Gnudi Recipe America’s Test Kitchen: Silky Pasta Dumplings in 30 Minutes

There’s something truly special about the silky texture of gnudi, those delightful dumplings that feel like a hug for your taste buds. This recipe brings the essence of Italy right to your kitchen in just 30 minutes. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your meal rotation.

What sets this dish apart is the rich ricotta and spinach filling, perfectly balanced with a hint of nutmeg. The simple preparation process will have you shaping these little pillows of goodness in no time, making it a rewarding experience even for busy weeknights.

Imagine serving these to your family or friends, their eyes lighting up as they take the first bite of tender dumplings coated in a light sauce. The combination of flavors and textures creates a memorable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

This dish pairs beautifully with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of parmesan, making it versatile for any occasion. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this easy yet elegant creation!

Ingredients for Gnudi Recipe America’s Test Kitchen

Short list. Big flavor. These delightful dumplings are a fantastic addition to any meal.

The ricotta is the heart of these dumplings. Whole milk ricotta gives you that creamy texture, while fresh spinach adds a pop of color and flavor. Most grocery stores stock it, but Costco often has the best prices on large containers. For the eggs, make sure they’re at room temperature—they blend in better and help bind everything together nicely.

No fresh spinach? Frozen works in a pinch—just thaw and drain it well. If you’re out of ricotta, try cottage cheese, but blend it first for a smoother texture. The nutmeg is key; if you don’t have whole nutmeg, a dash of ground will do, but be careful not to overdo it. Don’t skip the salt; it brings out the flavors in your filling.

These dumplings freeze well—just shape and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a bag. They’ll last about 3 months. When reheating, drop them straight into boiling water from frozen; they’ll be ready when they float. Enjoy leftovers within 3-4 days in the fridge.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Silky Pasta Dumplings

Follow these simple steps to create delicious, silky dumplings that are sure to impress.

👨‍🍳 Step 1: Prepare the Spinach and Ricotta Mixture

Start by bringing a medium pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the 2 cups of fresh spinach and blanch for about 1 minute. This helps soften the spinach and brightens its color. After blanching, drain the spinach and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Squeeze out any excess moisture before chopping it finely.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach with 1.5 cups of ricotta cheese, 1 whole egg, 0.25 tsp of nutmeg, 1 tsp of salt, and 0.5 tsp of black pepper. I like to mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy. The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that complements the ricotta beautifully.

🥘 Step 2: Form the Dumplings

Next, gradually add 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour to your ricotta mixture, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. You might not need all the flour, so keep an eye on the texture. The dough should be sticky but manageable. If it feels too wet, sprinkle in a little more flour until it holds together.

With lightly floured hands, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls about the size of a golf ball. Place the formed dumplings on a floured surface, making sure they’re not touching each other. This prevents them from sticking together while they cook.

⏰ Step 3: Boil the Dumplings

Bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a large pot and add a pinch of salt. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water, making sure not to overcrowd the pot—cook them in batches if necessary. They should float to the surface after about 2-3 minutes, which indicates they’re done.

Once they float, let them cook for another 1-2 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the dumplings, allowing excess water to drain off. Place them on a plate and cover with a clean towel to keep warm while you prepare the olive oil sauce.

🔥 Step 4: Prepare the Olive Oil Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 0.5 cup of olive oil. As it heats up, you can add some fresh herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor if you like. Once the oil is shimmering, gently add the cooked dumplings to the skillet.

Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re lightly golden and heated through. This step adds a lovely texture and enhances their flavor with that rich olive oil finish.

🍽️ Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Transfer the dumplings to serving plates and sprinkle with 0.5 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. I like to serve them warm, drizzling any remaining olive oil from the skillet over the top for added richness. Enjoy these delightful dumplings with your favorite side salad or as a delicious main course!

Storing and Reheating This Dish

Refrigerator Storage

After cooking, allow your dumplings to cool for no more than 2 hours. I recommend transferring them to an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This way, you can enjoy leftovers without sacrificing flavor! 🥡

Freezer Storage

If you want to keep your gnudi for longer, freezing is a great option. Lay the dumplings out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. They’ll stay good for about 3 months! ❄️

Reheating Methods

The best way to reheat gnudi is to drop them directly into boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until they float. This method helps maintain their soft texture. Alternatively, you can sauté them in a skillet with a bit of olive oil for a crispy exterior, which adds a delightful twist! 🔥

Flavor Adjustments

When reheating,

Frequently Asked Questions