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Crispy gnocchi fries with cheesy pesto dip on a wooden board.

Crispy Gnocchi Fries with Cheesy Pesto Dip

Elio Di Stefano
Transform traditional gnocchi into crispy, flavorful fries served with a decadent cheesy pesto dip, perfect for a fun twist on a classic dish.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • grater
  • Frying pan
  • Saucepan
  • spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Gnocchi
  • 1 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup Pesto sauce
  • 1 cup, shredded Mozzarella cheese
  • 2 large Eggs
  • 1/4 cup, chopped Fresh basil
  • 2 cloves, minced Garlic
  • To taste Salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Gnocchi Fries - Boil the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the top, then drain and let them cool slightly. In a bowl, mix the cooked gnocchi with breadcrumbs until they are well coated, then place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. - For extra crispy fries, you can parboil the gnocchi for a shorter time to ensure they hold their shape during baking. Additionally, try adding a sprinkle of grated parmesan to the breadcrumb coating for an added layer of flavor.
  • Bake the Gnocchi Fries - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the coated gnocchi fries for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden and crispy on the outside. - To amp up the flavor, consider seasoning the gnocchi fries with a pinch of garlic powder or paprika before baking for a tasty twist. Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure even browning.
  • Prepare the Cheesy Pesto Dip - In a saucepan, heat the pesto sauce over low heat, then add grated parmesan and shredded mozzarella, stirring until the cheeses are melted and combined. Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh basil and minced garlic. - For a tangy kick, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the cheesy pesto dip to brighten up the flavors. Adjust the cheese ratios based on your preference for a more gooey or stringy dip.
  • Serve and Enjoy - Serve the crispy gnocchi fries hot alongside the warm cheesy pesto dip for dipping and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures. - Garnish the dish with additional chopped fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and added herbaceous notes. Pair these gnocchi fries with a crisp white wine or a refreshing lemonade for a delightful meal.