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Easy Pan-Fried Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta (One-Pan Recipe)

This Crispy Gnocchi With Spinach And Feta recipe delivers the ultimate Mediterranean comfort food in just 15 minutes. Golden, pan-seared gnocchi meet fresh spinach and tangy feta for a restaurant-quality dish that’s fast, satisfying, and nutritious.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Essential Components:
  • 1 pound gnocchi fresh or frozen
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • 4 cups fresh spinach about 120g
  • 4 ounces feta cheese crumbled (about 115g)
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Smart Substitutions: Use gluten-free gnocchi swap spinach for arugula or kale, or replace feta with goat cheese or dairy-free cashew feta.

Method
 

  1. Perfect the Gnocchi Base: Bring salted water to a boil, cook gnocchi until they float (2–3 minutes), then drain and pat dry on a towel.
  2. Achieve Golden Perfection: Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add gnocchi in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Create Even Crispiness: Stir and cook another 2–3 minutes until evenly crisped on all sides.
  4. Build Aromatic Foundation: Lower heat to medium and sauté garlic for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
  5. Incorporate Fresh Greens: Add spinach and cook 2–3 minutes until wilted.
  6. Season and Finish: Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Remove from heat, stir in feta, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Serve as a main dish or appetizer with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon zest.
  • Reheat leftovers in a dry skillet for best crispiness.
  • Gnocchi can be pre-cooked and frozen for up to one month.