Looking for a quick, satisfying dinner that packs bold flavors and irresistible textures? This Crispy Pan-Fried Gnocchi with Spicy Cumin Lamb and Celery is a modern twist on comfort food. Tender gnocchi gets golden and crispy on the outside, while juicy lamb is spiced with aromatic cumin and complemented by the crunch of fresh celery.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this dish balances heat, savoriness, and a touch of freshness. With straightforward preparation and restaurant-quality flavor, it’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Serves 4
Gnocchi:
- 500g store-bought or homemade potato gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Spicy Cumin Lamb:
- 400g ground lamb
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables and Garnish:
- 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 35 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Gnocchi
- Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the gnocchi in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper, then remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Spicy Lamb
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
- Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili flakes, and coriander. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add ground lamb and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spatula.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
- Stir in the sliced celery and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until tender-crisp.
- Return the crispy gnocchi to the skillet and toss gently with the lamb and celery mixture.
Step 5: Serve
- Transfer to serving plates and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp white wine or a light, fruity red.
- Add a side of roasted cherry tomatoes or a simple green salad for freshness.
- Drizzle with a touch of yogurt or labneh for a creamy contrast.
- Make extra gnocchi crispy in a separate pan to keep textures intact for larger gatherings.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx. 1/4 of recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 |
| Protein | 23 grams |
| Total Fat | 25 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 9 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 38 grams |
| Sugars | 3 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 320 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Ground lamb provides high-quality protein and iron.
- Celery adds fiber, crunch, and freshness with minimal calories.
- Gnocchi offers a comforting source of carbohydrates.
- Spices like cumin and paprika add flavor without extra calories or sodium.
Tips for Best Results
- Use a non-stick skillet to achieve evenly crispy gnocchi.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure golden, crunchy edges.
- Adjust the chili flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- For extra flavor, toast the cumin seeds in the skillet before adding the lamb.
Variations to Try
- Add spinach or kale for extra greens.
- Substitute lamb with ground beef, chicken, or turkey for a lighter option.
- Top with grated Parmesan or feta for a salty, tangy twist.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or olives for Mediterranean flavor.
This Crispy Pan-Fried Gnocchi with Spicy Cumin Lamb and Celery delivers a delightful combination of textures, spices, and freshness in every bite. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a gourmet meal at home, or a dish that will wow guests.
With crispy gnocchi, flavorful lamb, and crisp celery, this recipe shows how simple ingredients can create a restaurant-quality dish in under 40 minutes.