Method

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 220˚C/390˚F/gas mark 6. Bake the potatoes in their skins for 1-1¼ hours until tender, then remove the flesh and mash until smooth. Mix in the ricotta, a pinch of salt and white pepper, and the flour. Make a well in the middle, add the beaten egg and combine the mixture with floured hands. Work in the thyme leaves until a smooth dough has formed. (Be careful not to overwork it, though.)

Step 2: Cut the dough in half and shape each piece into a long cigar, about 1.5cm thick. Using the back of a floured table knife, cut each length into 2cm pieces to make the gnocchi. Gently make a dent in each one – it will allow the gnocchi to hold more sauce.

Step 3: Add the gnocchi to a large pan of boiling water, tilting it from side to side briefly to stop them sticking together. Simmer for 1½-2 minutes, until they start to float. Drain and leave the gnocchi to dry for 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Heat a frying pan over a medium-high heat and add a little olive oil. Add the gnocchi to the pan with a pinch of salt and black pepper and sauté for 1-2 minutes on each side until coloured. Add the peas, butter and thyme leaves. Toss, then add the lemon zest. Serve with grated parmesan.

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Recipe: Homemade Gnocchi with Peas