Cauliflower orange gnocchi is a deliciously light and zesty twist on the traditional Italian pasta, combining the earthy, mild flavor of cauliflower with a burst of bright citrus. This homemade gnocchi is made using a blend of cauliflower and flour, resulting in a tender and slightly chewy texture. The addition of orange zest and juice adds a refreshing and fragrant dimension to the dish, making it a perfect choice for a light yet satisfying meal. Paired with a simple sauce of brown butter, fresh sage, and a hint of garlic, this gnocchi offers a unique and flavorful experience that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Serve it as a delightful main course or a starter for an elegant dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Zest of 1 orange
- Juice of 1/2 orange
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6-8 fresh sage leaves
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Extra grated Parmesan (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until they are very tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and allow them to cool slightly. Use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the cauliflower to ensure the gnocchi holds together.
- Make the Gnocchi Dough:
- Transfer the drained cauliflower to a food processor and pulse until smooth. Place the cauliflower puree in a large mixing bowl. Add the flour, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, orange zest, and orange juice. Mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- Shape the Gnocchi:
- Dust a clean work surface with flour. Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope about 1/2-inch in diameter. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi. If desired, press each piece gently with a fork to create ridges.
- Cook the Gnocchi:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Cook the gnocchi for about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked gnocchi to a plate.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and fresh sage leaves. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is fragrant and the sage is crispy.
- Toss the Gnocchi:
- Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the butter sauce. Toss gently to coat the gnocchi in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the gnocchi to crisp slightly.
- Serve:
- Transfer the cauliflower orange gnocchi to serving plates. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy immediately while warm.
Cauliflower orange gnocchi is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the subtle taste of cauliflower with the brightness of orange zest, creating a light and refreshing meal. The simplicity of the brown butter and sage sauce enhances the gnocchi’s delicate flavors, making it a perfect choice for a comforting yet elegant dinner.
