Delicious Cauliflower Gnocchi with Homemade Pesto and Sun-dried Tomatoes

Indulge yourself in the flavors of this amazing cauliflower gnocchi dish with a homemade pesto sauce and the rich taste of sun-dried tomatoes. The delicate cauliflower gnocchi pairs perfectly with the vibrant and fresh basil pesto, while the sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of intense flavor. This recipe is quick and easy to make, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the taste of Italy with this healthy and delicious twist on traditional gnocchi!

Ingredients

• 1 cauliflower head
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 egg, beaten
• 3 cups fresh basil leaves
• ¼ cup pine nuts
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Directions

1. Begin by preparing the cauliflower. Cut it into florets and steam until tender, around 10 minutes. Let it cool down and then transfer it to a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
2. Place the squeezed cauliflower in a large mixing bowl and add the flour and beaten egg. Mix until well combined. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
3. Sprinkle some flour on a clean surface and transfer the dough onto it. Knead it gently for a minute or two, adding more flour if needed, until it is soft and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into smaller portions and roll each portion into a long, thin rope, about 1/2 inch thick. Cut the rope into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
5. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, and lemon juice. Pulse until the mixture becomes a smooth and creamy pesto sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become slightly softer.
7. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and carefully drop the gnocchi pieces into the water. Cook until they float to the surface, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with sun-dried tomatoes.
8. Add the homemade pesto sauce to the skillet and gently toss the gnocchi until they are evenly coated. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
9. Serve the cauliflower gnocchi with pesto and sun-dried tomatoes in individual bowls. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor.
10. Enjoy your homemade cauliflower gnocchi with a glass of your favorite wine and savor the delicious combination of flavors!

Interesting Facts