High Protein Gnocchi Recipe for Quick Healthy Meals

Gnocchi is a beloved Italian dish known for its pillowy texture and comforting flavor. But what if you could enjoy this classic treat with a nutritious, high-protein twist?

Whether you’re an athlete looking to refuel or simply someone wanting to add more protein to your meals, this high protein gnocchi recipe is perfect for you. Packed with wholesome ingredients like chickpea flour and ricotta cheese, it gives you the delicious satisfaction of traditional gnocchi while boosting your protein intake.

Incorporating protein-rich ingredients not only enhances the nutritional profile but also adds a delightful richness to the dough, making your gnocchi more substantial and filling. This recipe is straightforward and approachable for home cooks of all skill levels.

Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sauces, making it a versatile addition to your weeknight dinner repertoire. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this hearty, protein-packed gnocchi that’s both tasty and nourishing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This high protein gnocchi recipe takes the best of traditional Italian comfort food and gives it a nutritious upgrade. By using chickpea flour and ricotta cheese, you’re adding a significant amount of protein without sacrificing the soft, fluffy texture that gnocchi is famous for.

It’s perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking to increase their plant-based protein consumption. The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you choose the right flour, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Additionally, it cooks quickly and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices for a personalized flavor.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a cozy dinner, this dish offers a satisfying and balanced meal that keeps you energized. And if you want to explore other easy and delicious vegetarian meals, check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup ricotta cheese (drained)
• 1 cup cooked mashed potatoes (skinless)
• 3/4 cup chickpea flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp fresh chopped basil (optional)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Fork or potato masher
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Rolling board or clean countertop
• Knife or bench scraper
• Large pot for boiling
• Slotted spoon
• Colander

Instructions

1. Prepare the potatoes: Boil peeled potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash thoroughly until smooth. Let cool slightly.
2. Mix ricotta and potatoes: In a large bowl, combine the drained ricotta cheese and mashed potatoes. Mix gently with a fork or wooden spoon until smooth and well incorporated.
3. Add egg and seasonings: Beat the egg lightly and add it to the mixture along with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
4. Incorporate chickpea flour: Gradually add chickpea flour, stirring to form a soft dough. You may need a little more or less flour depending on moisture—aim for a dough that’s slightly sticky but holds together.
5. Shape the dough: Dust your work surface with chickpea flour. Transfer the dough and gently knead it just until smooth, about 1-2 minutes. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions.
6. Roll and cut gnocchi: Roll each portion into a long rope about 1/2 inch thick. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces. Optionally, roll each piece over the back of a fork to create ridges.
7. Cook the gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop gnocchi in batches into the water. They are done when they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain.
8. Serve immediately: Toss the cooked gnocchi with your favorite sauce or a drizzle of olive oil, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Tips & Variations

For lighter gnocchi, be careful not to add too much chickpea flour as it can make the dough dense.

If you want to make this recipe vegan, substitute ricotta with a high-protein tofu ricotta alternative and use a flax egg instead of the chicken egg.

• Protein Boost: Add a scoop of unflavored protein powder to the dough for an extra protein kick. Adjust flour accordingly to maintain dough texture.
• Herb Variations: Try rosemary, thyme, or oregano in place of basil for a different flavor profile.
• Sauces: This gnocchi pairs beautifully with pesto, marinara, or a creamy mushroom sauce.
• Storage: Fresh gnocchi can be frozen in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to airtight bags and cook from frozen.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This high protein gnocchi is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a fresh and light option, toss it in a simple tomato basil sauce and garnish with fresh Parmesan and cracked black pepper.

For a richer meal, prepare a creamy mushroom sauce or a garlic butter sage sauce to coat the gnocchi. Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for an extra nutrient boost.

If you love plant-based meals, you might also enjoy our Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious or try our Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping for quick, protein-packed meals on the go.

Conclusion

This high protein gnocchi recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting Italian classic while fueling your body with quality protein. By incorporating chickpea flour and ricotta cheese, you not only boost the protein content but also create a deliciously tender dough that melts in your mouth.

The recipe is simple, adaptable, and perfect for anyone looking to enhance their meals with nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this gnocchi offers a satisfying and balanced meal option.

Don’t forget to experiment with different sauces and herbs to make this dish uniquely yours. For more protein-packed vegetarian and vegan recipes, explore our collection of [Best Vegan Pepper Jack Cheese Slice Recipe for Melty Flavor](https://gluttonlv.com/recipes/vegan/best-vegan-pepper-jack-cheese-slice-recipe/) and other healthy ideas on the blog.

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