When we were in Spain last November, we stopped by an Italian (very rare) restaurant near our AirBnB flat. Matt ordered Gnocchi De La Mama, gnocchi in tomato sauce. He was a bit skeptical, because he generally likes gnocchi with cream sauces…think caramelized onion and blue cheese sauce. We both fell in love with this simple dish of potato dumplings with tomato sauce and lots of Parmesan.

On a side note, if you ever get the chance to go to Spain, DO IT. We have visited four times and can’t wait for our next overseas travel. We’d be happy to share travel tips to anyone headed that direction. Jump on the plane. Get your travel on.

Ok, so once home from Spain, we tried to recreate Gnocchi De La Mama. If you want to take the time to make your own gnocchi, absolutely go for it! We’ve made it before and it is wonderful. However, you can get some pretty decent pre-made gnocchi in the pasta isle. If they have the mini gnocchi, grab those. We’ve liked them a little better than the traditional size, but either will work great!

This dish is super simple, comes together really fast (assuming you’ve made the roasted tomato sauce ahead of time), and will put smiles on everyone in your house, making this an excellent weeknight meal.

Gnocchi De La Mama
* serves 2-3

Ingredients:

• 1 package gnocchi
• Olive oil or butter
• Roasted Tomato Sauce – Follow this recipe for roasted tomatoes, then put through a food mill. Make ahead and refrigerate, freeze, or can.
• At least 1 cup freshly shredded Parmesan
• Pinch hot pepper flakes
• Basil or parsley to finish the pasta

Directions:

1. Cook gnocchi according to package, drain.
2. Heat a tablespoon oil or butter in a saute pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add gnocchi and cook until just starting to brown.
3. Stir in 2 cups roasted tomato sauce and cook, stirring often so sauce doesn’t burn. Cook for a couple minutes. Add hot pepper flakes.
4. Add Parmesan and stir until just melted. Divide between bowls and top with chopped basil or parsley.