Last Updated on July 17, 2025 by recipeinspire

5 Best Tomato Gnocchi Kebabs for Your Next Backyard Party!

Are you looking to impress at your next cookout? These Tomato Gnocchi Kebabs are a game-changer that will elevate your hosting game and leave your guests raving. Imagine tender gnocchi bursting with flavors, skewered with juicy, grilled tomatoes bursting with sweetness. But what makes this dish a must-try? Surprisingly, backyard parties can often feel repetitive, with the same old burgers and hotdogs appearing every summer. A shift in the menu can reignite excitement, making your event unforgettable.

Create a fun and interactive meal with this hot dog board, featuring a variety of toppings for your Labor Day gathering. Check out our complete Labor Day Recipe guide for more ideas.

Ingredients List

To create these delicious Tomato Gnocchi Kebabs, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 package gnocchi (about 16 oz, store-bought or homemade)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes (or grape tomatoes for extra sweetness)
• Olive oil (for drizzling)
• Fresh basil (a handful, chopped)
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)

Optional substitutions: Use zucchini or bell peppers for added flavor and depth, swap out garlic powder with fresh minced garlic for a bolder taste, or try different herbs like oregano or thyme for varied flavor profiles.

Timing

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

This recipe takes only 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish, which is significantly faster than many traditional kebab recipes, shaving off approximately 20% of the time. Ideal for last-minute gatherings!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Skewers

Start by soaking wooden skewers in water for about 15 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. If using metal skewers, you can skip this step.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions until they float to the surface (approximately 3-4 minutes), then drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the cooked gnocchi and cherry tomatoes alternately onto the skewers. Leave a small space between each item for even cooking.

Step 4: Season and Drizzle

In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chopped basil. Brush this mixture generously over the assembled skewers.

Step 5: Grill the Kebabs

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until the tomatoes are charred and the gnocchi is golden.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Remove from the grill and serve immediately with fresh basil sprinkled on top for that extra touch.

Nutritional Information

Per skewer (based on 4 servings of 3 skewers each):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g

This nutritious serving contains a balanced mix of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a flavorful yet nourishing choice for your cookout.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free gnocchi, widely available in many grocery stores.
• Low-Carb Adaptations: Substitute gnocchi for cauliflower florets or zucchini slices.
• Vegan Cheese: Sprinkling with nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Serving Suggestions

These Tomato Gnocchi Kebabs can be served on their own or alongside sides like a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or even a vibrant salsa for a twist. Pair them with a chilled white wine or a refreshing mocktail to complete your backyard party.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking Gnocchi: This can lead to a mushy texture. Remember, once they float, they’re done!
2. Skipping Marinade Time: Better flavor comes from letting the skewers marinate for at least 10 minutes.
3. Incorrect Skewering: Skewering too tightly can result in uneven cooking; maintain a little space between items.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Leftovers: Store any unconsumed kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: If you anticipate leftovers, the skewers can be frozen; just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the kebabs a day in advance before grilling for hassle-free cooking.

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Conclusion

With these Tomato Gnocchi Kebabs, your next cookout will be a standout, harmonizing ease of preparation with irresistible flavors. The exciting combination of ingredients makes these kebabs a hit with guests of all ages.

Ready to take your backyard party to the next level? Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your feedback or explore more amazing recipes that will delight your taste buds!

FAQs

Q: Can I use regular pasta instead of gnocchi?
A: While gnocchi offers a unique texture, you could swap it for boiled pasta. Just adjust the cooking times as necessary!

Q: Can I prepare these kebabs in the oven?
A: Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the skewers on a parchment-lined tray for about 15 minutes.

Q: How can I add more vegetables?
A: Feel free to thread zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms onto the skewers for added nutrition and color.

By following these steps to craft flavorful and fun Tomato Gnocchi Kebabs, you’ll be sure to become the go-to chef for every backyard party!