So finally things in the newly renovated kitchen are getting back to normal.  It’s so nice to finally have a workable surface again instead of the plywood counters we had while waiting for the granite.

* A quick tip for anyone in a similar situation:  apply contact sticky paper to the plywood.  It provides a wipe-able temporary surface in a pinch.

Even though it’s the same kitchen layout, I did a lot of reorganizing and purging of stuff I don’t use.  So now I find myself turning in circles cause I’m not used to where everything is.  It’s sort of throwing me off my game.  I guess it’ll just take me a little time to get used to it but it’s frustrating trying to cook like that.

Yesterday I made this simple Gnocchi Marinara.  I love pasta and am always looking for new recipes to try.  This one is a great go to weeknight meal.  Using store bought gnocchi, you simply used canned tomatoes to make your own quick sauce.  Serve it with some frozen garlic bread and you’ve got a hearty homemade meal in a snap.

Gnocchi Marinara

adapted from Weight Watchers

Ingredients:

16 oz dry potato gnocchi
2 teaspoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
14.5 oz can RedPack whole peeled tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian Seasoning
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Directions:

1.  Cook the gnocchi according to package directions. Drain and keep warm.

2.  Heat the oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until golden, about 5 minutes.

3.  Add the minced garlic, tomatoes, dried seasoning and red pepper. With a wooden spoon, break up the tomatoes into smaller chunks.

4.  Cook until the tomatoes have broken down to form a thick sauce, about 20 minutes. Add the gnocchi; toss to coat.