This crispy gnocchi salad with spring vegetables is a light yet comforting dish perfect for easy lunches or weeknight dinners.

Golden pan-fried gnocchi is paired with fresh asparagus, sugar snap peas, zucchini ribbons, tomatoes, creamy ricotta, and a bright lemon fennel dressing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy golden gnocchi texture
• Fresh seasonal vegetables
• Light but satisfying
• Perfect for spring and summer meals
• Easy vegetarian dinner idea

Ingredients

For the Salad

• Sugar snap peas
• Asparagus
• Shelf-stable gnocchi
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Cherry tomatoes
• Zucchini
• Smooth ricotta
• Fresh parsley leaves

For the Chive and Fennel Dressing

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Fennel seeds
• Lemon zest
• Lemon juice
• Fresh chives

How to Make Crispy Gnocchi Salad

Step 1: Cook the Vegetables

Cook sugar snap peas and asparagus briefly in boiling salted water until bright green and tender.

Transfer to a bowl of cold water to refresh, then drain.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Cook gnocchi in boiling water until they float to the surface.

Drain thoroughly.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

Heat olive oil in a small frying pan.

Add fennel seeds and cook until fragrant.

Remove from heat and stir in:

• Lemon zest
• Lemon juice
• Fresh chives

Season well and allow to cool slightly.

Step 4: Crisp the Gnocchi

Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.

Cook gnocchi until golden and crispy.

Add:

• Sugar snap peas
• Asparagus
• Tomatoes
• Zucchini ribbons

Toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve

Divide the salad among serving plates.

Top with:

• Dollops of ricotta
• Lemon fennel dressing
• Fresh parsley

Serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Crispy Gnocchi Salad

• Drain gnocchi well before frying
• Don’t overcrowd the pan for maximum crispiness
• Refresh vegetables in cold water to keep their colour
• Fresh lemon brightens the whole dish
• Serve warm for the best texture

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs perfectly with:

• Grilled chicken
• Garlic prawns
• Crusty bread
• Sparkling water with lemon
• A fresh green salad

Recipe Variations

Extra Protein

Add grilled salmon, chicken, or chickpeas.

More Greens

Add spinach, rocket, or baby kale.

Cheese Swap

Use goat cheese or feta instead of ricotta.

Storage Tips

• Best enjoyed fresh
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days
• Reheat gnocchi in a frying pan to restore crispiness

Final Thoughts

This crispy gnocchi salad with spring vegetables is a fresh and flavourful meal that combines comforting crispy gnocchi with bright seasonal ingredients. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners.