Tuscan Vegetarian Gnocchi Recipe

This Tuscan Vegetarian Gnocchi is a delightful and comforting dish featuring soft gnocchi in a creamy sauce with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and white beans. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Ingredients

• Gnocchi:
• 16 ounces uncooked gnocchi (store-bought)
• Base Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 shallot, minced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), sliced
• 15 ounces cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (1 can)
• Sauce Ingredients:
• ⅓ cup vegetable broth
• ⅓ cup unsweetened plant milk (such as almond or soy)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 15 ounces fire-roasted diced tomatoes (1 can)
• Greens:
• 6 ounces fresh organic spinach
• Seasoning:
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:

• If using dry sun-dried tomatoes, hydrate them by placing them in boiling water for about 15 minutes. Drain and chop.

Sauté Aromatics:

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and sauté until it begins to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
• Stir in the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Cook the Gnocchi:

• In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.

Combine Ingredients:

• Add the vegetable broth, cannellini beans, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, and cooked gnocchi to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
• Pour in the plant milk and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add Spinach:

• Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until wilted and everything is heated through.

Serve:

• Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Tips

• For added creaminess, you can use cashew cream instead of plant milk.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.

Tips for Making the Best Vegan Gnocchi

1. Use the Right Potatoes: Opt for starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet, as they yield a fluffier texture.
2. Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix the ingredients just until combined to avoid tough gnocchi.
3. Cook Potatoes Properly: Boil potatoes until fork-tender, then let them cool slightly before peeling and mashing to prevent excess moisture.
4. Flour Gradually: Start with less flour and add more as needed to achieve a soft, slightly tacky dough.
5. Shape Carefully: Roll the dough gently and cut into small pieces; use a fork to create ridges for better sauce adherence.

Making a Creamy Sauce Without Using Dairy

• Cashew Cream: Soak cashews in water for a few hours, then blend with water until smooth for a rich, creamy base.
• Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for a creamy texture and subtle sweetness.
• Plant-Based Cream Alternatives: Brands like Silk or Oatly offer cream alternatives that can be used in sauces.
• Silken Tofu: Blend silken tofu with nutritional yeast and seasonings for a creamy, dairy-free sauce.

Good Side Dishes to Pair with Tuscan Gnocchi

1. Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that complements the flavors of the gnocchi.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the gnocchi.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and garlic makes a great appetizer or side.

Using Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh

Yes, you can use frozen spinach in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it first and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the dish. This will prevent the sauce from becoming too watery.

Variations of Tuscan Gnocchi with Different Vegetables

1. Mushroom Gnocchi: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor and meaty texture.
2. Zucchini Gnocchi: Incorporate diced zucchini or yellow squash for added freshness.
3. Bell Pepper Gnocchi: Sauté bell peppers along with garlic for sweetness and crunch.
4. Kale or Swiss Chard Gnocchi: Use these greens instead of spinach for a different flavor profile and added nutrients.

These tips and variations will help you create delicious vegan gnocchi dishes tailored to your preferences!

Enjoy this delicious Tuscan Vegetarian Gnocchi as a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare!