Pantry Luxe

This is another route to an easy-but-gourmet meal from pantry-friendly ingredients. Ideal here are fresh herbs, such as sage, thyme, or rosemary, to simmer in the butter. Additionally, if you have delicate herbs such as basil or parsley, add them at serving time. Optionally add some protein by stirring in pre-cooked sausage, ham, chicken, or shrimp.

Gnocchi is promoted as even more convenient than pasta – cooks in 2 minutes! (when boiled in water per package directions.) But, flavor and texture are much superior when sautéed as I’ve described below. Worth the extra time, and it can happen at the same time as the sauce.

• 1 lb gnocchi (Trader Joe’s has a great value)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 4 Tbsp butter
• 3-4 cloves garlic, sliced
• Small handful fresh sage; or 1-2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
• 14.5 oz can diced or crushed tomatoes
• Optional: 4-6 oz pre-cooked meat or seafood
• Optional: fresh herbs such as basil or parsley, coarsely chopped
• ½ cup grated Parmesan or other cheese

Heat a heavy skillet over low heat. Add oil (increase heat to medium) and when it’s shimmering, add gnocchi in a single layer and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown on most surfaces, about 10-15 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, melt butter. When it’s done foaming, stir in garlic and sage. Simmer gently until the milk solids and garlic begin to brown. As soon as the butter is browned, pour in the tomatoes. Return to a simmer and let the sauce reduce for a few minutes, until it’s thickened slightly. Stir in your optional items, add salt and pepper to taste, and cover to keep warm.

When the gnocchi are done, pour the sauce over, stir to coat, sprinkle with cheese and optional fresh herbs. Serve.