Grilled Gnocchi Salad

Published: July 5, 2025

Grilled gnocchi salad with fresh vegetables and herbs

Grilled Gnocchi Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together the delightful textures of grilled vegetables and the comforting chew of gnocchi. Imagine biting into tender, lightly charred zucchini, sweet corn, and juicy bell peppers all tossed together with creamy goat cheese — an explosion of flavor and freshness in every forkful.

This recipe is perfect for casual summer gatherings, family dinners, or a delightful midweek meal. It’s easy to prepare and will fill your kitchen with enticing aromas that evoke fond memories of outdoor barbecues and lazy afternoons.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Grilled Gnocchi Salad is not just any side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or those needing a speedy meal option. You’ll love how the combination of tender gnocchi and fresh grilled vegetables creates a dish that’s both filling and refreshing. It’s versatile enough to serve as a main course on warm evenings while being crowd-pleasing enough for any potluck or barbecue. Plus, it balances healthy elements with indulgent, creamy goat cheese, making it a nutritious choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Ingredients

Kosher salt
16 oz. gnocchi: Soft, pillowy dumplings that offer a unique bite.
10 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided: Rich and aromatic, it adds depth to every ingredient.
1 large zucchini, cut into 1/2″ rounds: Juicy and crunchy, perfect for grilling.
1 large red onion, cut into 1/2″ pieces: Sweet and tangy, adding a delightful depth of flavor.
1 bell pepper (preferably yellow), seeds and ribs removed, cut into 1″ pieces: Sweet and colorful, it brightens the dish.
2 ears of corn, shucked: Sweet kernels that add a pop of freshness.
2 scallions, thinly sliced: Aromatic and zesty, bringing a burst of flavor.
3 Tbsp. finely grated Parmesan: Nutty and savory, enhancing the dish’s overall taste.
3 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice: Zesty and bright, it balances the richness of the cheese.
2 oz. crumbled goat cheese: Creamy and tangy, the perfect finishing touch.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Begin by bringing a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi in the boiling water for about 2 minutes or until they start to float, indicating that they are done. Drain the gnocchi, then transfer them to a medium bowl and toss them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to coat. Set them aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare your grill for medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high for about 5 minutes. In a large mixing bowl, toss the zucchini, onion, bell pepper, remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil, and 2 teaspoons of salt until they are evenly coated.

Step 3: Working in batches, place the vegetable mixture and corn on the grill, ensuring they are spread out to avoid steaming. If you’re concerned about losing pieces through the grates, consider using skewers, a grill basket, or covering the grates with foil. Grill the vegetables until they have beautiful char marks, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, transfer them to a large plate and carefully remove the kernels from the corn cobs.

Step 4: It’s time to grill the gnocchi! Place the gnocchi directly on the grill, ensuring they won’t stick. Grill until they have attractive char marks on at least one side, around 2 to 3 minutes. You can use skewers or foil if you prefer not to lose any.

Step 5: In a large bowl, whisk together the sliced scallions, grated Parmesan, fresh lemon juice, and the remaining 5 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with additional salt, if needed. Combine the grilled vegetables and gnocchi with the dressing and toss gently until everything is well-coated. Finish off by topping the salad with the crumbled goat cheese for a creamy and tangy burst.

Tips & Tricks

Ensure your grill is preheated; this helps to achieve beautiful grill marks while preventing the gnocchi from sticking.
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences. Asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms can also work beautifully in this recipe.
If you want a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the dressing for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Grilled Gnocchi Salad is wonderfully versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. It can be the star of a summer picnic or an elegant side at a dinner party. Pair it with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the salad’s flavors. You can also make it a delightful main dish by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. A side of crusty bread would round out the meal nicely, giving you a complete dining experience.

Nutritional Information

This Grilled Gnocchi Salad is not only delicious but nutritious as well. A serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on portion size and additional ingredients. The salad provides healthy fats from olive oil and goat cheese, fiber from the vegetables, and a good balance of carbohydrates from the gnocchi. This dish offers a meaningful way to incorporate fresh produce into your diet, making it as healthy as it is satisfying.

Storing Tips & Variations

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the salad in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. For those looking to add a unique twist, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or mint, or switch the cheese to feta for a different flavor profile. You can also serve it cold, making it a perfect option for meal prep during the week.

Conclusion

Grilled Gnocchi Salad is a delightful dish to make and share. The combination of grilled vegetables, tender gnocchi, and creamy goat cheese creates a tantalizing experience for your taste buds. It’s a recipe worth trying, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a simple weeknight meal. Don’t forget to share your experience with this delicious dish, and let us know how you made it your own!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of pre-packaged?
Absolutely! Fresh gnocchi will offer an even softer texture, and you may need to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

2. Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian. Ensure that any cheese you use, like goat cheese or Parmesan, aligns with your dietary preferences.

3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture, you can prepare the components (grilled vegetables, gnocchi) ahead and toss them together with dressing right before serving.

4. What can I substitute for goat cheese?
If you don’t have goat cheese or prefer a different flavor, feta cheese or ricotta can be great alternatives that provide creaminess and tang.

5. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
You can find gluten-free gnocchi made from alternatives like potato or rice flour, and the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure to double-check your product labels.

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