Ricotta and Lemon Gnocchi for Two

Name: Ricotta and Lemon Gnocchi for Two
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting); Zest of 1 lemon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Freshly cracked black pepper; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 garlic clove, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh herbs (like basil or parsley) for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Ricotta and Lemon Gnocchi for Two. This dish is light yet satisfying, and it brings a touch of elegance to any meal. The combination of creamy ricotta and zesty lemon creates a delightful flavor that dances on the palate. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner date or a simple weeknight meal. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes to prepare, making it accessible even on busy days. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:22:08.123Z

In my quest to create the perfect gnocchi, I stumbled upon a delightful blend of refreshing lemon and creamy ricotta. It was a culinary experiment that turned out to be a game changer for our dinner routine. The key was in using fresh ingredients, which elevated the flavors and made the dish exceptionally vibrant.

What I love most about this recipe is the simplicity of the method. By mixing the ricotta with just the right amount of lemon zest and flour, I created tender dumplings that cook perfectly in boiling water. A tip I discovered is to let the dough rest for a bit; it makes shaping the gnocchi easier and enhances their texture!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and creamy texture with a hint of citrus
Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights
A sophisticated dish that impresses without the fuss

      

Understanding Gnocchi Dough

Ricotta gnocchi dough is distinctively different from potato gnocchi due to its creamy texture and lighter bite. The key to achieving the right consistency is careful measurement. Using too much flour can lead to dense gnocchi, while too little will result in a sticky mess. Aim for a soft, pliable dough that holds together without being overly sticky. As you incorporate the flour, add it gradually; you want the dough to be just sticky enough to shape, but firm enough to hold its form during cooking.

Resting the dough for about 10 minutes is crucial, as it allows the gluten in the flour to relax. This rest period not only makes the dough easier to handle but also improves the texture of your gnocchi. During this time, it’s ideal to prepare your cooking water by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. This ensures that you're ready to cook your gnocchi as soon as they're shaped, preserving their freshness and lightness.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

When boiling the gnocchi, keep an eye on them; they will float to the surface when they’re done, typically within 2-3 minutes. If you let them cook too long, they can become mushy. I like to test one piece first to ensure it has the right texture before removing the rest. Use a slotted spoon for this, as it allows the excess water to drain away, keeping your gnocchi light and fluffy as you move them to the next step.

Once cooked, be sure to handle them gently. Tossing them in the skillet with the sauce should be done with care, making sure they are coated without excessive stirring, which can break them apart. The butter creates a glossy sheen on the gnocchi and the addition of lemon juice not only provides a bright flavor but also helps to enhance the textures, creating a beautiful dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your gnocchi:

Gnocchi Ingredients

1 cup ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
Zest of 1 lemon
1/2 teaspoon salt
Freshly cracked black pepper

Sauce Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 garlic clove, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh herbs (like basil or parsley) for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your gnocchi:

Make the Dough

In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overwork it. Let it rest for 10 minutes.

Shape the Gnocchi

On a floured surface, divide the dough into small portions. Roll each piece into a rope about 1/2 inch thick, then cut into bite-sized pieces. Use a fork to create ridges on each piece for sauce adherence.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add gnocchi and cook until they float, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add lemon juice and toss in the cooked gnocchi, ensuring they are well-coated in the sauce.

Serve

Plate the gnocchi, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy your sumptuous meal!

Dig in and savor every bite of your delicious gnocchi!

Pro Tips

For extra richness, consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top. You can also experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten up this dish, you can substitute part-skim ricotta cheese for a slightly lower-fat option without sacrificing too much creaminess. Alternatively, for a dairy-free version, consider using cashew cream or a vegan ricotta made from blended tofu and nutritional yeast, which provides a similar texture and flavor profile.

For a gluten-free version, you can experiment with gluten-free all-purpose flour blends, which often include xanthan gum to help maintain structure. Keep in mind that these blends might absorb moisture differently, so you may need to adjust the amount of flour you use until you get a soft, workable dough.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ricotta and Lemon Gnocchi, consider pairing it with fresh vegetables or a light salad. A simple arugula salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette complements the gnocchi beautifully, adding some crispness to the meal. You could also serve it alongside grilled asparagus or sautéed spinach, which not only adds color but boosts the nutritional value of the dish.

For an extra touch of flavor, you can enhance the sauce with additional ingredients. A sprinkle of grated parmesan or a dash of red pepper flakes can bring a nice contrast to the creaminess. Adding a splash of white wine to the skillet after sautéing the garlic can deepen the flavor profile. Just let it simmer to reduce slightly before adding the gnocchi for a more robust sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I freeze gnocchi?

Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.

→ What can I serve with gnocchi?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make excellent side dishes.