PANC, healthy eating, pasta

Ora-pro-nóbis (Pereskia aculeata) is a cactus species considered an unconventional food plant that can enhance the nutritional value of diets, as it contains important nutrients for health and well-being, especially proteins and fiber. The powder obtained from its leaves can be used in food preparation, enriching its nutritional value. Gnocchi is a type of fresh pasta, but it does not have significant nutritional value. The addition of ora-pro-nóbis leaf powder (OPNP) could fill this nutritional gap.

This study aimed to develop cassava gnocchi with different OPNP concentrations (0%, 2.5%, and 5%) and analyze their physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory parameters. The results indicated a considerable protein content in OPNP and the presence of satisfactory bioactive compounds. The gnocchi formulation containing **2.5% OPNP** showed the best performance in sensory evaluation, in addition to presenting relevant nutritional and technological characteristics.

It is concluded that OPNP has the potential to enrich nutritional intake and improve food quality**, and thus, the development of the proposed gnocchi aligns with consumers' emerging demands for diversified foods that promote health and well-being.