Spring Asparagus Gnocchi Recipe
When spring comes knocking at the door, it brings with it the gifts of the earth: asparagus. Here, I present to you a dish that celebrates this seasonal delight, transforming it into a meeting of flavors and textures, a fusion of rustic and refined elements.
Just imagine being able to turn simple ingredients like flour, eggs, and asparagus into something extraordinarily elegant. I’m talking about fluffy golden pillows paired with crispy green tips, a gustatory dance made even more intriguing by a hint of nutmeg and the creaminess of melted butter.
Childhood memories intertwine with the scent of freshly plowed fields when I used to prepare this dish with my grandmother; every bite was a plunge into the past. Today, it’s your turn to create unforgettable memories with this exquisite culinary symphony.
Among the pages of your gastronomic experience, a new chapter is about to be written: one where you are the main creator in the making of these delicate gnocchi enriched with spring vegetables. Get your taste buds ready to welcome this first course that delights both the eyes and the palate!
Recipe Notes
- SIMPLICITY: Easy to whip up with just a few ingredients.
- PROS: Delicate and flavorful gnocchi with asparagus.
- CONS: Requires attention when cooking the gnocchi.
- PREPARATION: Quick and straightforward, ready in 30 minutes.
- NUTRITIONAL NOTES: Approximately 600 calories per serving.
Notes on the Ingredients for the Recipe
- All-Purpose Flour: choose a high-quality flour for light and fluffy gnocchi
- Butter: essential for the texture and flavor of the gnocchi
- Eggs: add softness and bind the ingredients together
- Boiled Asparagus Tips: add a springtime color and flavor to the gnocchi
- Double Concentrated Tomato Paste: adds a touch of color and flavor to the pasta
- Grated Nutmeg: adds a warm and comforting aroma to the gnocchi
- Salt to taste: adjusts the taste of the dough and the cooking water for the gnocchi
Nutritional aspects
Let’s dive into the nutritional value of this recipe for asparagus gnocchi.
- Packed with complex carbohydrates from the white flour.
- A good source of protein from the eggs.
- Loaded with vitamins and minerals from the boiled asparagus.
- Moderate in calories, around 600 Kcal per portion.
- Butter as a source of saturated fats, so enjoy it in moderation.
- Nutmeg adds flavor without adding extra calories.
Recipe for Egg Gnocchi with Asparagus
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt 100 g of butter cut into pieces in 250 ml of water over medium heat with a pinch of salt.
- As soon as the butter is completely melted, pour all the flour in at once, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon to avoid lumps.
- Continue stirring until you have a homogeneous dough and let it dry for a few minutes, until it starts to come off the sides of the pot.
- Add the tomato paste and mix until you get a uniform color, then turn off the heat.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is well absorbed before adding the next.
- Fill a pastry bag with a smooth tip with the dough and form the gnocchi directly in the boiling salted water, cutting the dough to the desired length.
- Drain the gnocchi as soon as they come to the surface and sauté them in a pan with the remaining 50 g of butter, the boiled asparagus tips, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Notes
Variations of Egg Gnocchi with Asparagus
Try these variations to customize the recipe:
- Sprinkle some grated cheese over the gnocchi for an extra burst of flavor.
- Swap the asparagus tips with fresh peas for a springtime twist.
- Opt for crispy bacon instead of butter for a bolder flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Recipe
If you’re unsure about the preparation, here are some helpful answers!
How can I prevent the gnocchi from becoming too tough?
Make sure not to overwork the dough and only cook the gnocchi until they float to the surface.
Can I substitute asparagus tips with another type of vegetable?
Yes, you can swap the asparagus tips with fresh peas or green beans for a different but equally delicious twist.
How can I make the recipe lighter in terms of calories?
You can reduce the amount of butter and replace it with olive oil for a lighter version of the gnocchi.