Quick Homemade Gnocchi

Place potato flakes in a medium-sized bowl. Pour in boiling water; stir until blended and let cool.

Stir in the beaten egg, salt and pepper. Blend in enough flour to make a fairly stiff dough (you may need extra flour).

Turn dough out onto a well-floured board and knead lightly. Divide dough in half. Shape each half into a long thin roll. Cut into bite-sized pieces.

Use 2 fingers to press down on each piece and pull it towards you slightly to sort of “roll” it in a little. This is hard to explain, but it gives the gnocchi their traditional shape. This step isn’t completely necessary, however. Use plenty of flour to keep them from sticking.

To cook, place a few gnocchi in boiling water with a little bit of oil to keep them from sticking. As the gnocchi rise to the top of the pot, remove them with a slotted spoon. Repeat until all are cooked.

Serve with mozzarella cheese and spaghetti sauce.