Succotash-Inspired Gnocchi

Jump to Recipe

Succotash-Inspired Gnocchi brings together the best of both worlds: the heartiness of classic gnocchi with the freshness and richness of Southern succotash. This recipe is a fusion of flavors and textures that’s perfect for a family dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests. The combination of creamy gnocchi, tender vegetables, and a savory sauce makes for a hearty yet light meal that will have everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is an absolute winner for several reasons:

• Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and a one-pan cooking method, it’s a great weeknight option.
• Packed with Veggies: Fresh vegetables like corn, lima beans, and bell peppers add not only flavor but also vibrant color and texture.
• Customizable: You can easily add your favorite proteins or switch up the vegetables.
• Creamy Comfort: The luscious cream sauce brings everything together in a way that’s comforting yet not heavy.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less mess and cleanup!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this delicious dish:

• 1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade): Forms the soft and chewy base of this dish.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the veggies and adding healthy fat.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatic and flavorful.
• 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels: For a bit of sweetness and texture.
• 1 cup lima beans: Offers a creamy, hearty texture that complements the gnocchi.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds a juicy burst of flavor.
• 1 bell pepper, diced: For a crisp, colorful addition.
• 1/2 cup vegetable stock: Builds the foundation for the sauce and adds a savory base.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative): To make the sauce smooth and creamy.
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (or vegan cheese): Adds a nutty, salty finish.
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped: Fresh herbs to garnish and add a burst of flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions or until they float in boiling water. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add the corn, lima beans, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
Step 4: Pour in the vegetable stock and heavy cream. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, mixing well to coat them with the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Stir everything together, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to combine.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Succotash-Inspired Gnocchi as a standalone dish or pair it with a light salad for a complete meal. It’s also delicious with a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for added heartiness. For a complete Southern-inspired meal, serve alongside cornbread or garlic bread.

Variation

• Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crumbled bacon can be added to the dish for more protein.
• Use different vegetables: Swap out the lima beans or bell peppers for zucchini, spinach, or peas, depending on what’s in season or your preferences.
• Make it vegan: Replace the cream with coconut milk or another dairy-free alternative, and use vegan cheese instead of Parmesan.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a little extra cream or vegetable stock to bring back the creamy texture. This dish can also be frozen for up to 1 month; just make sure it’s well-wrapped before freezing. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

FAQ

Can I use frozen gnocchi? : Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe. Just cook them directly from frozen according to the package instructions.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? : Yes, you can prepare everything up to Step 5 and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat and finish the dish.
Can I use different vegetables? : Absolutely! You can customize the veggies based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Try spinach, peas, or even butternut squash for a different flavor profile.