This beet gnocchi with feta recipe is a delicious and colorful twist on traditional potato gnocchi. The beets add a beautiful deep red color to the dish and provide a sweet, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the salty feta cheese. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion. Give it a try and enjoy the unique combination of flavors!
Tips & Tricks for Making Beet Gnocchi
Here are some tips and tricks for making beet gnocchi:
- Use roasted beets: Roasting beets brings out their sweetness and adds depth of flavor. Roasting also makes it easier to remove the skins.
- Use a ricer or food mill: When making gnocchi, it’s important to have a smooth and consistent texture. Using a ricer or food mill will ensure that the beets are finely pureed.
- Add flour gradually: Depending on the moisture content of your beets, you may need more or less flour. Add flour gradually until the dough comes together and is no longer sticky.
- Don’t overwork the dough: Overworking the dough can make it tough and chewy. Only knead the dough until it’s smooth and uniform.
- Shape the gnocchi properly: To shape the gnocchi, roll the dough into long ropes and cut them into small pieces. You can either leave them as is or use a fork to create ridges on them. The ridges help the sauce adhere to the gnocchi.
- Boil gently: To cook the gnocchi, bring a pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Drop the gnocchi into the water and cook until they float to the surface. Scoop them out with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a saucepan.
- Add your favorite sauce: Gnocchi pairs well with a variety of sauces. You can use a simple tomato sauce, a creamy cheese sauce, or a pesto sauce. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
- Freeze for later: If you have leftover gnocchi, freeze them on a baking sheet until they are firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. To cook, drop them directly into boiling water for 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface.
Beet Gnocchi with Feta
Ingredients
- 3 medium beets peeled and chopped
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions
Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Prepare the Beets
- Spread the chopped beets out in a single layer on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.3 medium beets
- Roast the beets in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until tender.
- Once the beets are roasted, transfer them to a food processor and puree until smooth.
Make Gnocchi
- In a mixing bowl, combine the beet puree, flour, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour.2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 egg, 1 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Roll the dough out into a long rope, about 1 inch in diameter. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked gnocchi to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese to the mixing bowl and gently toss the gnocchi until they are coated in the cheese.1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Serve
- Serve the beet gnocchi with feta immediately, topped with a drizzle of olive oil and additional crumbled feta cheese if desired.1/4 cup olive oil
FAQ on Baking with Beets
Can I use raw beets in baking?
While raw beets can be used in baking, they should be peeled and shredded or grated before using in a recipe. Keep in mind that raw beets may have a stronger flavor than cooked beets, so it’s best to taste the batter before baking.
How do I cook beets for baking?
To cook beets, first wash them thoroughly and remove the stems and leaves. You can either roast them in the oven at 400°F for about 45-60 minutes or boil them on the stove for about 30-40 minutes until they are tender. Once cooked, let them cool, peel the skin, and grate or puree them for use in your recipe.
What types of baked goods can I make with beets?
Beets can be used in a variety of baked goods such as cakes, muffins, and brownies. They add natural sweetness and moisture to baked goods, and also give a vibrant color.
How do I adjust the recipe when using beets?
When using beets in a recipe, you may need to adjust the amount of liquid or sweetener used since the beets themselves will add moisture and sweetness. Be sure to also adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed since beets can affect the baking time.
How do I store baked goods with beets?
Baked goods with beets should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. When thawing, be sure to do so slowly in the refrigerator to prevent any condensation from forming on the surface of the baked goods.
