Crispy Gnocchi and Brussels Sprouts

Well this was absolutely delicious! I've never made gnocchi in this way before, but I definitely will be again. Instead of boiling, the gnocchi is pan seared and then allowed to plump up, leading to a soft, pillowy inside but a slightly crisp and therefore intensely flavored outside. It's gnocchi at it's best.

In this case, it's paired with some crisp-tender brussels sprouts and an olive oil-brown butter sauce, but you could use the same technique with other sauces, pairings, and toppings. Give this one a whirl and let me know if you come up with other great combinations.

And - the best part of this meal? My eight year old daughter couldn't stop eating the brussels sprouts. She tentatively tried one, and then went back for more and more and more. It's kid approved!

Time: 20 min

Crispy Gnocchi and Brussels Sprouts

Ingredients:

4 tbsp olive oil

12 oz brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

1/4 tsp sea salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp ground lemon peel

1/8 tsp red pepper flakes

16 oz refrigerated gnocchi

6 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into tbsps

1/2 tsp honey

Heat three tbsp of the olive oil in a large pan (I used 12") over medium high heat. Add the brussels sprouts with the cut sides down, and sprinkle with the salt, 1/8 tsp black pepper, and lemon peel. Let them cook for five minutes, undisturbed, so the cut sides lightly brown and crisp up. Sprinkle on the red pepper, if using, and then toss well. Let them cook another four minutes. Then move to a bowl.

Return the pan to the heat. Add the remaining one tbsp olive oil, swirling to coat. Break the gnocchi apart and add it to the pan. Cook three to four minutes or until one side is lightly browned. Add the butter, honey, and remaining 1/8 tsp black pepper. Stir regularly and cook for about two minutes or until butter has melted and is foaming and turning lightly caramel colored. Remove from the heat and add the brussels sprouts back in. Toss well to coat the veggies and mix everything evenly. Then enjoy - and try not to let my daughter eat all the brussels sprouts before you get to try them!