Gnocchi alla Sorrentina

Growing up in Naples I became accustomed to eating gnocchi almost weekly. It was one of my favorite foods. On Sundays, my dad would walk to the ‘Pastificio’ (Pasta shop) where all sorts of pasta was made daily and he would either pick up a bag of fresh ravioli or gnocchi. It was always a pleasant surprise when he’d bring home the gnocchi. Since moving to the U.S. it has been one of my favorite entertaining dishes, I have yet to find someone who does not like them. I have to say that the processed gnocchi commonly found in the U.S. are very similar to the fresh ones I’d have in Italy. Well, I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!

For 4 People

2 Packages Gnocchi
1 8oz. can of Tomato Sauce
1 6oz. can of Tomato Paste
3 Fresh Basil leaves (or 1 Tbls dry)
Olive Oil
1/4 Diced Onion
1 Cup Shredded Mozzarella

Put about 2 Tablespoons of Olive Oil in a medium saucepan along with the onion. Once the onion is of a golden color ad sauce and paste. Cook on low to medium heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. In the meantime cook the gnocchi according to package directions, gnocchi are ready once the majority of them are floating, do not overcook! Combine with sauce and basil in a bowl, add mozzarella. Mix well and serve.

Please note that gnocchi are very compacted and can be very filling, only place about a cup to two cups per person per plate.

Buon Appetito!

Neapolitan Meat Sauce

Meat sauce is the base for many dishes from pasta with sauce to lasagna. This sauce is very rich in consistency and very flavorful thanks to the beef and vegetables. Give it a try!


 For 6 people

Ingredients:
1 Can Tomato Sauce
1 Can Tomato Paste
3 Fresh Basil Leaves
1/2 LB Ground Beef
1 Carrot (finely diced)
1 Celery Stalk (finely diced)
1/2 cup Onion (diced)
2 Garlic cloves (chopped)
2 TBLS Olive Oil
1 TBLS Italian Seasoning
Dash of Salt

Place oil, garlic and onion in a large pot. Caramelize. Add celery and carrot, cook for about 3-5 minutes. Add beef, break up into smaller pieces while mixing with vegetables. Brown meat. Add sauce and paste, cook for about 30 minutes on low-med setting.

This recipe also works well in slow-cookers or cast iron stoves. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.

When using to top pasta, always add plenty of Parmesan or Romano cheese.