Gnocchi Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe
This refreshing Gnocchi Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette features golden pan-fried potato gnocchi tossed with fresh arugula, basil, cherry tomatoes, and creamy avocado, all dressed in a bright and tangy lemon vinaigrette. A sprinkle of vegan Parmesan cheese adds a delightful savory finish to this vibrant, easy-to-make salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 (16 ounce/454 gram) package shelf-stable potato gnocchi
- 4 ounces arugula
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium avocado, diced
- 4 tablespoons vegan Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Vinaigrette
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped shallot
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the gnocchi: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the gnocchi in an even layer and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Remove the gnocchi from the skillet and transfer to a plate to cool.
- Prepare the dressing: While the gnocchi cools, combine the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, finely chopped shallot, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and salt in a mason jar or a small container with a lid. Shake vigorously until well mixed. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, place the arugula, chopped basil, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced avocado. Add the cooled gnocchi to the bowl.
- Toss with dressing and season: Drizzle the salad with your desired amount of the lemon vinaigrette dressing. Sprinkle with vegan Parmesan cheese if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Plate the salad and serve immediately, enjoying the fresh flavors and contrasting textures.
Notes
- Note 1: Allow the gnocchi to cool slightly before adding to the salad to prevent wilting the greens and avocado.
- Note 2: Adjust the amount of dressing to your preference for a lighter or more richly coated salad.
