Mediterranean Crispy Gnocchi with Burrata, Pomegranate & Hot Honey
Mediterranean Crispy Gnocchi with Burrata, Pomegranate, and Hot Honey is one of those dishes that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to make. It brings together contrasting textures and flavors in a way that feels modern yet rooted in Mediterranean sensibilities. Crispy golden gnocchi provide a hearty base, creamy burrata adds richness, pomegranate brings bursts of freshness and acidity, and hot honey ties everything together with gentle heat and sweetness. This recipe works beautifully as a shared appetizer, a light main course, or even a special brunch dish. It feels restaurant-worthy while still being practical enough for home cooking.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Ingredients
1 lb shelf-stable potato gnocchi
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper
8 oz burrata cheese, torn into pieces
½ cup pomegranate arils
3 tablespoons hot honey (or honey mixed with chili flakes)
Optional garnish: fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook gnocchi until they float to the surface. Drain well.
Let the gnocchi air-dry for a few minutes to remove excess moisture.
Heat olive oil and butter in a wide skillet over medium-high heat.
Add gnocchi in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until golden and crisp.
Flip gnocchi and continue cooking until crisp on multiple sides.
Lower heat slightly and add garlic and oregano, stirring gently for 30 seconds.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Transfer crispy gnocchi to a serving plate while still hot.
Scatter burrata evenly over the gnocchi, allowing it to soften naturally.
Finish with pomegranate arils and drizzle generously with hot honey before serving.
Tips
Use a wide pan so gnocchi crisp instead of steaming.
Do not overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed.
Dry gnocchi well before pan-frying for maximum crispness.
Butter adds flavor but olive oil prevents burning.
Keep heat medium-high for a golden crust.
Add garlic at the end to avoid bitterness.
Tear burrata by hand for a rustic look.
Serve immediately while gnocchi are hot and crisp.
Taste hot honey first and adjust amount to preference.
Fresh herbs add color and balance richness.
Variations
Add roasted cherry tomatoes for extra sweetness.
Use ricotta or stracciatella if burrata is unavailable.
Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthier profile.
Sprinkle toasted pine nuts for crunch.
Replace hot honey with balsamic glaze for a milder finish.
Add lemon zest for brightness.
Use chili oil instead of hot honey for deeper heat.
Mix in baby spinach just before serving.
Add prosciutto crisps for a non-vegetarian version.
Use gluten-free gnocchi if needed.
Q&A
Can I skip boiling the gnocchi?
Boiling first ensures a fluffy interior before crisping.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It is best served fresh for optimal texture.
What kind of hot honey works best?
Mild hot honey balances sweetness and heat without overpowering.
Is this dish very spicy?
No, the heat is gentle and adjustable.
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, boil directly from frozen and drain well.
How do I store leftovers?
Store separately if possible and reheat gnocchi in a pan.
Can I make it vegan?
Use plant-based burrata and agave with chili flakes.
What should I serve it with?
A simple green salad or grilled vegetables work well.
Does burrata melt completely?
It softens rather than melts, creating a creamy contrast.
Can I reduce the honey?
Yes, drizzle lightly and add more to taste.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 480
Protein: 14 g
Carbohydrates: 52 g
Fat: 24 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 10 g
Conclusion
Mediterranean Crispy Gnocchi with Burrata, Pomegranate, and Hot Honey is a dish that feels playful, comforting, and elegant all at once. The contrast between crispy gnocchi, creamy cheese, juicy fruit, and sweet heat creates layers of flavor without complicated steps. It is adaptable, visually striking, and perfect for sharing. Whether served as a centerpiece dish or a standout side, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort and brings a modern Mediterranean touch to the table.