Page’s Platefuls: Crispy Gnocchi with Sunflower Seed Pesto Recipe

Sunflower season has officially bloomed in Durham Region! This summer, wander through the sunflower fields, pick-your-own bouquet, and shop the farm store products at The Sunflower Farm in Beaverton. Not only will you have the ultimate summer day, but you can bring a little piece of the farm home with you! Using sunflower seeds and other local ingredients, Chef Alex Page has created a delicious crispy gnocchi for you to try at home, and wow your family and friends!

Crispy Gnocchi with Sunflower Seed Pesto Recipe

Ingredients (serves four):

• ¼ cup roasted, salted sunflower seeds
• ½ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
• 3 cups, Thaï basil leaves
• 1 garlic clove, peeled
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus 2 tbsp  
• 1 package store bought gnocchi

Instructions:

1. Add the sunflower seeds, cheese, basil leaves and garlic to a small food processor. Pulse to slightly combine. While the machine is running, slowly add the ¼ cup of olive oil, until a pesto is formed. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
2. Heat a large frying pan over high heat. Add the remaining olive oil and the gnocchi. Cook the gnocchi without stirring or flipping for 2 to 3 minutes, or until beginning to puff up and turn golden brown. Flip the gnocchi and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until golden all over and crispy. Add the pesto, reduce heat to medium and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Place the cooked gnocchi on a large platter and top with additional basil leaves, a sprinkle of more cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately.

Chef’s notes:

• Feel free to substitute the Thai basil with other fresh herbs, such as traditional basil, mint, or parsley—anything you can find at your local markets (Oshawa Centre Farmer’s Market, Linton’s Farm Market, etc.).
• This dish works very well with with the addition of cooked in-season veg such as corn, or zucchini.
• When using store bought gnocchi, look for high quality products. This method of frying the gnocchi results in a crispy puffed end product instead of a gummy one, which can happen when boiling!

Where to get your ingredients:

The Sunflower Farm: Located in Beaverton, The Sunflower Farm is Canada’s first-ever sunflower shaped trail with 20-acres of stunning 20-acre sunflowers to explore. Wander through thousands of blooming sunflowers and stop by the farm stand to bring home sunflower seeds and other goods! Check out their event schedule to plan your visit.

This recipe was created in partnership with Chef Alex Page as part of a series focusing on field-to-fork meals using local ingredients from local businesses in Durham Region.