I’m so happy to share my Rainbow Grilled Gnocchi Skewers recipe because it is colorful, fresh, and really fun to eat. Crispy grilled potato gnocchi is paired with juicy vegetables and tossed in a bright lemon and herb dressing. Every bite is a mix of soft, crispy, and fresh flavors. It is perfect for summer meals, cookouts, or easy entertaining.
Level: Easy
Total Time: about 55 minutes
Prep Time: about 30 minutes
Cook Time: about 25 minutes
Yield: about 6 servings
Course: Side Dish or Appetizer
Cuisine: Vegetarian, Italian inspired
I still remember the first time I made these gnocchi skewers at home, they disappeared faster than I expected. There is something really satisfying about grilled food on a stick, especially when it is colorful and full of veggies.
This recipe is special because the gnocchi gets crispy on the outside but stays soft and creamy inside. The fresh vegetables add crunch and sweetness, while the lemon and herbs tie everything together.
These skewers are great for summer grilling, backyard meals, or when you want a vegetarian dish that feels exciting. You can serve them as a side dish or pass them around as a handheld appetizer.
How to Make Rainbow Grilled Gnocchi Skewers
This dish brings together crispy potatoes, fresh vegetables, and a bright lemon dressing. Here is how it all comes together:
• Potato gnocchi lightly boiled so it stays firm on the grill
• Colorful vegetables that grill until tender and slightly charred
• Olive oil and lemon juice for a fresh, simple base
• Fresh herbs that add big flavor
• Skewers to keep everything easy to grill and serve
• A sprinkle of creamy cheese at the end
It is a simple grilled recipe with bold color and very little stress.
Ingredients
• 12 oz potato gnocchi
• 1 large bell pepper, chopped into chunks, any color
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 red onion, chopped into chunks
• 1/2 cup olive oil, divided
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, divided
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 4 oz goat cheese crumbles
Directions
- Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill to about 400°F and lightly oil the grates so nothing sticks. - Par Cook the Gnocchi:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook for about 1 minute, just until they float. Drain and rinse with cold water, then set aside. - Make the First Dressing Mix:
In a baking dish or bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and a small pinch of black pepper. - Build the Skewers:
Thread gnocchi, bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers, repeating the pattern until everything is used. - Coat the Skewers:
Roll the skewers in the olive oil and lemon mixture so they are lightly coated. Save the remaining liquid for later. - Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 20 minutes. Turn them every 5 minutes so they cook evenly and get lightly crispy. - Make the Herb Dressing:
Add the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, basil, mint, and cilantro to the leftover oil mixture. Whisk until combined. - Finish and Serve:
Place the grilled skewers on a serving plate. Pour the herb dressing over the top and finish with goat cheese crumbles.
Process Details
• Par Cooking the Gnocchi: Boiling the gnocchi briefly helps it stay together and grill without falling apart.
• High Heat Grilling: A hot grill helps the gnocchi crisp and gives the vegetables light char.
• Oil Coating: Rolling the skewers in oil keeps them from sticking and adds flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Using fresh herbs makes the dressing taste bright and lively.
• Cheese at the End: Adding cheese after grilling keeps it creamy instead of melted away.
Tips for Success
• Do not skip boiling the gnocchi, it helps a lot on the grill.
• Cut vegetables into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
• Use metal or soaked wooden skewers to prevent burning.
• Feel free to swap vegetables with others that grill well.
• Feta cheese works well if you do not have goat cheese.
• Taste the dressing and adjust salt or lemon to your liking.
Serving Ideas
• Summer Appetizer: Serve right on the skewers for easy grabbing.
• Light Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
• Vegetarian Meal: Serve with grilled mushrooms or veggie burgers.
• Salad Style: Slide everything off the skewers and serve in a bowl.
• Extra Fresh: Add a handful of greens underneath the skewers.
Storage & Freezing
• Refrigerator: Remove from skewers and store in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days.
• Reheating: Eat cold or reheat gently in a pan or microwave.
• Freezing: Not recommended, the vegetables and gnocchi can change texture.
• Leftover Tip: The flavors get even better after sitting overnight.
Nutrition Info (Approximate per Serving)
• Calories: ~330
• Protein: ~7g
• Carbohydrates: ~26g
• Fat: ~23g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sodium: ~500mg
• Sugar: ~4g
Rainbow Grilled Gnocchi Skewers are bright, crispy, and full of fresh flavor. They are easy to make, fun to serve, and perfect for warm weather meals.
I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do. It is a great way to turn simple ingredients into something colorful and memorable.
