Sweet Corn and Basil Gnocchi

There’s something undeniably charming about homemade gnocchi. This classic Italian dish, with its pillowy texture and comforting essence, has a way of bringing people together around the dinner table. Often regarded as a labor of love, making gnocchi from scratch can feel both rewarding and therapeutic. This recipe for Sweet Corn & Basil Gnocchi introduces a refreshing twist to the traditional preparation, combining the natural sweetness of corn with the aromatic freshness of basil. This delightful fusion not only tantalizes the taste buds but also elevates a classic dish into something uniquely special.

Discover the joy of making homemade Sweet Corn & Basil Gnocchi with this delightful recipe. Experience the blend of sweet corn's natural flavor and aromatic basil, creating a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This versatile dish can be served as a main course or alongside your favorite meals, making it a crowd-pleaser at family dinners or elegant gatherings. Enjoy the therapeutic process of crafting each pillowy dumpling and savor the unique flavors of your efforts.

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Ingredients

2 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 large egg

2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)

Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, remove the kernels from the cob and set aside. If using frozen, thaw the corn completely.

Make Corn Purée: In a blender or food processor, pulse the sweet corn until it forms a smooth purée. Leave some small chunks for texture if desired.

Mix Gnocchi Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn purée, ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined. Gradually add the flour, stirring until a soft dough forms. Depending on the moisture of the corn, you might need to adjust the amount of flour slightly.

Add Basil: Gently fold in the chopped basil until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Form the Gnocchi: Dust a clean work surface with flour. Divide the dough into quarters. Roll each piece into long ropes, about ½ inch thick. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi. Use a fork to gently press down on each piece, creating the classic gnocchi shape.

Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi in batches; they are done when they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Use a slotted spoon to remove them and transfer to a plate.

Sauté the Gnocchi: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the cooked gnocchi in a single layer, sautéing them until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.

Serve: Transfer the sautéed gnocchi to serving plates. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with additional olive oil if desired. Enjoy warm!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4 🍽️