Gnocchi with Quick Romesco Sauce for a Flavorful Dinner Bliss

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s something incredibly comforting about the sound of gnocchi sizzling in a skillet, and the anticipation of a delicious meal just filling the air. This Easy Vegetarian Gnocchi with Quick Romesco Sauce transports me to a sun-drenched Italian kitchen, where fresh flavors and vibrant colors reign supreme. One evening, overwhelmed by a hectic week, I set out to create something quick yet impressive, and this dish emerged as my culinary savior.

With just under 30 minutes to prepare, this meal strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. Imagine pillowy gnocchi surrounded by a creamy, nutty Romesco sauce, all topped with a delightful crunch. It s an effortless expression of love and warmth, whether it s a weeknight family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Get ready to bring a little Italian flair to your table with this savory delight that promises to turn any meal into a celebration!

Why will you love this Gnocchi with Quick Romesco Sauce?

Quick to prepare: You can whip this dish up in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
Elevated flavors: The creamy Romesco sauce beautifully complements the rich texture of the gnocchi.
Versatile: Mix and match veggies or swap ingredients to suit your taste or what s in your pantry!
Crowd-pleaser: Impressive yet easy, it s sure to wow family and friends at any gathering.
Nutritious: Packed with healthy fats and fresh veggies, this dish nourishes both body and soul.
Comfort food redefined: With its crispy topping and gooey goodness, it s a comforting dish you ll crave again and again!

Gnocchi with Quick Romesco Sauce Ingredients

For the Gnocchi
Gnocchi Soft and pillowy, choose fresh gnocchi for the best texture.

For the Romesco Sauce
Olive Oil Essential for sautéing and emulsifying the sauce; avocado oil is a tasty alternative.
Capsicums (Bell Peppers) Sweet and colorful, they form the rich base of the Romesco; consider using roasted ones for extra depth.
Almonds These add creaminess and a nutty richness to the sauce; feel free to swap with cashews or walnuts if desired.
Garlic Fresh cloves enhance the flavor beautifully; avoid pre-minced and opt for freshly crushed instead.
Red Wine Vinegar Adds a tangy punch; lemon juice or apple cider vinegar work well as substitutes.
Sugar Serves to mellow out the acidity from the vinegar; omit if cutting back on sugar.
Fresh Basil Imparts aromatic freshness; substitute with parsley if basil isn t on hand.

For Topping
Breadcrumbs They give a delightful crunch on top; gluten-free options can easily be used here.
Cheese (Perfection Melt) This ooey-gooey cheese takes the dish to the next level; mozzarella or a vegan cheese can be great alternatives for a non-dairy option.

How to Make Gnocchi with Quick Romesco Sauce

1. Preheat your oven to 220 °C (200 °C fan-forced) to ensure it s hot and ready for baking. This crucial first step helps achieve that perfect golden top!
2. Heat ¼ cup of olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Allow it to shimmer, which indicates it s ready for the gnocchi.
3. Add the gnocchi to the skillet, cooking and stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes until they turn golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them for that beautiful color!
4. Blend the drained capsicums with additional olive oil, almonds, garlic, red wine vinegar, sugar, and basil in a food processor until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, tasting to adjust the flavors.
5. Pour the vibrant Romesco sauce over the cooked gnocchi, stirring to coat them well. If you like a thinner sauce, simply add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Combine the breadcrumbs with cheese and sprinkle the mixture generously over the gnocchi. This topping will give you that delightful crunch when baked!
7. Bake for 15 minutes or until the topping is golden and bubbling. The aroma will be tantalizing, so be prepared for your kitchen to smell divine!
8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil. Pair it with a light salad of rocket, apple, and parmesan for a complete meal.

Optional: Drizzle a little extra olive oil on top for added richness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Gnocchi with Quick Romesco Sauce

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help keep the flavors fresh and the gnocchi tender.

Freezer: To freeze, place the cooled gnocchi and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Portion out servings for easy reheating!

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the sauce is too thick.

What to Serve with Gnocchi with Quick Romesco Sauce?

Transform your delightful dish into a full meal that tantalizes the senses and warms the heart.

• Arugula Salad: This fresh salad sprinkled with shaved parmesan adds a peppery crunch and a refreshing contrast to the creamy gnocchi.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery, and infused with herbs, this classic pairing is perfect for soaking up every bit of the vibrant Romesco sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful and caramelized veggies like zucchini and bell peppers enhance nutrition and create a beautiful, hearty side.
• Grilled Asparagus: The tender-crisp texture pairs beautifully, and the light char brings out an earthy flavor perfectly balancing the creamy sauce.
• Cheesy Baked Polenta: This comforting dish offers a different texture and flavor, creating a wholesome Italian experience that complements the gnocchi beautifully.
• Lemonade Spritzers: For a refreshing drink, these tangy spritzers cleanse your palate and bring a touch of sparkle to your meal.
• Tiramisu: End your dinner on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, combining espresso-soaked layers and creamy mascarpone for the perfect finish.
• Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or other light-bodied red wine brings harmony to the meal, enhancing the flavors of the Romesco sauce and the gnocchi.

Gnocchi with Quick Romesco Sauce Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own; the possibilities are endless!

• Pasta Swap: Substitute gnocchi with penne or fusilli for a different texture and experience. Each shape offers a unique bite that pairs beautifully with the sauce.
• Veggie Boost: Add sautéed spinach or zucchini to the gnocchi for a nutrient-packed twist. Not only do they increase the nutritional value, but they also add a burst of color!
• Spicy Kick: Stir in chili flakes or diced jalapeños into the Romesco sauce for a fiery flavor enhancement. This little addition can elevate your dining experience to new heights!
• Nut-Free: Replace almonds with sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative that still provides a nice crunch and creamy texture. They add a delightful nuance while catering to those with allergies.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano instead of basil to create new flavor profiles. Fresh herbs can radically transform the dish, giving it your unique signature.
• Cheese Alternatives: Use feta or goat cheese in place of the cheese topping for a tangy twist that pairs well with the Romesco sauce. The creaminess of these cheeses adds a delightful contrast!
• Creamy Addition: Incorporate a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk into the Romesco sauce for a richer, velvety consistency. This makes the sauce wonderfully luxurious.
• Caramelized Onions: Sauté onions until caramelized to add a sweet depth of flavor to your dish. Mix them into the sauce or sprinkle them on top for an extra layer of delight.

Tips for the Best Gnocchi with Quick Romesco Sauce

• Perfect Sautéing: Ensure the gnocchi is crispy by cooking them in a well-heated skillet, turning them until golden brown, which enhances their texture.
• Texture Control: Adjust the water in the Romesco sauce according to your preference for thickness; a splash more will yield a looser sauce, ideal for spooning over gnocchi.
• Flavor Tuning: Taste the sauce before pouring it over the gnocchi; balance with salt and pepper, ensuring a well-rounded flavor profile.
• Baking Watch: Keep an eye on the baking process to prevent the breadcrumb topping from burning golden, not dark brown, is the goal.
• Ingredient Flexibility: Don t hesitate to swap out ingredients based on pantry availability. This Gnocchi with Quick Romesco Sauce can handle creative substitutions!

Make Ahead Options

Prepare for effortless weeknight dinners with this Easy Vegetarian Gnocchi with Quick Romesco Sauce! You can make the Romesco sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the gnocchi, you can sauté and assemble everything in the skillet, refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, and then simply pop it in the oven to bake when ready to serve. To maintain the quality of the dish, keep the breadcrumbs separate until just before baking to ensure they stay crispy. When ready to enjoy, sprinkle the breadcrumbs and cheese on top, bake until golden, and experience that fresh, savory goodness with minimal effort!

Gnocchi with Quick Romesco Sauce Recipe FAQs

What is the best type of gnocchi to use?
Absolutely, fresh gnocchi is ideal for this dish due to its soft and pillowy texture. However, if fresh isn t available, store-bought gnocchi works well too. Just ensure it s cooked until golden brown for that perfect outer crispiness!

How should I store leftovers of Gnocchi with Quick Romesco Sauce?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps keep the flavors vibrant. If you have a sizable batch, consider dividing it into portions to make reheating easier.

Can I freeze Gnocchi with Quick Romesco Sauce?
Certainly! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you re ready to enjoy it, thaw the mixture in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of water if the sauce is too thick.

How can I adjust the sauce if it s too thick?
If you find the Romesco sauce too thick, simply add a little water, broth, or an extra splash of olive oil while reheating until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir it gently while warming to ensure the flavors blend beautifully.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This Gnocchi with Quick Romesco Sauce is vegetarian, but it can be made vegan by using a non-dairy cheese substitute. Also, if you have nut allergies, feel free to swap out the almonds with sunflower seeds for a similar creamy texture. Just remember to check all your ingredient labels!

What if I can t find capsicums/bell peppers?
If capsicums are unavailable, you can substitute them with roasted tomatoes or a mix of other sweet peppers. Roasted red peppers can offer a similar sweetness to the Romesco sauce, giving your dish a delightful twist.