Greek Gnocchi Traybake

Greek Gnocchi Traybake

Greek Gnocchi Traybake is a delightful fusion of flavors that combines the beloved Italian gnocchi with the vibrant, sun-kissed elements of Greek cuisine. Imagine tender gnocchi, roasted to a perfect golden crisp, mingling with caramelized red onions, sweet bell peppers, and zesty cherry tomatoes, all brought together under the crumbled richness of feta cheese. This dish not only looks inviting but also fills your home with enticing aromas that beckon everyone to the table. It’s a recipe that shines for weeknight dinners or gatherings, showcasing how easily two great culinary traditions can come together to create something extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Greek Gnocchi Traybake is designed for everyone – whether you’re a seasoned chef or just beginning your cooking journey. One of the standout benefits of this recipe is the minimal prep time. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a tasty meal that the entire family will adore. It’s immensely satisfying, making it perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and leisurely weekend meals. Plus, the baked goodness allows for easy cleanup, as everything cooks in one dish, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy your meal.

Ingredients for Greek Gnocchi Traybake

• 500 g gnocchi: These soft dumplings, whether store-bought or homemade, provide a wonderful texture that’s both chewy and satisfying.
• 400 g canned chickpeas: These protein-packed beauties add heartiness and nutrition to the dish, offering a delightful earthy flavor.
• 1 large red onion: Sliced to enhance sweetness during roasting, lending depth to the overall flavor profile.
• 2 bell peppers (red and yellow): Bright and sweet, these vibrant vegetables contribute both color and taste.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: A drizzle of this golden liquid helps to bring all the ingredients together while infusing them with rich flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A quintessential herb in Greek cooking, oregano adds an aromatic touch that elevates the entire dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a subtle earthy note that perfectly balances the other flavors.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This spice introduces a hint of smokiness, enhancing the overall complexity.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that heighten all the flavors.
• 200 g cherry tomatoes: These burst-in-your-mouth jewels brighten the dish and add a juicy contrast.
• 100 g feta cheese: Crumbled on top, this tangy cheese provides a creamy finish.
• 4 tablespoons black olives: Halved for an added briny kick that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: Adds a delightful freshness right before serving.
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced: The citrus note brightens the dish and brings everything together.

Step-by-Step Directions for Greek Gnocchi Traybake

1. Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly and achieves a delightful crisp.

2. Prepare the baking dish: In a large baking dish, combine the gnocchi, drained chickpeas, sliced red onion, and sliced bell peppers. This combination of ingredients sets the foundation for a fresh, hearty bake.

3. Season and coat: Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture. Sprinkle the oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper generously. Toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor.

4. Add the cherry tomatoes: Gently mix the halved cherry tomatoes into the baking dish, distributing them among the gnocchi and vegetables without breaking them apart.

5. Top with cheese and olives: Crumble the feta cheese over the top uniformly, then scatter the halved black olives evenly across the surface. This layering adds creaminess and tang to each bite.

6. Zest and juice the lemon: Before baking, zest the lemon over the entire traybake, and then squeeze the juice on top. This step adds a refreshing brightness that elevates the dish.

7. Bake to perfection: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the gnocchi begins to get golden and crispy, achieving the ideal texture.

8. Cool and garnish: Once cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley right before serving for an extra pop of color and freshness.

Tips & Tricks for Greek Gnocchi Traybake

To ensure your Gnocchi Traybake turns out perfectly every time, here are some chef’s secrets:

• Use fresh ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh herbs and in-season vegetables when possible.
• Customize the vegetables: Feel free to include other veggies like zucchini or spinach based on what you have on hand for added nutrition and flavor.
• Feta alternatives: If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative for a creamy finish.
• Spice it up: For those who love an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a slightly spicy variation.
• Prep ahead: You can prepare the dish in advance, cover, and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking for a quick and easy meal later on.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This Greek Gnocchi Traybake is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:

• Bread accompaniments: Pair your dish with warm, crusty bread or pita for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover juices.
• Side salads: A refreshing Greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and olives complements the flavors beautifully and adds a crisp texture.
• Wine pairing: For those who enjoy wine, a chilled glass of white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing sparkling water infused with lemon makes an excellent accompaniment.

Nutritional Information for Greek Gnocchi Traybake

Each serving of this flavorful traybake not only satisfies your taste buds but is also packed with nutrients. With an estimated calorie count per serving of about 400 calories, it provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats from the olive oil and feta cheese. Additionally, the chickpeas offer an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this dish a nourishing option for any meal.

Storing Tips & Variations for Greek Gnocchi Traybake

• Freezing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and frozen for up to three months. Be sure to cool the traybake completely before freezing to maintain its flavor and texture.
• Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.
• Healthier swaps: For a lighter version, consider using cauliflower gnocchi or a variety of vegetables like mushrooms and spinach instead of heavier ingredients.
• Creative variations: Mix up the flavors by adding sun-dried tomatoes or roasted garlic for a customized touch.

Conclusion for Greek Gnocchi Traybake

Don’t wait any longer to experience the delightful combination of flavors in this Greek Gnocchi Traybake. With its easy preparation and satisfying taste, it’s a dish that can bring everyone together around the table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to be the star of the meal. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a dish that not only nourishes but also pleases the palate!

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi adds a personal touch and can elevate the dish even further if you take the time to prepare it.

2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it a day in advance and bake it just before you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I make it vegan?
Certainly! Simply omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free substitution, and all the other ingredients are naturally vegan.

4. How can I add more protein?
Add grilled chicken or turkey on top of the bake for an extra protein boost without sacrificing flavor.

5. What should I do if my gnocchi sticks together?
To prevent the gnocchi from sticking together, toss them with a little olive oil before adding them to the baking dish. This will help keep them separate as they cook.

Greek Gnocchi Traybake

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• Author: noah-reed
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful fusion of Italian and Greek cuisine featuring crispy gnocchi, roasted vegetables, and tangy feta cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 500 g gnocchi
• 400 g canned chickpeas
• 1 large red onion, sliced
• 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 200 g cherry tomatoes, halved
• 100 g feta cheese, crumbled
• 4 tablespoons black olives, halved
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. In a large baking dish, combine the gnocchi, drained chickpeas, sliced red onion, and sliced bell peppers.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and sprinkle with oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated.
4. Gently mix in the halved cherry tomatoes.
5. Crumble the feta cheese uniformly over the top and scatter the halved black olives.
6. Zest the lemon over the traybake and squeeze the juice on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the gnocchi is golden and crispy.
8. Cool for a few minutes and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Feel free to customize vegetables or substitute feta cheese as desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 30mg