Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Gnocchi with Slow-Sauteed Garlic, Broccoli, and Capers

Easy-peasy but flavorful meal. I used Trader Joe's whole wheat gnocchi, which are somehow really delicious, and fresh broccoli from the farmer's market. To make this a completely pantry-based meal, however, you could also use frozen broccoli or other veggies (I bet string beans would be great).

1 package store-bought gnocchi (of course, you could make your own if you're feeling adventurous!)
1 bunch broccoli, cut into small florets
4 large cloves garlic, sliced thinly
olive oil
capers (about 2 tablespoons)
red pepper flakes
salt and pepper to taste

Cook the gnocchi according to package directions, making sure not to overcook them. Drain and set aside.

Drizzle some olive oil into a wide saute pan. Add the garlic, then turn on the heat VERY low. Watch the oil and garlic carefully; you want it to sizzle only the tiniest bit. Saute it this way for about 5-10 minutes; if it shows any signs of browning during the process, quickly take it off the heat and let it cool for a few second before putting it back on. Cooking the garlic like this on very low heat gives it a sweet flavor, almost like roasting, but in much less time. When it starts to smell fragrant, toss in the capers, red pepper flakes, and broccoli. Saute for about 1-2 minutes so the broccoli can cook, then add the gnocchi for another minute or two. Add extra olive oil if needed, and salt and pepper to taste.

2 comments:

Laurel said...

mmmm, i'm definitely going to make this with green beans from the garden or maybe broccoli rabe? i'll have to wait until it cools off a little though...it's too hot to turn on the stove right now!

Lisa said...

mmm, it would be so good with broccoli rabe! I was eating leftovers today and was thinking about ways to spice it up even more . . . maybe lemon, white wine, parmesan? lemme know your take on it whenever it happens :)