Description
Discover the fresh flavors of spring with this delectable Gnocchi with Peas, Asparagus, and Mint. Light, buttery, and brightened with lemon zest and fresh mint, this quick vegetarian pasta dish is packed with vibrant green vegetables and creamy Parmesan. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, it brings together comforting Italian textures with seasonal produce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb store‑bought gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 10 ounces frozen peas
- ½ cup trimmed asparagus pieces
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 4 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Handful of fresh mint leaves
- Kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package directions until they float to the surface, about 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- While the gnocchi cooks, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the frozen peas and asparagus pieces, sauté for 2–3 minutes until bright and just tender.
- Stir in the garlic and lemon zest, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Reduce heat to low, add the remaining butter, and stir until melted.
- Toss the cooked gnocchi into the skillet, coating with the butter mixture.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and toss again until cheese begins to melt.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and chopped mint leaves. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.
Notes
For a dairy‑free version, substitute the butter and Parmesan with olive oil and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast. If you prefer a heartier dish, add cooked chicken or chickpeas. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or extra butter to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: B
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 55
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 12
- Cholesterol: 30
Keywords: gnocchi, peas, asparagus, spring, vegetarian, pasta