Crispy Gnocchi with Whipped Feta, Cranberries & Chili Honey
Crispy Gnocchi with Whipped Feta, Cranberries, and Chili Honey is a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Pillowy potato gnocchi is pan-seared until golden and crispy, then paired with creamy, tangy whipped feta, sweet-tart cranberries, and a touch of spicy-sweet chili honey. This dish works beautifully as an appetizer, a side, or even a vegetarian main course. It’s elegant enough for entertaining but simple enough for a weeknight treat. The combination of crunchy, creamy, sweet, and spicy notes makes every bite exciting, while the cranberries add a festive pop of color.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
Gnocchi
Potato gnocchi: 1 pound (fresh or store-bought)
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Salt: to taste
Black pepper: to taste
Whipped Feta
Feta cheese: 4 ounces, crumbled
Greek yogurt: 1/4 cup
Olive oil: 1 teaspoon
Lemon juice: 1 teaspoon
Fresh black pepper: to taste
Toppings & Garnish
Dried cranberries: 1/3 cup
Honey: 2 tablespoons
Red chili flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
Fresh parsley or microgreens: 2 tablespoons, chopped
Instructions
Whip the feta: In a food processor or blender, combine feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Cook the gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, 2–3 minutes. Drain and pat dry.
Pan-sear gnocchi: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add drained gnocchi in a single layer. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Season with salt and pepper.
Prepare chili honey: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, gently warm honey and stir in red chili flakes. Adjust spice level to taste.
Assemble the dish: Spread a layer of whipped feta on a serving plate. Top with crispy gnocchi.
Add cranberries: Sprinkle dried cranberries evenly over the gnocchi.
Drizzle chili honey: Lightly drizzle warm chili honey over the top.
Garnish: Finish with chopped parsley or microgreens for color and freshness.
Serve immediately: Enjoy warm as a snack, appetizer, or main course.
Optional plating: Serve in individual bowls or on a platter for sharing.
Tips
Pat gnocchi dry before pan-searing to ensure maximum crispiness.
Use a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet to prevent sticking.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook gnocchi in batches if necessary.
Adjust chili flakes according to desired heat level.
Whipped feta can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for 1–2 days.
For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk or cream to the feta while whipping.
Dried cranberries can be lightly soaked in warm water for a plumper texture.
Stir gnocchi gently while searing to maintain crisp surfaces.
Drizzle chili honey just before serving to preserve its texture.
Serve immediately for best contrast between crispy gnocchi and creamy feta.
Variations
Sweet & Savory: Add caramelized onions to the gnocchi.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted walnuts or pine nuts on top.
Vegetable Addition: Include roasted cherry tomatoes or zucchini.
Vegan Version: Use vegan feta and maple syrup instead of honey.
Spicy Boost: Add more red chili flakes or a touch of sriracha.
Citrus Twist: Add orange zest to whipped feta for a bright flavor.
Herb Variation: Try fresh thyme or basil instead of parsley.
Cheese Variation: Use ricotta instead of feta for a milder flavor.
Holiday Version: Replace cranberries with pomegranate seeds for festive color.
Pan Sauce: Deglaze the skillet with a little white wine or vegetable stock for a light sauce.
Q & A
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, fresh or frozen gnocchi work well.
Can I bake gnocchi instead of pan-searing?
Yes, toss with olive oil and bake at 425°F for 15 minutes.
Can this be made vegan?
Yes, use vegan feta and swap honey with maple syrup.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat in a skillet for crispiness.
Can I use fresh cranberries?
Yes, but cook them slightly with sugar to soften before using.
Is chili honey optional?
Yes, you can drizzle plain honey or leave it off.
Can I prepare whipped feta in advance?
Absolutely, store in the fridge until ready to serve.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended; crispy texture is lost.
What pairs well with this dish?
A simple green salad or roasted vegetables complement it nicely.
Can I make it less sweet?
Reduce honey and cranberries for a more savory profile.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 380
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 580mg
Conclusion
Crispy Gnocchi with Whipped Feta, Cranberries, and Chili Honey is a stunning balance of textures and flavors. Golden gnocchi contrasts with creamy feta, sweet-tart cranberries, and a subtle kick of chili honey, creating a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Quick to prepare, visually striking, and packed with flavor, it’s perfect as an appetizer, a vegetarian main course, or a festive side dish. With easy variations and the option to add roasted vegetables or nuts, this dish is versatile enough for everyday meals or special occasions.