Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi

Name: Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups gnocchi; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi for a delightful weekend meal. The combination of freshly cooked gnocchi, vibrant tomatoes, and fragrant basil creates a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated. It's perfect for sharing with family or enjoying as a special treat. By using simple ingredients and a few essential techniques, I can whip up this meal in under an hour, bringing warmth and joy to our table. Trust me; this dish will become a new favorite in your home too!

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:40:18.781Z

Recently, I decided to perfect my homemade gnocchi recipe, and the result was a heavenly Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi. The key was using the right potatoes; I learned that starchy Russet potatoes yield the best texture, making the gnocchi light and fluffy.

I paired the gnocchi with a simple yet flavorful sauce made from sun-ripened tomatoes and fresh basil. I skip the long simmering times for the sauce, opting instead for fresh ingredients that burst with flavor. This way, the meal is not only quick but also retains the vibrancy of each ingredient.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously tender gnocchi that captures the essence of Italian cuisine
Fresh, vibrant flavors that brighten up any dining table
Quick and simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests

      

Understanding Gnocchi

Gnocchi are small Italian dumplings made from potatoes, flour, and sometimes egg. Their soft, pillowy texture makes them a perfect canvas for the flavors in this dish. It's vital to not overcook the gnocchi; they should be boiled just until they float, indicating they're done. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, which detracts from the overall dish. If you're feeling adventurous, homemade gnocchi can be made, but store-bought options are perfectly acceptable for a quick meal.

When choosing gnocchi, consider how they have been made. Some varieties are pre-seasoned or flavored, which can influence the dish's final taste. If using flavored gnocchi, you may want to adjust the amount of salt and other seasonings in the sauce to prevent overpowering the fresh tomato and basil flavors. Additionally, for a gluten-free option, look for gnocchi made from rice flour or other gluten-free grains.

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

The heart of this dish lies in its fresh ingredients, particularly the tomatoes and basil. Opt for ripe, in-season cherry tomatoes as they bring a natural sweetness that complements the savory components nicely. To enhance their flavor, roast them in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes as an alternative cooking method. This caramelization adds depth and a slightly smoky note to the dish.

Fresh basil elevates the dish with its aromatic qualities. For maximum flavor, tear the basil leaves instead of chopping them, as this releases more essential oils. If you want to prep ahead, consider storing chopped basil in a damp paper towel in the fridge to maintain freshness. And if fresh basil isn't available, a pinch of dried basil will work in a pinch, but use it sparingly, as dried herbs can be more concentrated.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi:

Ingredients

2 cups gnocchi
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving

Make sure to have everything ready for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi:

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes until they float. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper.

Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften.

Combine

Once the tomatoes are tender, gently fold in the cooked gnocchi and chopped basil. Stir to combine everything well, allowing the flavors to meld for an additional minute.

Serve

Plate the gnocchi, topping each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of extra basil if desired. Enjoy your delightful dish!

Don't forget to savor each bite of this lovely dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. This gives a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes beautifully.

Make-Ahead Tips

To streamline meal prep, you can cook the gnocchi and prepare the sauce in advance. Boil the gnocchi and let them cool on a baking sheet to prevent sticking, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. For the sauce, sauté the garlic and tomatoes, then let the mixture cool before refrigerating. Just combine when ready to serve, and you'll have a delightful meal in mere minutes.

Another option is to freeze the uncooked gnocchi. Just place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the cooking time. This speeds up busy weeknights while still delivering a homemade flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a delightful twist, try adding sautéed vegetables like zucchini or spinach to the dish for added nutrition and color. These can be stirred in during the last minute of cooking to maintain their vibrant textures. Additionally, consider serving the dish with crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette to round out your meal.

If you're looking for a protein boost, consider incorporating cooked shrimp or grilled chicken. Adding them can turn this side dish into a complete meal. Just toss them in at the end with the gnocchi to warm through. Alternatively, for a vegan option, substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi saves time, and you can still achieve delicious results.

→ How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I use other herbs instead of basil?

Yes, you can substitute basil with parsley or oregano for a different flavor profile.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free gnocchi made from alternative flours.