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Gnudi

Gnudi are Tuscan Italian dumplings made primarily from ricotta, often with spinach and semolina, and are commonly described as gnocchi-like or as the filling of ravioli without the pasta shell.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Gnudi are Tuscan Italian dumplings made primarily from ricotta, often with spinach and semolina. They are commonly described as gnocchi-like or as the filling of ravioli without the pasta shell. The name comes from the Tuscan word for “naked,” reflecting their “nude ravioli” idea.

Name and meaning

Gnudi is a Tuscan term meaning “naked.” The name reflects the idea that the dumplings are essentially ravioli filling served without the pasta casing.

Ingredients and preparation

Gnudi are usually made with ricotta, semolina, and often spinach, then shaped into small dumplings and cooked by boiling. They are generally lighter and more delicate than potato-based gnocchi.

Regional origins

The dish is associated with Tuscany, and some sources note that it is called malfatti in Siena. It is a regional Italian preparation rather than a standardized national dish.

Comparison with gnocchi and ravioli

Gnudi are often compared with gnocchi because of their shape and cooking method, but they differ in composition. They are also compared with ravioli because they resemble the filling of stuffed pasta without the outer dough.

Key facts

  • Gnudi are gnocchi-like dumplings made from ricotta rather than potatoes.
  • The term comes from Tuscan and means “naked,” referring to the absence of pasta wrapping.
  • They are often described as “nude ravioli” or ravioli filling without the shell.
  • Common versions include ricotta with spinach, though some are made without spinach.
  • The dish is associated with Tuscany and is also known as malfatti in some places.
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Canadian context

Gnudi appear on Italian restaurant menus in Canada and are familiar to Canadian readers through Tuscan and modern Italian cuisine, especially as a lighter alternative to gnocchi.

Frequently asked questions

What are gnudi?
Gnudi are Tuscan dumplings made mainly from ricotta, often with spinach and semolina. They are similar to gnocchi but are usually described as ravioli filling without the pasta shell.
Why are they called gnudi?
The name comes from the Tuscan word for “naked.” It refers to the idea of “nude ravioli,” meaning the filling is served without pasta around it.
Are gnudi the same as gnocchi?
No. Gnudi are similar in shape and serving style, but gnocchi are usually potato-based, while gnudi are typically cheese-based.
Where do gnudi come from?
Gnudi are associated with Tuscany in Italy and are part of Tuscan regional cuisine.
What does malfatti mean?
Malfatti is another name used for gnudi in some Italian regions. It is commonly translated as “badly made” or “misshapen.”
How are gnudi usually served?
They are typically boiled and served with sauce; common accompaniments include butter and sage or other simple sauces.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gnudi
    Supports: Definition, Tuscan origin, meaning of the name, relation to gnocchi, and alternative name malfatti.
  2. Wikipedia (German) — https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gnudi
    Supports: Tuscan origin, use of malfatti in Siena, and description as pasta filling without a wrapper.
  3. Wikipedia (Slovak) — https://sk.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gnudi
    Supports: Ingredients, pronunciation, Tuscan meaning of the name, and traditional serving with butter and sage.
  4. Chicago Tribune — https://www.chicagotribune.com/2014/01/10/gnudi-may-make-you-forget-ravioli/
    Supports: Description of gnudi as ricotta dumplings and comparison with ravioli and gnocchi.