Chickpea Gnocchi is a delicious, protein-packed twist on the classic Italian comfort food. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients like cooked chickpeas and chickpea flour, this version is naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan-friendly. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner idea or a plant-based pasta alternative, these gnocchi are soft, satisfying, and easy to make from scratch.
What Is Chickpea Gnocchi?
Chickpea Gnocchi is a modern, healthy take on traditional Italian gnocchi, replacing potatoes and wheat flour with chickpeas and chickpea flour. While traditional gnocchi is known for its soft, doughy texture, this version brings a unique nutty flavor and added nutrition. Chickpeas are rich in fiber and plant-based protein, making these gnocchi an excellent option for anyone looking to add more legumes to their diet.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Gluten-free and high in plant-based protein
- Minimal ingredients—just chickpeas, olive oil, and flour
- Soft, pillowy texture with a nutty flavor twist
- Freezer-friendly and meal-prep approved
- Easily adaptable with herbs, spices, or sauces
Pro Tips for the Best Chickpea Gnocchi
- Blend chickpeas thoroughly: Aim for a smooth, lump-free paste before adding flour.
- Don’t over-knead: Stop kneading once the dough is cohesive and no longer sticky.
- Dust lightly with flour: Prevent sticking while rolling and cutting.
- Chill before cooking: Letting the gnocchi rest in the fridge helps them firm up.
- Use a fork: For classic ridges that help sauce cling better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Chickpea Gnocchi Without Chickpea Flour?
Yes, you can try using oat flour or all-purpose flour, though the texture and flavor may change.
Are Chickpea Gnocchi Gluten-Free?
Yes! Both chickpeas and chickpea flour are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
What Sauces Pair Well With Chickpea Gnocchi?
Try it with pesto, sage and browned butter, tomato sauce, or a drizzle of olive oil and lemon.
Do I Need to Peel the Chickpeas?
Peeling isn’t necessary, but doing so can help create an even smoother dough.
Can I Use Canned Chickpeas?
Yes, just rinse and drain them well before blending.
How to Freeze Chickpea Gnocchi
Place uncooked gnocchi on a floured tray and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and keep frozen for up to 2 months. Boil directly from frozen—no need to thaw.
How to Store Chickpea Gnocchi
After boiling, store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a touch of olive oil or gently warm them in sauce.
Ingredients
How To Make Chickpea Gnocchi
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Place cooked chickpeas and olive oil in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Place cooked chickpeas and olive oil in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
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Transfer chickpea purée to a bowl. Add salt, pepper, and chickpea flour. Mix and knead until a soft, non-sticky dough forms.
Transfer chickpea purée to a bowl. Add salt, pepper, and chickpea flour. Mix and knead until a soft, non-sticky dough forms.
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On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out into a square about 1 cm thick.
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out into a square about 1 cm thick.
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Slice into strips, then into small gnocchi-sized chunks.
Slice into strips, then into small gnocchi-sized chunks.
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Roll each piece along the tines of a fork to create ridges (optional). Place the gnocchi on a floured tray and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Roll each piece along the tines of a fork to create ridges (optional). Place the gnocchi on a floured tray and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
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Drop the chilled gnocchi into a pot of boiling salted water. Once they float, they’re ready!
Drop the chilled gnocchi into a pot of boiling salted water. Once they float, they’re ready!
Pair with your favorite sauce and enjoy warm.
Pair with your favorite sauce and enjoy warm.
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