Description

This White Bean Gnocchi recipe features tender, pillowy gnocchi made primarily from creamy canned white beans, combined with flour, egg, and olive oil for a protein-rich, flavorful dish. Perfectly cooked by boiling and then sautéed to a golden crisp, these gnocchi offer a deliciously light yet satisfying comfort food option that can be customized with fresh herbs and your favorite sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

Gnocchi Dough

1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
3/4 cup all-purpose flour, plus more as needed
1 large egg
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Optional

1 tablespoon fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme), chopped
Olive oil for sautéing

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Instructions

Prepare the Beans: Drain and rinse the canned white beans thoroughly. Use a food processor to pulse the beans until you achieve a smooth, creamy paste. Alternatively, mash the beans by hand until no lumps remain.
Make the Dough: Transfer the bean paste to a large mixing bowl. Add flour, egg, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix gently until a cohesive dough forms. Adjust with a little more flour if the dough feels sticky, but avoid overworking it.
Roll and Shape the Gnocchi: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a log about 1 inch thick. Cut into 1-inch pieces using a knife or bench scraper. Optionally, roll each piece over the back of a fork to create indentations for classic gnocchi texture.
Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. When the gnocchi float to the surface, allow them to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove and set aside.
Sauté the Gnocchi: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked gnocchi and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until they develop a golden-brown and slightly crispy exterior on the edges.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the gnocchi hot, drizzled with olive oil or topped with your favorite sauce and fresh herbs. Enjoy the comforting, tender bites of this protein-packed gnocchi.

Notes

Adjust the flour quantity based on the moisture content of your beans to get the right dough consistency.
Rolling gnocchi over a fork is optional but adds a traditional texture that helps sauces cling better.
Use a gentle hand when mixing to avoid tough gnocchi.
Fresh herbs add great flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
Cook gnocchi in batches to prevent sticking and uneven cooking.
Sautéing after boiling provides a delightful crispy contrast.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian