What to Serve with Gorgonzola Gnocchi (7 Yummy Dishes)
Knowing what to serve as a side dish for gorgonzola gnocchi can be tough. This dish is delicious, but finding a side that will complement its flavors can be tricky.
Believe me, I get it…
Before I became well versed in side dishes a few years ago, I was so excited to make a side dish for my wife’s birthday celebration. I wanted everything to be perfect! I chose a recipe for gorgonzola gnocchi that I had made before and was confident in my ability to follow the instructions.
On her birthday, I started cooking early in the morning, so I would have plenty of time to prepare everything. But, something went wrong.
The dish turned out to be a complete disaster!
Nonetheless, my wife was very understanding and said that it didn’t matter what the food looked like, as long as it tasted good. We both laughed and agreed that we would just have to make do with what we had.
On a plus side, the sides I prepared were all amazingly delicious dishes that complemented the flavors of the gorgonzola gnocchi. So, I decided to put my pride aside and share my list of the perfect side dishes for gorgonzola gnocchi.
Side Dishes for Gorgonzola Gnocchi
- Garlicky Oven Roasted Mushrooms
- Mediterranean Eggplant Chickpea Salad with Feta
- Sauteed Chewy Asparagus
- Cheesy Eggplant Parmesan
- White Bean Panzanella
- Crunchy Braised Kale
- Mediterranean Crispy Lentil Salad
Garlicky Oven Roasted Mushrooms
First on my list is a dish that is simple, yet so flavorful and satisfying, garlicky oven-roasted mushrooms. These roasted delights are an excellent side dish for Gorgonzola Gnocchi. The mushrooms are hearty and absorb all the flavors of the dish, while the garlic gives it a nice zing.
Typically, this side dish is prepared by using garlic-infused olive oil to roast the mushrooms. I used shiitake mushrooms, but feel free to use any type of mushroom you like. Next, I add them to the gnocchi. The result is a creamy, flavorful dish that is sure to please any mushroom lover.
Naturally, this side dish can also be used as a topping for salads or other pasta dishes. So go ahead and add some Garlicky Oven Roasted Mushrooms to your next meal, you’ll be glad you did.
Mediterranean Eggplant Chickpea Salad with Feta
This next side dish is a Mediterranean Eggplant Chickpea Salad with Feta. It’s truly a great way to add some color and nutrition to your meal. Plus, it is filled with healthy ingredients, yet it is still hearty enough to be a filling side dish.
Moreover, the star of this salad is the eggplants. While I like to use Italian eggplants, you can really use any type of eggplant you like.
In preparation, the eggplant is roasted and then combined with chickpeas, tomatoes, feta cheese, and a variety of seasonings. The result is a salad that is both healthy and delicious.
This salad can be served as a side dish or as a main course. It is perfect for a summer meal, but can really be enjoyed any time of year.
Sauteed Chewy Asparagus
Up next is Sauteed Chewy Asparagus. Without reserve, Asparagus is a great vegetable to have on hand, as it is both nutritious and delicious. Plus, it is a great source of fiber.
In this dish, the asparagus is sauteed in olive oil and garlic. I like to use fresh asparagus, but you can also use frozen. Also, from my experience, the key is to not overcook the asparagus, so it retains its crunch. Personally, I like my vegetables chewy, and asparagus is the perfect balance of crunchy and chewy.
Beyond that, sauteed chewy asparagus goes really well with Gorgonzola gnocchi. The sharpness of the cheese helps to offset the sweetness of the asparagus, and the creaminess of the sauce ties everything together nicely.
Of course, you could also serve this as a main dish by adding some grilled chicken or shrimp. But however you choose to enjoy it, sauteed asparagus is a delicious and healthy way to add some flavor to your meal.
Cheesy Eggplant Parmesan
Now, who doesn’t love a classic Italian dish like Cheesy Eggplant Parmesan? And what could make it even better?
Why, serving it as a side dish for Gorgonzola Gnocchi, of course!
The rich, creamy flavor of the gnocchi pairs perfectly with the slightly sweet and savory taste of the eggplant. Plus, the eggplant provides a nice contrast in texture, making this dish even more enjoyable.
So, to prepare this delectable side dish, simply slice the eggplant into thin slices and then bread them with a mixture of bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese. Next, bake the eggplant slices until they are golden brown. Finally, top with a generous helping of your favorite tomato sauce, and enjoy!
Additionally, Eggplant Parmesan is great as a main course or as an appetizer. Hence irrespective of needing a tasty side dish or a delicious entrée, this Eggplant Parmesan is sure to hit the spot.
White Bean Panzanella
Following that, is a White Bean Panzanella which is a great dish for those who are looking for a lighter side dish option.
But, why does it go well as a side dish?
First of all, it’s packed with flavor. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and hearty white beans is simply irresistible. Plus, the acidity of the tomatoes and vinegar helps to balance out the richness of the gnocchi and sauce. And finally, the breadcrumbs add a nice crunch that takes this dish to the next level.
So, how is this side dish prepared?
It’s actually incredibly easy, just mix together all of the ingredients (breadcrumbs, tomatoes, cucumbers, white beans, vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper) in a large bowl. Then let it sit for a few minutes so that the flavors can meld together. And that’s it! You’re now ready to enjoy a truly delicious side dish.
Crunchy Braised Kale
Yet another of my favorites is Crunchy Braised Kale and this is a winner for those who are looking for a healthy and flavorful side dish.
Likewise, kale helps to cut through the richness of the dish. and it also adds a pop of color. Plus, kale is packed with nutrients, so you can feel good about serving it as a side dish. To prepare the kale, simply braise it in a bit of olive oil until it is tender. Then, add some salt and pepper to taste.
The first time I served crispy braised kale as a side dish, I was surprised at how much my family enjoyed it. They loved the crunch and the flavor. And I have to admit, I was pretty impressed with how well it went with the Gorgonzola gnocchi.
Mediterranean Crispy Lentil Salad
Last, but not least, this stack of flavor-packed, crispy lentils is a show-stopping side that’s sure to leave your guests asking for seconds. And, since it pairs so well with gorgonzola gnocchi, we suggest you make a double batch!
If I must say, the creamy richness of the gnocchi is the perfect complement to the bright and tangy flavors of the salad. But this dish is more than just a pretty face; it’s also healthy and nutritious.
Subsequently, lentils are an excellent source of fiber and protein, making them a perfect addition to any meal. Plus, they’re low in calories and fat, so you can indulge without guilt.
By the way, to make this dish even healthier, you can swap out the traditional oil-based dressing for a light vinaigrette made with olive oil and lemon juice. So go ahead and enjoy seconds… I won’t tell!
FAQ
What kind of sauce goes well with gnocchi?
There are many different types of sauces that go well with gnocchi. Some popular options include tomato sauce, Alfredo sauce, pesto sauce, and even a simple butter and garlic sauce.
Is it better to boil or fry gnocchi?
Personally, I prefer to pan-fry my gnocchi after giving them a quick boil. I find that this gives them a crispy exterior while still maintaining a fluffy interior. However, you can boil them for a longer period of time if you prefer a softer texture.
What is the best way to cook frozen gnocchi?
To cook frozen gnocchi, simply add them to boiling water and cook until they float to the surface. This usually takes about two to three minutes. Once they’re cooked, you can add them to your favorite sauce or enjoy them as is with a bit of butter and Parmesan cheese.
What is the best way to eat gnocchi?
There really is no wrong way to eat gnocchi. However, I find that they pair well with a variety of sauces, vegetables, and proteins. So feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations. You might just find your new favorite way to enjoy this delicious dish!
Conclusion
In a nutshell, these are some of my favorite side dishes to serve with Gorgonzola gnocchi. What have you got to lose by giving one or more of these a try? I promise, your taste buds will be grateful!
And, who knows, you might just find a new favorite way to enjoy this classic dish. Your cookouts will never be the same!