Introduction
Gnocchi, the classic Italian dumplings made from potatoes, flour, and eggs, have been enjoyed in Italian cuisine for centuries. While traditionally boiled and served with sauces, gnocchi can also be made into a crispy treat using an air fryer. This method delivers a unique texture—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—giving a modern twist to this beloved dish.
Step 1
Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Step 2
In a large bowl, toss the gnocchi with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to coat them well. Add garlic powder, paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper, mixing until the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Step 3
Place the seasoned gnocchi in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding for even cooking. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure uniform crispiness. The gnocchi should turn golden brown and crispy.
Step 4
Once cooked, transfer the gnocchi to a serving dish. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately with marinara sauce, pesto, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Step 5
No need to pre-boil the gnocchi—use them straight from the package. For best results, avoid overcrowding and shake the basket halfway through cooking.
Why Choose Air Fryer Gnocchi?
Preparing gnocchi in an air fryer has several benefits:
Quick and Convenient: Air fryers cook food quickly, making this method perfect for a fast snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Healthier Cooking: Air frying uses minimal oil, resulting in fewer calories compared to traditional frying.
Enhanced Texture: The hot air circulation ensures even cooking, making the gnocchi crispy on the outside while tender inside.
Ingredients
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
1 pound (about 450 grams) of store-bought or homemade gnocchi
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Preparation Steps
Serving
Transfer the cooked gnocchi to a serving dish. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for extra flavor. Serve immediately with marinara sauce, pesto, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for about 5 minutes.
Season the Gnocchi
In a mixing bowl, toss the gnocchi with olive oil until well-coated. Add garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, and mix to ensure even seasoning.
Air Frying
Place the seasoned gnocchi in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway for even crisping. The gnocchi should be golden and crispy when done.
Tips for Success
Shake for Even Cooking: Shaking the basket halfway helps achieve uniform crispiness and color.
No Need to Boil: Skip pre-boiling the gnocchi; using them directly from the package gives the best results.
Avoid Overcrowding: Place gnocchi in a single layer in the air fryer basket for even cooking.
Variations
Herb-Infused: Include dried herbs like Italian seasoning or rosemary in the seasoning mix for an aromatic flavor.
Cheesy Gnocchi: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese during the last 2 minutes of cooking for a melted, cheesy topping.
Conclusion and final thoughts
Air fryer gnocchi offers a delightful and healthier twist on a traditional favorite, merging Italian flavors with modern cooking techniques. This method makes it easy to enjoy crispy gnocchi, perfect for various occasions—from a quick snack to an elegant appetizer.
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