Gnocchi is a delicious Italian pasta dish that’s loved by many people. It’s rich and hearty and can be served as the main course of a meal or as a side dish.
If you’re serving gnocchi for dinner, it’s important to know what side dishes will best enhance the flavor of the dish.
Here I will share with you some creative and delicious sides to serve with gnocchi for dinner. So, just stay with me to make your dish the star of the show.
A Quick solution for what to serve with gnocchi for dinner- Vegetables, Grains, Meats, Salad, Garlic Bread, Roasted Brussels sprouts, Sautéed Mushrooms, Sauteed Spinach, Grilled Asparagus, Tomato Salad, Roasted Cauliflower, Eggplant Parmesan, Caprese Salad, Steamed Broccoli, Roasted Beets, Stewed Tomatoes, Garlic Green Beans, Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Sautéed Zucchini and Garlic, Baked Cauliflower Gratin, Walnut and Sage Pesto, Roasted Carrots & Parsnips, Lemon Asparagus Risotto, Kale Caesar Salad, Tomato Basil Soup, Grilled Corn Salad and many others.
What type of food is gnocchi, and what does gnocchi taste like?
Gnocchi is a type of Italian dumpling made from potatoes, eggs, and flour. It has a soft and tender texture with a delicate flavor.
The taste of gnocchi can vary depending on what it is served with; it can be served in a variety of sauces such as tomato sauce or pesto or even simply dressed with butter and fresh herbs.
Gnocchi can also be topped with cheese to create dishes like Gnocchi al Pesto con Parmigiano.
In general, the taste of gnocchi is light and pillowy, making it an ideal side dish or main course for those who prefer subtle flavors.
Gnocchi pairs well with simple sauces that allow its delicate flavor to shine. No matter how it’s served, gnocchi is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Best side dishes to serve with gnocchi for dinner
1. Vegetables
Vegetables are always a great go-to when it comes to pairing sides with your main course.
A simple green salad is always a good choice, but if you want something more flavorful, try roasted vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
Roasted vegetables provide an earthy flavor that goes nicely with the richness of the gnocchi.
Simply chop the vegetables into small pieces, toss them in olive oil and your favorite herbs or spices (such as oregano or garlic powder), lay them out on a baking sheet and bake them at 375 degrees for about 25 minutes until they’re tender and golden brown.
You could also opt for sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms, which will add great texture and flavor to your meal.
2. Grains
Grains are another excellent option when it comes to side dishes for gnocchi. You can consider trying quinoa, as it has a slightly nutty flavor that goes well with the creamy sauce typically found in gnocchi recipes.
Other grains like couscous or wild rice can also be used as sides for this dish.
These grains provide an additional layer of texture when combined with the softness of the gnocchi and its accompanying sauce.
3. Meats
If you’re looking for something heartier to serve alongside your gnocchi, meats can be great options too!
Chicken is always a popular choice since it’s light enough not to overpower the flavors of the other ingredients in your meal while still providing plenty of protein and nutrition.
If chicken isn’t your thing, consider grilled steak or pork tenderloin – these meats give off a smoky flavor that pairs nicely with creamy sauces like those found in traditional Italian dishes like gnocchi.
Or even try adding some bacon bits on top for extra crunch!
4. Salad
A simple green salad is a perfect way to add a healthy touch to your gnocchi dinner. Start by mixing together some chopped lettuce or spinach, cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices.
Top it off with a light dressing such as olive oil and lemon juice or balsamic vinegar and honey. For extra flavor, you can also add crumbled feta cheese or diced avocado.
5. Garlic Bread
My favorite Garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser! To make it, start by slicing a loaf of French bread into thick slices.
Then spread each slice with butter mixed with minced garlic and parsley (or use store-bought garlic butter).
Place on a baking tray and bake at 350 degrees until lightly golden brown (about 10 minutes). Serve warm alongside your freshly cooked gnocchi!
6. Roasted Brussels sprouts
When you Roast that out, the sweetness of Brussels sprouts makes them a perfect accompaniment for soft and pillowy gnocchi.
7. Sautéed Mushrooms
Earthy mushrooms are a natural match with gnocchi, and they can be quickly cooked up in just minutes on the stovetop.
8. Sauteed Spinach
Spinach adds color and nutrition to your dish, and it’s a great side for gnocchi.
9. Grilled Asparagus
Smoky grilled asparagus is the perfect partner for a plate of homemade gnocchi.
10. Tomato Salad
Tomatoes are an essential part of Italian cuisine, so why not make them the star of your gnocchi side dish? So, try it today to impress your guests.
11. Roasted Cauliflower
Roasting cauliflower brings out its sweetness, which makes it a great side for your soft-cooked gnocchi.
12. Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that tastes perfect for a hearty gnocchi dinner.
13. Caprese Salad
Bursting with flavor, this simple salad of tomato and mozzarella is always great alongside your gnocchi.
14. Steamed Broccoli
Steamed broccoli makes for an easy and healthy side dish to go with your gnocchi entrée.
15. Roasted Beets
Beets add sweetness and color to any plate, making them the perfect couple for your homemade gnocchi dinner.
16. Stewed Tomatoes
Simply stewed tomatoes are an excellent accompaniment for soft, pillowy gnocchi.
17. Garlic Green Beans
Cooked in garlic and butter, green beans make for a delicious side dish to go with your gnocchi dinner.
18. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This tasty side dish combines smoky bacon with crunchy Brussels sprouts, making the perfect accompaniment to gnocchi.
For an added burst of flavor, you can add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
19. Sautéed Zucchini and Garlic
A simple mix of sautéed zucchini and garlic is the ideal way to lighten up your meal while still providing plenty of flavors.
Use olive oil for sautéing, and feel free to add red pepper flakes or lemon juice for some extra kick.
20. Baked Cauliflower Gratin
This creamy gratin pairs beautifully with gnocchi, offering cheesy richness alongside the potato pasta’s comforting texture.
Top it off with some breadcrumbs for added crunch and herbs like thyme or oregano for additional flavor.
21. Walnut and Sage Pesto
Mix walnuts with fresh sage leaves, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil to create a delicious pesto sauce that will bring out the best in your gnocchi dish.
Serve this pesto over steamed vegetables, or use it as a dip for warm breadsticks on the side!
22. Spinach Salad with Feta Cheese
Feta cheese adds an element of salty sweetness to any spinach salad – plus, it tastes great when paired with gnocchi!
Try adding some sliced almonds for extra crunch or tossing in cranberries for a pop of color and tartness.
23. Roasted Carrots & Parsnips
A colorful mix of roasted carrots and parsnips creates a vibrant side dish that pairs beautifully with gnocchi.
For added flavor, toss your veggies in butter before roasting them in the oven – you won’t regret it!
24. Sauteed Mushrooms & Tomatoes
Fresh tomatoes provide sweet acidity that complements gnocchi dishes perfectly – especially when they’re sautéed along with mushrooms for an earthy flavor boost!
Finally, throw in some chopped fresh herbs at the end for extra depth of taste.
25. Crispy Roasted Potatoes
Prepare potatoes by cutting them into wedges and tossing them in olive oil before baking them until golden brown perfection!
These crispy potatoes make an excellent side that can be enjoyed alongside your favorite type of gnocchi dish (or all on their own!).
26. Garlic Butter Green Beans
Add a pop of color to your meal by serving steamed green beans coated in buttery, garlicky goodness on the side!
Feel free to top these green beans off with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese or crushed nuts like pecans before serving warm right away!
27. Lemon Asparagus Risotto
Not only is this risotto recipe flavorful– it takes less than 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish!
Infuse your risotto dish with bright citrus flavors from lemon juice and zest before topping off individual servings with crumbled feta cheese or freshly chopped parsley for garnish if desired!
28. Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Use this opportunity to get creative by preparing summertime skewered vegetable kebabs served alongside gnocchi dishes – think colorful selections such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, squash, eggplant slices…you name it!
29. Kale Caesar Salad
Make use of nutrient-rich kale as your base ingredient in this twist on classic Caesar salads – add crispy croutons (or even better– fried cubes of gnocchi!)
And finish off each plateful with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving cold (or at room temperature).
30. Tuscan Kale Salad With Sun-Dried Tomatoes & White Beans
Enjoy all the flavors of Tuscany right in your very own kitchen by creating a kale salad filled with sun-dried tomatoes and white beans–and don’t forget about adding fried cubes of gnocchi, too–for maximum deliciousness!
Finish off each plateful with shaved parmesan cheese just before serving chilled (or at room temp).
31. Herbed Orzo Pilaf With Toasted Pine Nuts
Transform plain old boring orzo pilaf into something special by adding freshly chopped herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano..tossing everything together, then baking until golden brown. Sprinkle over some pignoli nuts just before service time!
32. Roasted Red Pepper Soup
Creamy and flavorful, this roasted red pepper soup is an excellent way to get your daily dose of veggies.
Serve it up with a side of gnocchi for a delicious combination that will leave you feeling full and satisfied.
You can also add some freshly chopped herbs for garnish before serving warm!
33. Tomato Basil Soup
This classic tomato soup is sure to please your table– simply simmer tomatoes together with garlic, olive oil, and plenty of fresh basil until they’re nice and tender.
Serve the soup warm alongside crispy fried gnocchi bites or as-is in a bowl as an appetizer!
34. Garlic Parmesan Spinach
A quick sauté of garlic, and spinach is an easy way to get your daily dose of greens.
Just add butter, minced garlic, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of salt & pepper before sautéing until the spinach is wilted.
Serve with warm gnocchi on the side for a delicious meal!
35. Grilled Corn Salad
Celebrate summertime by enjoying grilled corn in salad form – this recipe only requires some fresh ears of corn (shucked and cleaned) tossed on the grill until nice and charred, then finished off with your favorite dressing or vinaigrette.
Top it off with some crumbled feta cheese and serve alongside a bowl of gnocchi for extra yumminess!
36. Roasted Vegetable Medley
Make the most of all that’s in the season by roasting a variety of vegetables together on one sheet pan.
Choose selections like bell peppers, squash, mushrooms, eggplant slices and more – just toss everything with some olive oil and herbs before baking for an easy side dish that pairs perfectly with gnocchi dishes!
What are the best flavors to go with gnocchi?
The best flavors to go with gnocchi will depend on personal taste preferences.
Some popular options include simple butter and parmesan cheese, creamy Alfredo sauce, pesto, tomato-based marinara sauces, and a variety of vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, garlic and onions.
For more adventurous flavor combinations, try adding smoked salmon or bacon for an extra savory twist.
Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano to add a fresh dimension to your dish. The options are limitless when it comes to creating delicious gnocchi dishes!
Enjoy exploring different flavor profiles with this versatile Italian classic!
How do you jazz up gnocchi?
There are many ways to add a bit of pizzazz to your gnocchi dish. One popular way is to top it with some type of sauce or cheese.
For example, you could use a creamy pesto, tomato-based marinara, or alfredo sauce. Additionally, you can add some freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.
For added texture and color, consider adding chopped vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach. These will also contribute some additional health benefits and provide a more balanced meal.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try stirring in some seasonings like garlic powder or onion powder for a savory touch; or try adding some herbs like oregano, basil, and rosemary for an aromatic flavor.
Finally, if you want a sweeter twist on the classic gnocchi dish, consider topping it with a warm honey butter glaze. This is especially great when served alongside roasted vegetables or as part of a larger meal.
How do you display gnocchi on a platter?
The presentation of gnocchi on a platter can add visual appeal to a dish. To plate the gnocchi, first, arrange them in a single layer around the center of the plate.
Place other accompaniments like vegetables or sauce around them in an attractive manner.
Finally, garnish with herbs, cheese, or nuts if desired. If serving family-style, simply place all of the ingredients in individual bowls and serve alongside the platter of gnocchi. Enjoy!
What to eat with gnocchi vegetarian?
Gnocchi is a delicious, versatile vegetarian dish that pairs well with many flavors. Here are some views on what to eat with gnocchi:
-Mushroom and Sage Sauce: Saute mushrooms in butter, add fresh and season with salt and pepper. Toss with cooked gnocchi and Parmesan cheese.
-Tomato Basil Pesto: Make a quick sauce by blending together tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil and nutritional yeast or Parmesan cheese. Pour over the cooked gnocchi for a savory flavor.
-Roasted Vegetables: Choose your favorite roasted veggies such as carrots, red onion wedges, bell peppers or broccoli florets. Serve over cooked gnocchi for a healthy and hearty meal.
-Creamy Spinach Alfredo: Sauté chopped spinach in olive oil and season with garlic, salt and pepper. Add cream or milk to the pan for a creamy sauce. Add Parmesan cheese and mix with cooked gnocchi until well combined.
-Pesto Primavera: Toss together your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, artichoke hearts, tomatoes and basil leaves with pesto sauce. Serve over cooked gnocchi as a complete meal.
FAQs on what to serve with gnocchi for dinner
Q1. How much gnocchi per person?
The amount of gnocchi to serve per person will depend on the size of your servings, as well as how hungry your guests are. Generally speaking, a good rule of thumb is to plan for about 3 ounces (85 g) of dry gnocchi per person.
You should also keep in mind that this estimate is for a main course and not a side dish. If you’re serving it as a side, you can reduce the portion size accordingly.
Additionally, if you’re making homemade gnocchi from scratch, consider adding 1/4 cup (30 g) of flour for each serving to make sure the dough doesn’t become too sticky when boiled.
Q2. What do Italians eat with gnocchi?
The most traditional way to serve gnocchi is with a simple tomato sauce. Other popular options include pesto, cream-based sauces, or a butter and sage sauce. Gnocchi can be served as a main dish or even as an appetizer.
It is also commonly served in soups or paired with other Italian dishes such as risotto, polenta, and roasted vegetables.
For a heartier meal, top your gnocchi with savory meats such as sausage and bacon. Finally, remember to add some fresh herbs for extra flavor! Enjoy your delicious homemade gnocchi! Buon Appetito!
Q3. What protein to serve with gnocchi?
Gnocchi is a delicious Italian pasta dish that can easily be accompanied by a variety of proteins. Chicken, beef, pork, seafood and even vegetarian options such as tofu or tempeh are all great choices to serve alongside gnocchi.
Try making a light Parmesan-crusted chicken breast to pair with your gnocchi. For a vegetarian option, try making sautéed mushrooms in garlic and herbs for an earthy flavor. If you’re looking for something heartier, consider pairing your gnocchi with grilled steak or salmon.
Finish off the meal by topping the protein of your choice with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh herbs.
Q4. How to serve gnocchi with chicken?
To serve gnocchi with chicken, first, preheat your oven to 375°F. Then, add some olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast and season with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it is lightly browned and cooked through.
Next, prepare the gnocchi according to package instructions or by boiling them in salted water for about 3 minutes or until tender. Drain the cooked gnocchi and set aside.
In a separate bowl, mix together tomato sauce, oregano, garlic powder, salt & pepper until blended. Then toss the cooked chicken pieces into the sauce and stir to coat. Place the coated chicken into an ovenproof baking dish and spread evenly.
Top the chicken with the cooked gnocchi and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Serve hot, and enjoy!
This easy recipe is sure to become a weekday staple in no time! With its simple yet tasty ingredients, it’s an ideal meal that’s both satisfying and comforting. So try this delicious dish of Gnocchi with Chicken today, and your family will be happy you did! Bon Appetit!
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Q5. What goes well with gnocchi and pesto?
Gnocchi and pesto make for a simple yet delicious dish. To complete the meal, try adding some vegetables like roasted bell peppers or sautéed mushrooms, or add a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing is also a nice addition.
For an Italian-inspired twist, top your gnocchi with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese and serve it with garlic bread or focaccia. You can even get inventive by adding other ingredients, such as sun-dried tomatoes, olives, capers, nuts, herbs and spices, to give your dish an extra flavor boost! Enjoy!
