Fluffy Ricotta Gnocchi with Roasted Apricots and Spicy Balsamic Glaze
Light and airy ricotta gnocchi served with sweet roasted apricots and a bold spicy balsamic glaze. A creative fusion dish that balances creamy, fruity, and tangy-spicy elements for a sophisticated meal or appetizer.
- Author: Mariem
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiled and Sautéed
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese (drained if watery)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
- 6 fresh apricots, halved and pitted
- 1 tsp olive oil (for roasting)
- For the Spicy Balsamic Glaze:
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place halved apricots on a lined baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tsp olive oil, and roast for 15–20 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Meanwhile, make the balsamic glaze: in a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and red pepper flakes. Simmer over medium-low heat for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside to cool.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Stir in flour gradually until a soft dough forms—do not overmix.
- Transfer dough to a floured surface. Divide into 4 portions and roll each into a rope about 3/4-inch thick. Cut into 1-inch pieces and optionally roll over a fork for ridges.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Cook gnocchi in batches until they float to the surface (about 2–3 minutes). Remove with a slotted spoon and drain.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté boiled gnocchi for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden and crisp on the outside.
- To serve, arrange roasted apricots with the gnocchi, drizzle generously with spicy balsamic glaze, and garnish with fresh herbs (optional).
Notes
- Use firm ricotta and drain any excess moisture for best texture.
- Apricots can be substituted with peaches or plums in season.
- Make glaze ahead of time—it keeps well refrigerated for up to a week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: ricotta gnocchi, roasted apricots, spicy balsamic glaze, vegetarian fusion, sweet savory pasta