Quick Italian delight: 15‑minute creamy Parmesan gnocchi

Are you in the mood for something special but don't want to spend more than 15 minutes in the kitchen? Creamy gnocchi with Parmesan and lemon is the perfect choice! This dish combines simplicity with an elegant, restaurant-level taste. A light hint of lemon cuts through the creamy sauce made with cream and Parmesan, and the ready-made gnocchi ensures quick preparation. This recipe will be loved by Italian cuisine enthusiasts and those looking for fast and tasty dinner ideas after work.

Below you'll find the exact method for preparing this aromatic dish. Remember that success lies in simplicity and the quality of ingredients. The Parmesan should be freshly grated, and the lemon should be well-washed, preferably organic, if you plan to use its peel.

Ingredients:            

• A package of ready gnocchi (fresh or thawed),
• 3 tablespoons of butter,
• 1/3 cup of heavy cream,
• 3.5 ounces of freshly grated Parmesan,
• 2 lemons,
• Salt and pepper to taste,
• Chopped parsley.

Instructions:          

1. Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and wait until it melts completely and begins to sizzle gently. Be careful not to burn it.
2. Add the ready gnocchi to the melted butter. Fry them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become golden and slightly crispy outside. The frying gives them a better texture and deeper flavor.
3. Reduce the heat to low. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet. Add freshly grated zest from the two lemons (use a fine grater and only grate the yellow, aromatic part of the peel, avoiding the white, bitter pith). Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember to salt lightly, as Parmesan is already salty.
4. Add the freshly grated Parmesan to the skillet. Stir all the ingredients vigorously until the Parmesan melts completely and combines with the butter and cream, creating a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the gnocchi. The sauce should thicken within a minute.
5. Immediately transfer the ready gnocchi with Parmesan and lemon to plates. Generously sprinkle with freshly chopped green parsley, which adds freshness and visual appeal.
6. Serve hot and enjoy the unique taste of this exquisite yet straightforward dish. This recipe for gnocchi with Parmesan and lemon is ideal for a quick and satisfying meal.

You can modify this dish depending on your mood or the contents of your fridge. Finely chopped spinach leaves, sautéed mushrooms in butter, or grilled chicken go well with the sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, sautéed cherry tomatoes or slices of zucchini also work perfectly.

The dish is light and refreshing thanks to the lemony note, while the creamy Parmesan sauce fills it. This combination of flavors perfectly fits current culinary trends: quick, healthy, and inventive.