Angela Hartnett Italian Summer Recipes: Grilled Peaches, Gnudi 2026

Angela Hartnett's Italian summer recipes bring fresh, vibrant flavors to your table, featuring grilled peaches, green beans, and gnudi in tomato sauce. These dishes celebrate the best of seasonal produce and are perfect for sunny days. Whether you're hosting a garden party or enjoying a quiet meal, these recipes are sure to impress.

Grilled Peaches, Mozzarella, and Green Beans

This salad is a delightful combination of sweet, creamy, and crunchy textures. The charred peaches add a smoky depth, while the buffalo mozzarella provides a rich, milky contrast. Green beans bring a fresh crunch, and the balsamic dressing ties everything together with a tangy kick.

To make this dish, start by blanching the green beans until tender, then refresh them in ice water. Tear the mozzarella into large pieces and let it come to room temperature. Grill the peach halves on a hot griddle until charred and slightly softened. Toss the beans with sliced shallot, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Arrange everything on a platter, scatter with basil, toasted nuts, and lemon zest, and finish with a drizzle of olive oil.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

• Peaches: Use ripe but firm peaches to hold their shape on the grill. Nectarines work well too.
• Buffalo mozzarella: Substitute with burrata or fresh cow's milk mozzarella for a creamier texture.
• Green beans: Haricots verts or asparagus can be used instead.
• Balsamic vinegar: White wine vinegar offers a lighter, sharper flavor.

Gnudi with Roast Tomato Sauce

Gnudi, meaning "nude" in Italian, are soft dumplings made from ricotta and spinach, similar to ravioli filling without the pasta. They are light, pillowy, and perfect for soaking up a rich tomato sauce. This recipe features a slow-roasted tomato sauce that brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.

For the sauce, roast plum tomatoes with garlic and thyme until caramelized. Blend until smooth, then simmer to thicken. The gnudi are formed by mixing ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, and egg, then chilling the mixture before shaping. Cook them in simmering water until they float, then serve with the sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Comparison: Gnudi vs. Gnocchi

Tips for Perfect Summer Dining

These recipes are designed to be served at room temperature, making them ideal for outdoor gatherings. The grilled peaches can be prepared ahead and assembled just before serving. For the gnudi, ensure the mixture is well-chilled to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.

Pair these dishes with a crisp white wine like Vermentino or a light rosé to enhance the fresh flavors. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette would complement the meal beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

• Fresh, seasonal ingredients are the star of these Italian summer recipes.
• Grilled peaches add a unique smoky-sweet flavor to salads.
• Gnudi are a lighter alternative to pasta and perfect with tomato sauce.
• Serve at room temperature for the best flavor experience.

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