The comforting aroma of simmering tomatoes and fresh basil wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy café in Italy. If you’re on the hunt for a quick yet satisfying meal, look no further than this Creamy Vegan Tomato Gnocchi Soup. Perfectly blending pillowy gnocchi with a rich, fire-roasted tomato broth, this soup delivers a heartwarming experience without the dairy. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this simple, one-pot wonder that both vegans and non-vegans will love. The best part? It’s a delightful crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Ready to dive into the creamy goodness of this tomato gnocchi soup? Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
Why is this soup a must-try?
Creamy Comfort: This vegan gnocchi soup is a warm hug in a bowl, ideal for chilly evenings.
Quick & Easy: Whip it up in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich flavors and cozy vibes, it’s a hit among vegans and non-vegans alike.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap gnocchi with pasta or add veggies like spinach for extra nutrition.
One-Pot Wonder: Less mess in the kitchen means more time to savor each delicious spoonful.
Pair it with a side of crusty sourdough bread or enjoy it alongside a light salad to complete your meal!
Creamy Gnocchi Soup Ingredients
-
For the Soup Base
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing, substitute with avocado oil for a unique twist.
• Medium Yellow Onion (1, diced) – Provides foundational flavor; swap for a white onion if preferred.
• Garlic Cloves (4, minced) – Brings aromatic depth; fresh garlic offers the best taste.
• Fire Roasted Tomatoes (28 oz can) – Key flavor source, adds sweetness; regular tomatoes with a dash of maple syrup can work too.
• Vegetable Broth (1 ½ cups) – Liquid base for the soup; low-sodium or homemade broth is great too.
• Salt (¼ tsp) – Enhances all flavors; adjust to taste according to broth saltiness.
• Brown Sugar (1 tbsp) – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes; maple syrup makes a handy substitute.
• Red Pepper Flakes (¼ tsp) – Introduces a hint of warmth; omit for a milder flavor. -
For the Creaminess
• Coconut Milk (1 cup, full-fat or lite) – Delivers creaminess without dairy; non-dairy cream can add thickness. -
For the Gnocchi
• Fresh or Frozen Gnocchi (16 oz) – The heart of the soup, creating delightful texture; ensure it’s gluten-free if necessary. -
For the Garnish
• Fresh Basil (1 cup, plus more for serving) – Adds a fresh, vibrant flavor; dried basil can be a quick alternative but won’t have the same zest.
Create this Creamy Gnocchi Soup in a single pot for minimal cleanup and maximum comfort this season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Gnocchi Soup
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced medium yellow onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion is soft and translucent. This forms the flavorful base of your Creamy Gnocchi Soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. The aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that it’s time to add the next ingredients. This step adds delicious depth to the soup.
Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth
Add the fire-roasted tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Blend for Smoothness
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup to your desired consistency. You may choose to leave some tomato chunks for texture or blend it completely for a creamy finish. Be cautious while blending, as the soup will be hot.
Step 5: Final Touches
Return the pot to medium heat and bring the soup back to a gentle boil. Slowly add 1 cup of coconut milk, fresh or frozen gnocchi, and 1 cup of fresh basil. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the gnocchi float to the surface and are cooked through, giving your creamy soup its signature heartiness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the piping hot Creamy Gnocchi Soup into bowls and garnish with additional basil, a drizzle of coconut milk, and freshly cracked pepper. This vibrant and hearty soup is best enjoyed with crusty sourdough bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
What to Serve with Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Soup
Savor the exquisite flavors of this delicious soup by pairing it with complementary sides that enhance every bite and create a fulfilling meal.
-
Crusty Sourdough Bread: The perfect vessel for sopping up the creamy goodness, this warm, crunchy bread brings a delightful contrast to the soup’s texture.
-
Light Green Salad: A mix of crisp romaine, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing palate cleanser, balancing the richness of the soup.
-
Garlic Breadsticks: With their soft, buttery interior and crispy exterior, these breadsticks are an irresistible side that will delight your taste buds as you dip them into the soup.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Pair the soup with seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts. Their caramelized flavors add depth and a hearty feel to the meal.
-
Herb-Infused Quinoa: A wholesome side that not only adds texture but also complements the soup’s creaminess. Seasoned with herbs, this dish enhances the overall freshness of your dinner.
-
Sparkling Water with Lemon: Quench your thirst with crisp, bubbly water spritzed with lemon. This drink refreshes your palate and perfectly accentuates the dish’s vibrant flavors.
-
Chilled White Wine: Opt for a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to elevate the dining experience. Its acidity harmonizes beautifully with the rich tomato-based soup.
Enjoy these pairs, and make each serving of this creamy gnocchi soup a memorable dining experience for you and your loved ones!
Make Ahead Options
This Creamy Vegan Tomato Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep and saves you precious time on busy weeknights! You can chop the onions and garlic, and even mix the soup base (excluding the gnocchi and coconut milk) up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the aromatics, add the prepped soup base ingredients, bring to a boil, then stir in the coconut milk and gnocchi. Cook until the gnocchi float, and you’ll have a delicious, cozy meal that tastes just as fresh as when cooked the same day!
Creamy Gnocchi Soup Variations
Get ready to make this comforting soup uniquely yours; you’ll find delightful ways to personalize each bowl!
-
Gluten-Free: Swap regular gnocchi for gluten-free varieties or even try quinoa for a nutritious twist that still delivers texture.
-
Dairy-Free Boost: Substitute coconut milk with almond or cashew cream for a different creaminess; you might discover a new favorite!
-
Veggie-Packed: Toss in fresh spinach or kale for added nutrition and a pop of color. These greens wilt beautifully into the soup, enhancing both flavor and health.
-
Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by increasing red pepper flakes or adding a splash of your favorite hot sauce—perfect for spice lovers!
-
Herb-Infused: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme instead of basil. These can lend unique flavors that dance on your palate.
-
Creamy Swap: If you’re not keen on coconut milk, try using oat milk or a vegan sour cream alternative to achieve that creamy texture without the coconut flavor.
-
Flavor Boost: Add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra layer of richness that complements the tomato base beautifully.
Consider pairing this soup with a side of crusty sourdough bread to soak up those delicious flavors. If you love exploring new recipes, check out Pumpkin Gnocchi Warm or warm up with a hearty Mushroom Pasta Soup!
Storage Tips for Creamy Gnocchi Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stovetop to prevent overcooking the gnocchi.
Reheating: If the soup thickens in the fridge, add a splash of vegetable broth while reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
Freezer: This creamy gnocchi soup does not freeze well due to the coconut milk and gnocchi; it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Leftover Uses: If you have leftover soup, consider repurposing it as a sauce for pasta or drizzling over grilled vegetables for a tasty twist!
Expert Tips for Creamy Gnocchi Soup
-
Blend Cautiously: When using an immersion blender, allow the soup to cool slightly to avoid burns from hot splashes.
-
Gnocchi Cooking Time: If using frozen gnocchi, they may take longer to cook. Avoid overcooking to prevent them from becoming mushy in your delicious creamy gnocchi soup.
-
Adjust Thickness: If the soup becomes too thick upon reheating, simply add a splash of vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
-
Fresh Basil: Always opt for fresh basil when possible, as dried basil lacks the vibrant flavor that elevates your creamy gnocchi soup.
-
Add Nutrients: Feel free to toss in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra nutritional boost and beautiful color!
Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of gnocchi should I use?
I recommend using fresh gnocchi for the best texture and flavor in your creamy soup. If gluten-free is a must, look for labels that specify gluten-free options. Frozen gnocchi can also work, but be prepared for slightly longer cooking times—around 6-8 minutes until they float.
How should I store leftovers of creamy gnocchi soup?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stovetop to avoid mushy gnocchi. If you find it thickened too much, simply add a splash of vegetable broth to return it to the desired consistency.
Can I freeze creamy gnocchi soup?
Unfortunately, this creamy gnocchi soup doesn’t freeze well due to the presence of coconut milk and gnocchi, which can both alter in texture once frozen and reheated. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or within a few days to experience its creamy goodness at its best.
What if my soup is too thick?
If your creamy gnocchi soup becomes too thick while reheating, no worries! Just add a splash of vegetable broth, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, it’s all about achieving that perfect creaminess that makes this dish so delightful.
Can my pets eat this soup?
While many ingredients, like tomatoes and spinach, are safe for pets, they should not have seasonings, especially onion and garlic, which are toxic to dogs and cats. This soup is best enjoyed by humans only, so consider making a plain version for your furry friends without seasonings or garlic.
Is it possible to make this dish nut-free?
Absolutely! The recipe calls for coconut milk for creaminess, but you can substitute it with a non-dairy cream that does not contain nuts or even use more vegetable broth for a lighter version. Just make sure whatever alternative you choose aligns with your dietary needs!
Creamy Gnocchi Soup - Cozy Vegan Comfort in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add the fire-roasted tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup to your desired consistency.
- Return pot to medium heat, add coconut milk, gnocchi, and basil. Cook for 3-4 minutes until gnocchi float to the surface.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional basil and a drizzle of coconut milk.
Leave a Reply