Air-Fryer Cauliflower Gnocchi: A Healthy, Quick Treat

Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. They're a safer, cleaner, and healthier alternative to traditional frying methods, and can cook a wide range of foods. One food that can be cooked in an air fryer is cauliflower gnocchi, which has become a popular item at Trader Joe's and other grocery stores. This article will discuss how to cook cauliflower gnocchi in an air fryer, and the benefits of doing so.

Air fryer settings and timings

Air frying cauliflower gnocchi is a quick and easy way to cook this dish, with most recipes taking under 20 minutes. The air fryer is a popular method for cooking cauliflower gnocchi as it creates a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft and pillowy interior.

Most recipes recommend preheating the air fryer to 400°F (one source suggests 375°F). However, it is important to note that air fryer temperatures can vary, so it is a good idea to check the gnocchi regularly during cooking to ensure it doesn't burn.

For the best results, spread the gnocchi in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray, ensuring there is space between each piece. If your air fryer is the basket type, you may need to cook the gnocchi in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Cooking times vary from 12 to 20 minutes, depending on the desired level of crispiness. It is recommended to shake the basket or flip the gnocchi halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

Some recipes suggest spraying the gnocchi with cooking oil or olive oil before and during cooking to promote crispiness. However, others recommend a generous amount of avocado oil to be mixed with the gnocchi before placing it in the air fryer.

It is important not to follow the cooking instructions on the packet, as these are likely to result in soggy gnocchi.

How to serve cauliflower gnocchi

Yes, you can cook cauliflower gnocchi in an air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

How to Cook Cauliflower Gnocchi in an Air Fryer:

• Place a bag of frozen cauliflower gnocchi on a plate, leaving some space between each piece. Microwave for 1 minute, flipping halfway to ensure even thawing.
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
• Spread the gnocchi evenly in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not piled on top of each other.
• Lightly spray the gnocchi with cooking oil.
• Air fry for 13-15 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness.

Cauliflower gnocchi is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As an appetizer: Serve the crispy gnocchi with a dipping sauce such as marinara, alfredo, vodka, pesto aioli, or buffalo sauce.
• As a main dish: Toss the air-fried gnocchi with extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, and sea salt. Top with grated cheese and fresh basil for a simple yet delicious meal.
• With a sauce: Toss the gnocchi with a sauce of your choice. Some options include a red pasta sauce, vegan pesto sauce, lemon tahini sauce, or a vegan cheese sauce.
• With a protein: Toss the gnocchi with a sauce and serve with a protein on top, such as chicken sausage.

Tips for Cooking Cauliflower Gnocchi:

• It is recommended to cook cauliflower gnocchi from frozen. Do not thaw before cooking.
• For best results, cook the gnocchi in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. You may need to cook in batches.
• Flip or shake the gnocchi halfway through the cooking process for even browning.
• The cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer, so keep an eye on the gnocchi to ensure they don't burn or dry out.

Enjoy your cauliflower gnocchi!

How to store and reheat gnocchi

Gnocchi is a delicious dish, but what happens when you have leftovers? Here are some tips on how to store and reheat your gnocchi to ensure it stays fresh and tasty.

Storing Gnocchi

When it comes to storing gnocchi, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure the gnocchi is completely cool before storing it in the refrigerator. Place the gnocchi in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to prevent it from drying out and absorbing odours from other foods. It's best to store it in the coldest part of your fridge, and if you have a large quantity, consider dividing it into smaller portions. This way, you can avoid repeatedly reheating the entire batch, which can affect the quality.

Reheating Gnocchi

There are several effective methods to reheat your gnocchi while maintaining its texture and flavour:

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Place the gnocchi in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown.
• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Place the gnocchi in a microwave-safe dish with a small amount of water. Cover and microwave on high for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the gnocchi in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy and heated through.
• Steaming: Fill a pot with an inch of water and bring it to a simmer. Place a steamer basket above the water, making sure the gnocchi doesn't touch the water. Steam the gnocchi for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Remember, the key to reheating gnocchi is to avoid overcooking it, which can make it mushy. Always ensure that reheated gnocchi is consumed within 3-5 days of the initial cooking.

Cauliflower gnocchi ingredients

Cauliflower gnocchi is a gluten-free, veggie-filled alternative to traditional potato gnocchi. The ingredients are simple, with most recipes calling for just cauliflower, flour, and salt. Here's a more detailed breakdown of what you'll need:

Cauliflower

The star ingredient! You'll need a medium-sized head of cauliflower, or about 12 heaping cups of cauliflower florets. Frozen cauliflower works great and can save you some prep time.

Flour

The type of flour you use will depend on your dietary preferences and what's available to you. Here are some options:

• Cassava flour: This gluten-free, grain-free flour is made from the yuca (cassava) root. It's a 1:1 substitute for wheat flour and is ideal for those following a paleo or gluten-free diet. However, it can be harder to find and more expensive.
• Potato starch: Potato starch is a great binding agent and helps the gnocchi hold its shape. It's often used in combination with other flours like cassava or arrowroot.
• White whole wheat flour: This type of flour adds a nutritional boost to your gnocchi, providing more fibre and protein than regular wheat flour.
• Gluten-free flour: If you need your gnocchi to be gluten-free, you can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The gnocchi may be a little less chewy, but it will still taste delicious!

Salt

A little salt enhances the flavour of the gnocchi and brings out the nuttiness of the cauliflower. Sea salt or kosher salt are great options.

Optional Ingredients

While the above ingredients are the basics, you can also add a few extras to enhance your gnocchi:

• Olive oil: A little olive oil keeps the gnocchi tender and adds a nice savoury note. It also helps to prevent the gnocchi from sticking to the pan during cooking.
• Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese is a classic topping for gnocchi and adds a salty, umami flavour.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten up the dish and add a pop of colour.

Equipment

In addition to your ingredients, there are a few pieces of equipment that will come in handy:

• Food processor: This is the easiest way to puree the cauliflower and mix in the flour and salt.
• Cheesecloth or dish towel: You'll need something to help you squeeze out the excess moisture from the cooked cauliflower.
• Gnocchi board or fork: If you want to give your gnocchi that classic ribbed pattern, you can use a gnocchi board or the back of a fork to create the design.

Is cauliflower gnocchi healthy?

Yes, cauliflower gnocchi can be a healthier choice than traditional gnocchi.

Traditional gnocchi is made with potatoes, flour, and eggs. Trader Joe's cauliflower gnocchi, on the other hand, is made primarily with cauliflower (about 75%) and other ingredients like cassava flour, potato starch, olive oil, and sea salt. This makes it a gluten-free and vegan option.

Cauliflower is a less starchy vegetable than potatoes, so cauliflower gnocchi has about half the carbs and twice the fiber of traditional potato gnocchi. It also has lower calories. For example, one cup of Trader Joe's cauliflower gnocchi has 140 calories, while one cup of standard frozen potato gnocchi has 360 calories.

However, cauliflower gnocchi may be higher in fat and sodium compared to potato gnocchi. Additionally, it may be too high in carbs for those on a keto diet.

Cauliflower gnocchi is also a versatile dish and can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or as a substitute for potato dishes. It pairs well with various sauces like vegan cheese sauce, red sauce, pesto, marinara, or alfredo sauce.

When cooking, it is recommended to avoid boiling the cauliflower gnocchi like regular gnocchi, as this can make it soggy. Instead, cooking methods like air frying, pan-frying, or baking in the oven are preferred to achieve a crispy texture.

Frequently asked questions