GNOCCHI ALLA SORRENTINA (POTATO GNOCCHI WITH MOZZARELLA & TOMATOES)

Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 45 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

• 1 medium-sized dry potato (e.g., Russet)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• Pinch of salt
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• A sprig of basil

For the Sorrentina Sauce

• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 2 oz (60 g) mozzarella, cubed
• A few basil leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup (30 g) Parmesan cheese, divided

Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare the Gnocchi

1. Cook the Potato:
   • Wash the potato and boil it in salted water for about 30 minutes, until cooked through.
2. Mash and Cool:
   • Once the potato is cool enough to handle, peel and mash it with a potato ricer. Spread the mash on a floured surface to cool.
3. Make the Dough:
   • Form a well in the center of the mashed potato. Add the egg yolk, salt, and olive oil.
   • Sprinkle some flour around the outer edge and begin mixing gently with your hands.
   • Gradually incorporate the flour until you achieve a soft, non-sticky dough. Adjust the flour as needed.
4. Shape the Gnocchi:
   • Roll the dough into a ball, flatten slightly, and cut into 5–6 pieces.
   • Roll each piece into a thin log, about the thickness of a hot dog.
   • Cut the logs into 1/2-inch pieces. Using your thumb, roll each piece over the tines of a fork to create ridges.

2. Cook the Gnocchi

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the gnocchi in batches, stirring gently to prevent sticking.
3. Cook until they rise to the surface, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Remove with a slotted spoon or kitchen spider and transfer to a frying pan with a little tomato sauce at the bottom.

3. Assemble and Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Add shredded mozzarella and a few basil sprigs to the gnocchi in the pan.
3. Sauté for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
4. Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese before serving.

Tips

• Flour Amount: Add flour gradually to prevent over-drying the dough. The dough should be soft but manageable.
• Make Ahead: Gnocchi can be made in advance and frozen before cooking.
• Tomato Sauce: Use high-quality canned tomatoes or homemade tomato sauce for the best flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Buon Appetito!
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, a classic Italian dish that will transport you straight to the sunny streets of Sorrento.

Enjoy this hearty meal with family and friends!