Air-Fry Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi: A Quick, Crispy Treat

Trader Joe's cauliflower gnocchi is a popular product that can be cooked in an air fryer for a crispy, golden brown texture. This recipe is a great healthier alternative to traditional potato gnocchi as it is lower in calories and carbohydrates. It is also gluten-free, egg-free, and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

To make Trader Joe's cauliflower gnocchi in an air fryer, first preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Then, spread the frozen gnocchi in a single layer in the air fryer basket and spray with avocado or olive oil. Air fry for 14-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Finally, serve with your choice of sauce, such as pesto, Alfredo, or marinara.

How to get the right texture

To get the right texture, it is important to cook the gnocchi until it is crispy on the outside and soft and pillowy in the centre. The air fryer is the best way to achieve this, as it prevents the gnocchi from becoming mushy and ensures even browning without burning the gnocchi.

To get the right texture, follow these steps:

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Place the frozen gnocchi into the air fryer basket in a single layer. This ensures even cooking and browning.
• Lightly spray the gnocchi with avocado oil, olive oil or cooking spray. This helps to crisp up the gnocchi.
• Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 14-20 minutes, depending on your air fryer model and desired level of crispiness.
• Flip the gnocchi halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on both sides.
• If the gnocchi is frozen together, break them apart after the first 5 minutes of cooking to allow for even cooking.
• Serve immediately. The gnocchi is best enjoyed fresh, as this helps maintain the crispy texture.

By following these steps, you will achieve the perfect texture for your Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi in the air fryer.

The best sauces to serve with it

Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sauces. Here are some of the best options:

Pesto Sauce

Pesto sauce is a great choice if you're looking for a fresh and vibrant flavor. The homemade pesto sauce adds a nice touch of flavor to the gnocchi.

Alfredo Sauce

For a rich and comforting option, Alfredo sauce is always a hit. It pairs well with the cauliflower gnocchi and can be tossed with the gnocchi or served as a dipping sauce.

Red Sauce

A classic Italian option is to go with a red sauce, such as marinara or any tomato-based sauce. This pairs well with the cauliflower gnocchi and gives it a traditional flavor.

Olive Oil and Garlic

For a light and flavorful option, you can simply toss the gnocchi with olive oil and garlic. This enhances the flavor of the gnocchi without overpowering it.

Brown Butter Sage Sauce

If you're looking for a nutty and aromatic flavor, brown butter sage sauce is a great choice. It adds a unique touch to the gnocchi and complements the cauliflower nicely.

Buffalo Sauce

For those who like a bit of a kick, Buffalo sauce is a great option. It adds a spicy and tangy flavor to the gnocchi, creating an interesting combination of flavors.

These are just a few of the many sauce options that go well with Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi cooked in an air fryer. Feel free to experiment with different sauces and find your favorite combinations!

How to cook it without an air fryer

How to cook Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi without an air fryer

The air fryer might be the best way to cook Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi, but there are other methods to achieve a similar result.

The gnocchi can be cooked in an oven, on a stovetop, or by pan-frying. The oven method is not recommended, as it takes too long.

To cook the gnocchi on a stovetop, heat a skillet with butter or olive oil. Cook the gnocchi in a single layer until golden brown and crispy.

For the pan-frying method, heat a skillet with 1-2 tablespoons of oil. Add the frozen gnocchi and cook for 7-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

The gnocchi can be cooked from frozen for both methods, and no thawing is required.

How to store and reheat leftovers

Storing and reheating leftovers of Trader Joe's cauliflower gnocchi is simple. It is best to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to two days.

To reheat, place the gnocchi back in the air fryer at 380°F (200°C) for 4-6 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the oven at 200-225°F (93-107°C) if you prefer.

It is not recommended to refreeze cooked cauliflower gnocchi as this will significantly affect the texture and taste.

The health benefits of cauliflower gnocchi

Cauliflower gnocchi is a healthier alternative to traditional potato gnocchi. It is made with cauliflower, cassava flour, potato starch, and olive oil, making it suitable for gluten-free, egg-free, and dairy-free diets.

Lower in Calories and Carbohydrates

One of the main benefits of cauliflower gnocchi is that it is lower in calories and carbohydrates than traditional gnocchi. This makes it a good option for those watching their calorie or carbohydrate intake.

High in Fibre

Cauliflower is a high-fibre vegetable, and using it as the primary ingredient in gnocchi increases the fibre content of the dish. Fibre is important for digestive health and can also help with weight management by making you feel fuller for longer.

Versatile

Cauliflower gnocchi is very versatile and can be paired with a variety of sauces, from classic red sauce to creamy Alfredo or a simple olive oil and garlic mix. It can also be served as a side dish or a main course, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Easy to Prepare

In addition to its health benefits, cauliflower gnocchi is also quick and easy to prepare. It can be cooked directly from frozen in an air fryer, oven, or stovetop, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Frequently asked questions