Chickpea Gnocchi Recipe: Easy, Healthy, and Delicious Meals

Gnocchi is a classic Italian dish beloved for its pillowy texture and comforting appeal. But traditional gnocchi made with potatoes can be carb-heavy and sometimes tricky to get just right.

Enter chickpea gnocchi — a delicious, protein-packed alternative that’s gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and surprisingly easy to make at home. Using chickpea flour as the base, this recipe offers a nutty flavor with a wonderfully soft bite that pairs perfectly with a variety of sauces and toppings.

Whether you’re looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire or simply want to try a new twist on an old favorite, this chickpea gnocchi recipe is sure to become a staple. It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and is versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a healthy dose of fiber and protein in a fun and creative way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chickpea gnocchi recipe is a game-changer for many reasons. First, it’s gluten-free and packed with plant-based protein, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions or anyone seeking a nutritious alternative to traditional gnocchi.

The chickpea flour creates a light, fluffy texture that holds up beautifully when boiled or pan-fried.

Additionally, this recipe is incredibly adaptable. You can toss your gnocchi with a simple tomato sauce, a creamy vegan pesto, or even a garlic-infused olive oil drizzle.

It’s also a great base to experiment with herbs and spices to suit your palate. If you’ve enjoyed other creative vegan dishes like Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or crave hearty meals like Black Bean Rice Burger Recipe Vegan Made Easy and Delicious, this gnocchi will fit right into your culinary collection.

Ingredients

• 1 cup chickpea flour (also known as gram flour or besan)
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas (drained and rinsed if canned)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or fresh minced rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water as needed (about 1/4 to 1/3 cup)
• Cornstarch or additional chickpea flour for dusting

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Food processor or blender
• Fork or gnocchi board (optional)
• Large pot for boiling
• Slotted spoon
• Non-stick skillet or frying pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Clean kitchen towel or parchment paper

Instructions

1. Prepare the chickpeas: If using canned chickpeas, rinse and drain thoroughly. Place chickpeas in a food processor or blender and pulse until smooth but still slightly textured. You want a thick paste, not completely liquid.
2. Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the chickpea paste, chickpea flour, olive oil, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Gradually add water, starting with 1/4 cup, and mix until a soft, pliable dough forms. The dough should be moist but not sticky. Add more flour if too wet or more water if too dry.
3. Shape the gnocchi: Lightly dust your work surface with cornstarch or chickpea flour. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope about 1/2 inch thick. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces. Use a fork or gnocchi board to gently press each piece to create ridges (optional, but helps sauce cling).
4. Cook the gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop gnocchi pieces into the boiling water in batches. When they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes), use a slotted spoon to remove and transfer to a plate.
5. Pan-fry for extra texture: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the boiled gnocchi and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy on the outside. This step is optional but adds a delightful contrast of textures.
6. Serve immediately: Toss the gnocchi with your favorite sauce or seasoning and garnish as desired.

Tips & Variations

“To prevent your gnocchi from sticking, always lightly dust them with flour or cornstarch before boiling.”

• Herb Variations: Swap rosemary for sage, thyme, or basil to change the flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the dough for a subtle heat.
• Cheesy Flavor: Incorporate vegan parmesan or more nutritional yeast for a richer taste.
• Vegan Sauce Pairings: Try a simple tomato basil sauce, creamy cashew Alfredo, or garlic olive oil drizzle.
• Storage: Uncooked gnocchi can be frozen on a parchment-lined tray, then transferred to a bag. Boil directly from frozen when ready to cook.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Chickpea gnocchi pairs wonderfully with a variety of sauces and sides. For a light meal, toss the gnocchi in a fresh tomato sauce with basil and garlic.

For something richer, try a vegan pesto made from basil, pine nuts, and nutritional yeast. You can also pan-fry the gnocchi and serve them crispy alongside sautéed greens or roasted vegetables for a hearty dinner.

If you’re looking for inspiration beyond this recipe, check out these delicious plant-based meals: Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious, and Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.

Conclusion

Making chickpea gnocchi at home is a rewarding and delicious way to enjoy a traditional favorite with a healthy twist. This recipe is not only simple and quick but also packs a punch in nutrition and flavor.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, gluten-free, or just curious about new recipes, chickpea gnocchi offers a satisfying and versatile meal option.

With endless possibilities for sauces and seasonings, this dish can be adapted to suit any occasion or craving. Plus, the added protein and fiber from chickpeas make it a wholesome alternative to the usual potato gnocchi.

So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this delightful recipe—you won’t be disappointed!

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