Name: Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 5 oz fresh spinach; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; Juice of 1/2 lemon

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Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta a golden, crispy gnocchi dish tossed with garlicky spinach and creamy feta, this quick skillet meal is a comforting favorite I love turning to on hectic nights. It’s one of those go-to dinners that feels indulgent but only takes about 20 minutes to get on the table. The combination of crisped gnocchi, vibrant greens, and salty cheese brings bold Mediterranean flavors that always hit the spot.

Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

5 oz fresh spinach

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

½ cup crumbled feta cheese

Juice of ½ lemon

Directions

I heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.

I add the gnocchi in a single layer and let it cook undisturbed for about 3–4 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.

I give the gnocchi a stir and let them cook for another 3–4 minutes, allowing all sides to crisp up nicely.

I stir in the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until it smells fragrant.

I toss in the fresh spinach and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for 2–3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.

I season the skillet with salt and black pepper to taste.

After removing the pan from heat, I stir in the lemon juice and crumbled feta.

I serve this dish warm, either as a main course or a hearty vegetarian side.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Calories per serving: Approximately 320 kcal

Variations

I sometimes swap out the spinach for kale or Swiss chard if that’s what I have on hand.

To make this heartier, I add roasted chickpeas or grilled chicken on top.

For a burst of sweetness, I like tossing in a few cherry tomatoes right before the spinach.

If I want a more indulgent version, I sprinkle some grated Parmesan along with the feta.

To make it vegan, I skip the feta or use a dairy-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I like using a skillet over medium heat to re-crisp the gnocchi, but the microwave works fine if I’m short on time. I usually add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

How do I make the gnocchi extra crispy?

I make sure the pan is hot and let the gnocchi sit undisturbed during the first few minutes of cooking to develop that golden crust. Also, I avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, I can use frozen spinach, but I always thaw and squeeze out the excess moisture before adding it to the skillet to avoid sogginess.

What type of gnocchi works best?

I like using shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi for this recipe. They crisp up beautifully in the skillet without needing to be boiled first.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It depends on the gnocchi. I check the label for gluten-free versions, which are available at most grocery stores.

Can I make this ahead of time?

This dish is best fresh, but I can prep the components (like mincing the garlic and washing the spinach) ahead of time. Leftovers also reheat well if needed.

Conclusion

This crispy gnocchi with spinach and feta is a weeknight hero in my kitchen. It’s fast, filling, and packed with bright, bold flavors from simple ingredients. Whether I serve it as a satisfying meatless main or a comforting side, it’s always a hit—and the minimal cleanup doesn’t hurt either.

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Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A quick and flavorful skillet meal featuring crispy gnocchi, sautéed spinach, and crumbled feta. This vegetarian dish is ready in just 20 minutes and brings bold Mediterranean flavors to your table.