Now, add the cooked gnocchi into the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in about ¼ to ½ cup of the reserved cooking water and toss everything together. This step helps create a silky, buttery sauce that clings beautifully to the gnocchi. If you like an extra-rich texture, you can add 1–2 more tablespoons of butter at this point.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Seasoning
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan or vegetarian alternative. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, making it creamy and flavorful. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the gnocchi warm, topped with fresh basil and a little more grated cheese if desired. The combination of buttery corn, juicy tomatoes, and soft gnocchi feels comforting yet light, making it perfect for any night of the week.

Quick and Easy
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. From start to finish, it takes less than 20 minutes, and everything cooks in just two pans. You don’t need special tools or complicated steps—just fresh ingredients and a bit of butter.

Customizable
You can easily make this dish your own. Swap corn for peas, tomatoes for roasted peppers, or add spinach for a leafy twist. For extra protein, toss in some grilled chicken or tofu. Every version tastes unique, yet equally satisfying.

Crowd-Pleasing
This gnocchi recipe is a guaranteed hit at any table. Whether you serve it for family dinner or a casual get-together, everyone loves the mix of buttery sauce and sweet vegetables. It’s colorful, cozy, and full of flavor—proof that the simplest recipes often make the biggest impression.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily use frozen gnocchi. There’s no need to thaw it first—just cook it directly in boiling water until it floats to the surface, then continue with the recipe as written.

Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely. Simply use plant-based butter and a vegan Parmesan substitute. The result will still be creamy, flavorful, and comforting without any dairy.

Can I add protein to make it more filling?
Yes, this recipe works beautifully with extra protein. You can mix in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy tofu. Each option adds a satisfying texture and makes the dish heartier.

What can I use instead of cherry tomatoes?
If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, diced Roma or grape tomatoes make great substitutes. You can also use canned diced tomatoes in a pinch, though they’ll create a slightly softer texture.

How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the cooked gnocchi and vegetables simmer for a few extra minutes so the liquid reduces slightly. Adding a bit more Parmesan or vegetarian cheese will also help achieve a creamier consistency.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can cook the vegetables and sauce in advance. When ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture, cook the gnocchi, and combine everything. This saves time while keeping the flavors vibrant.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or butter to refresh the sauce.

Can I freeze the cooked dish?
Freezing isn’t ideal, as gnocchi tends to become mushy once thawed. However, you can freeze the sautéed vegetables separately and combine them with freshly cooked gnocchi later for a similar flavor.

What herbs can I use besides basil?
Fresh parsley, thyme, or oregano all pair beautifully with this dish. Each herb adds a slightly different note while keeping the overall taste light and fresh.

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