Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce Recipe

Name: Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 500 g fresh gnocchi; 150 g diced chorizo; 1 small onion, finely diced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 200 ml full-fat coconut milk; 1.5 tbsp harissa paste; 60 g baby spinach

Published: July 6, 2025

by kaeli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy chorizo and creamy harissa creates a unique taste that delights the palate.
Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or as part of a larger spread; it’s suitable for various occasions.
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with veggies like spinach and bell peppers, this recipe offers nutrition alongside great taste.
Easy Cleanup: Cook everything in one pan, making cleanup a breeze after enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious gnocchi dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large frying pan (skillet)
Slotted spoon
Large pot for boiling water
Cutting board
Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

Large frying pan (skillet): Ideal for sautéing ingredients evenly while allowing space for mixing flavors.
Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked gnocchi without excess water, ensuring your dish remains rich and creamy.

Ingredients

Turn store-bought gnocchi into something special with crispy chorizo, onion, and peppers in a creamy-yet-spicy harissa and coconut milk sauce.

For the Sauce

1 tsp sunflower oil
150 g (5.3 oz) diced chorizo (use your favourite variety)
1 small onion (peeled and finely diced)
1 red bell pepper (deseeded and sliced)
2 cloves garlic (peeled and minced)
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 ½ tbsp harissa paste
1 tbsp tomato puree (paste for US)
200 ml (7 fl oz) full-fat coconut milk
150 g (5.3 oz) cherry (grape) tomatoes (sliced in half)

For the Gnocchi

500 g (17.6 oz) fresh gnocchi
60 g (2 packed cups) baby spinach

To Finish

Chilli flakes
Black pepper
Freshly chopped parsley

How to Make Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Oil

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

Step 2: Cook the Chorizo

Add the chorizo and cook, stirring often, for 3-4 minutes until it starts to release its oils.

Step 3: Set Aside the Chorizo

Use a slotted spoon to remove the chorizo from the pan. Place it in a bowl and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Lower the heat to medium. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook for about 5 minutes until soft.

Step 5: Boil Water for Gnocchi

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to boil for the gnocchi.

Step 6: Add Sauces to Vegetables

Stir in harissa paste and tomato puree with the sautéed vegetables until well combined.

Step 7: Incorporate Coconut Milk

Pour in coconut milk and add cherry tomatoes. Stir well and bring to a simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 8: Cook Gnocchi

Once boiling, add gnocchi to the pot of water. Cook for 2-4 minutes until they float to the top.

Step 9: Combine Gnocchi with Sauce

Using a slotted spoon, transfer cooked gnocchi directly into the frying pan with sauce.

Step 10: Add Spinach & Chorizo

Add back previously cooked chorizo and fresh spinach into the skillet. Stir everything together.

Step 11: Final Cooking

Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until spinach wilts nicely into the sauce.

Step 12: Serve

Serve topped with chilli flakes, black pepper, and freshly chopped parsley for an added kick!

Enjoy your flavorful adventure with this Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce Recipe, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce Recipe

Serving gnocchi with chorizo and creamy harissa sauce can elevate your dinner experience. This dish is not only flavorful but also visually appealing. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Chili Flakes: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick of heat.

Pair with Bread

Crusty Bread: Serve alongside slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Garlic Bread: Garlic bread complements the flavors beautifully, adding a savory touch.

Accompany with Salad

Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with mixed greens balances the richness of the sauce.
Tomato and Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad adds a crisp texture that contrasts well with the creamy gnocchi.

Wine Pairing

Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay pairs nicely, enhancing the dish’s flavors.
Red Blends: Opt for a fruity red blend if you prefer red wine; it complements the chorizo well.

How to Perfect Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce Recipe

To achieve the best results with your gnocchi dish, consider these helpful tips.

Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality chorizo and fresh vegetables for superior flavor.
Cook Gnocchi Wisely: Ensure you don’t overcook the gnocchi; they should float when done.
Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the harissa paste amount based on your spice tolerance for personalized heat.
Stir Gently: When mixing in the spinach and gnocchi, stir gently to avoid breaking them apart.
Let Flavors Develop: Allow the sauce to simmer longer for richer flavors, if time permits.
Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve your dish right after cooking while it’s still warm.

Best Side Dishes for Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce Recipe

Enhance your meal by pairing it with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Roasted broccoli adds a crispy texture and garlic flavor that pairs well.
Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a nice contrast to the creamy sauce.
Olive Tapenade Crostini: These savory bites offer bold flavors that complement the chorizo nicely.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus brings a fresh crunch that balances out the richness of the main dish.
Herbed Quinoa: A light quinoa salad with herbs adds fiber and keeps things healthy without overshadowing the main dish.
Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers can be filled with rice or beans for an added layer of flavor and nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

Using the wrong type of chorizo: Not all chorizo is the same. Choose a quality variety that suits your taste; Spanish chorizo works great for this recipe.
Overcooking the gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly. Keep an eye on them, and remove them from boiling water as soon as they float to avoid mushiness.
Skipping the spinach: This ingredient adds both color and nutrition. Don’t skip it; add it at the end so it wilts perfectly into the sauce.
Neglecting seasoning: The dish can become bland if not seasoned properly. Taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Not letting the sauce simmer: Allowing your sauce to simmer enhances flavors. Skipping this step can lead to a less rich taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce Recipe

Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
To avoid freezer burn, ensure there’s minimal air in the container.

Reheating Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Use a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help rehydrate while stirring until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce Recipe?

Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce is a flavorful dish combining tender gnocchi, spicy chorizo, and a creamy harissa sauce that brings warmth and depth.

Can I use another type of pasta instead of gnocchi?

Yes, you can substitute gnocchi with other pasta types like penne or fusilli, but cooking times may vary.

How spicy is the harissa sauce?

The spice level depends on the harissa paste brand you choose. Start with a small amount; you can always add more if you prefer it spicier.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chorizo with grilled vegetables or plant-based sausage for a delicious vegetarian version of Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce Recipe is not only delightful but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends!

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