Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi
One of the most delightful meals I’ve recently discovered is Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi, a dish that brings together creamy textures, vibrant colors, and irresistible flavors into one satisfying bowl. Imagine sitting down to a comforting, hearty plate filled with tender vegan gnocchi swimming in a luscious, rich sauce made of coconut cream and sunshine-drenched sun-dried tomatoes. It’s the kind of meal that feels extravagant yet is deceptively simple to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that impresses and warms the soul.
Table of Contents
I first stumbled upon this recipe one chilly evening when a craving for something creamy and comforting struck me. With just a handful of pantry staples and some fresh greens, I was able to whip up this dish in no time. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a cozy family dinner, or just treating yourself to a delicious meal, Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi is sure to please. Its balance of flavors and textures not only satisfies your palate but also leaves you feeling good about your meal choice. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be adding it to your regular meal rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: It takes just 14 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, making it a swift option for busy nights.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and coconut cream creates a rich, savory experience in every bite.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors—not to mention the delightful gnocchi—make this dish a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
- Diet-Friendly Options: This version of gnocchi suits vegans easily with its plant-based ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 500 grams store-bought vegan gnocchi: Convenient and tender, these little potato dumplings make this recipe a quick delight.
- 1 cup vegetable stock: This adds depth and warmth to the dish; use low-sodium for more control over seasoning.
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: These bring a sweet, tangy flavor that brilliantly complements the creaminess.
- 1/4 cup coconut cream: Provides a luxurious richness that enhances the texture and flavor; look for full-fat versions for the best result.
- 200 grams fresh baby spinach: Adds a vibrant green element packed with nutrients; you can substitute with kale if desired.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning: This aromatic blend elevates the flavor profile with hints of oregano, basil, and thyme.
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes: A sprinkle of heat enhances the other flavors—adjust to your preference!
- 1/4 cup vegan parmesan: For a cheesy dimension, this dairy-free option works beautifully, but you can skip it for a lighter dish.
- 10 basil leaves, chopped: Fresh basil adds brightness; feel free to substitute with parsley if basil isn’t available.
- 10 cherry tomatoes, halved: These juicy bites add freshness and color; they can be replaced with grape tomatoes or omitted if you prefer.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic brings essential flavor and aroma; use fresh for the best impact.
- 1 tsp olive oil: Just a drizzle to sauté the garlic, enhancing its flavor right from the start.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrated tomato goodness adds depth; mix it into the sauté for a richer flavor.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi
Sauté Garlic: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once warm, add in the 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant. This aromatic foundation is essential for building flavors right at the start.
Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, halved cherry tomatoes, 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes, and 1 tablespoon tomato paste. Cook for another minute to allow the spices and tomatoes to release their flavors—a quick explosion of aromas will fill your kitchen!
Pour in Vegetable Stock: Next, add the 1 cup of vegetable stock. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. This step is crucial as it prepares the broth that will cook the gnocchi just right.
Cook Gnocchi: Once simmering, add the 500 grams of store-bought vegan gnocchi. Let them cook according to package instructions, approximately 3-4 minutes with the lid on, until they’re tender and floating to the top—this indicates they’re ready to mingle with those delicious flavors!
Toss in Spinach and Cream: Once the gnocchi is cooked, toss in the 200 grams of fresh baby spinach and stir until just wilted. Then, pour in 1/4 cup of coconut cream, stirring to combine until creamy and well-blended. The spinach will add a beautiful pop of green and introduce more nutrients.
Finish with Parmesan and Basil: To top it off, sprinkle an optional 1/4 cup of vegan parmesan cheese and toss in the 10 chopped basil leaves for a fresh finish. Serve this delight while hot, as it’s best enjoyed fresh and vibrant.
Storing & Reheating
To store, let the creamy gnocchi cool to room temperature and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable stock or a bit of coconut cream in a pan over medium heat to restore creaminess, cooking until heated through.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid Overcooking Gnocchi: Keep an eye on the cooking time; overcooked gnocchi can become mushy. If they float to the top early, they’re likely done!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and spinach will yield the best flavor; don’t be shy with herbs!
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! You may find that a little extra salt or some lemon juice brightens the dish even more.
- Variety is Key: Feel free to throw in additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe is great for meal prep; simply pack it into containers for lunches throughout the week!
The elegance and rich flavors of Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi make it a favorite that keeps both the cravings at bay and your taste buds enthralled. It’s a recipe you’ll love to experiment with; switch out the veggies or adjust the spices according to your preference to make it your own. I can’t wait for you to enjoy every spoonful of this gorgeous dish!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi can be a great option. Just add them straight to the simmering stock without thawing, and increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes. They will be just as delicious!
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily find gluten-free gnocchi in stores, often made from potato or alternative flours. Just ensure any additional ingredients, like the vegetable stock and vegan parmesan, are labeled gluten-free as well.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Of course! Adding chickpeas or white beans can enhance the heartiness. For non-vegan options, grilled chicken or shrimp would work well, but be sure to cook them separately and toss them in at the end.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
To kick up the heat, simply increase the amount of chili flakes or add chopped fresh chili peppers when you’re sautéing the garlic. If you love spice, that extra heat will create a flavorful punch!
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📖 Recipe Card
Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi
- Prep Time: 14 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 34 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
- Category: One Pot
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Experience the irresistible flavor of Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi! This dish combines store-bought vegan gnocchi, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy coconut sauce, making it a fantastic choice for a quick and tasty dinner. Enjoy this comforting meal with family or friends, perfect for anyone craving homemade goodness.
Ingredients
- 500 grams store-bought vegan gnocchi
- 250 mls vegetable stock
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup coconut cream
- 200 grams fresh baby spinach
- 2 tsp italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp chilli flakes
- 1/4 cup vegan parmesan
- 10 basil leaves, chopped
- 10 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
Instructions
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, around 1-2 minutes.
- Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, halved cherry tomatoes, chili flakes, and tomato paste. Stir for another minute.
- Pour in vegetable stock and bring to a simmer.
- Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, or for 3-4 minutes in the simmering broth with the lid on.
- Once the gnocchi is tender, add the spinach and stir until wilted. Then, pour in the coconut cream and mix well.
- Sprinkle with dairy-free parmesan and fresh basil before serving. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
For a spicier dish, add more chili flakes according to taste.
Feel free to add other vegetables or plant-based proteins for added nutrition.
Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
