Sunday, February 11, 2007

Gnocchi with Spinach and Bacon

This recipe is my variation of a dish I enjoyed when vacationing in Bar Harbor, ME. Because there are several pans necessary, and some items cook quickly, I've tried to make the process as easy as possible by including steps. Enjoy!

extra virgin olive oil
1 to 2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, sliced into half moons
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
3-4 large handfuls fresh spinach leaves, chopped in half
1/4 cup pine nuts
1 package gnocchi, mini size
2 strips bacon

1. Start water boiling for gnocchi.

2. Coat bottom of large saucepan with olive oil. Heat on medium high heat and add 1 to 2 tablespoons of butter. When melted, add onions. Saute for 30 seconds and then add garlic. Turn heat to low and mix periodically.

3. In a separate pan, cook the bacon until crispy. Let drain on a paper towel.

4. Add the tomatoes to the onions and garlic. Saute well. Add the pine nuts and spinach. Mix. Make sure the heat is low and cover with foil. The spinach will wilt rather quickly.

5. Add the gnocchi to boiling water. They will cook quickly, in 2-3 minutes. When they float, they're done. Drain well.

6. Add the gnocchi to the saucepan and mix well - make sure that they're coated with the sauce. Finally, break the bacon into small pieces and add to the pan. Mix, and serve warm. Serves 3-4.

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