Looking for a simple yet delicious meal? You’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi recipe is easy to make and full of flavor. With just a few key ingredients, you can whip up a comforting dish that your whole family will love. Whether you’re busy or just craving something tasty, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that brings joy to your table and warmth to your heart.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food: This creamy tomato spinach gnocchi is the ultimate comfort food, combining soft gnocchi with a rich, flavorful sauce that warms the soul.
- Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with fresh spinach and tomatoes, this dish not only satisfies your cravings but also packs in some essential nutrients.
- Versatile: This recipe can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it a flexible option for various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce Ingredients
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, including juices
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Seasoning and Garnish
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
To create the creamy tomato spinach gnocchi, gather your main ingredients first. Gnocchi serves as the base, providing a soft, pillowy texture. Olive oil adds richness, while garlic gives a wonderful aroma.
Next, focus on the sauce. Diced tomatoes bring acidity, and heavy cream adds a luscious creaminess. Fresh spinach not only adds color but also enhances nutrition.
Finally, for seasoning and garnish, Italian seasoning blends well with the dish. Parmesan cheese brings a savory note. Fresh basil adds a pop of flavor and a lovely look.
Each ingredient plays a key role, making this dish a cozy favorite. Enjoy picking fresh basil from your garden or local store for the best taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Gnocchi
– Boil a large pot of salted water.
– Add the gnocchi and cook for 2-3 minutes. They are done when they float. Drain and set aside.
Sautéing the Garlic
– Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
– Add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until it smells great. Don’t let it burn.
Preparing the Tomato Sauce
– Pour in 1 can of diced tomatoes with their juices.
– Stir in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens.
Combining Ingredients
– Lower the heat and add 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well to mix.
– Add 2 cups of chopped spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2 minutes.
Final Touches
– Sprinkle in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until it melts into the sauce.
– Taste the dish and add more salt or pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions
– Serve the creamy gnocchi in shallow bowls.
– Garnish with fresh basil leaves, and maybe extra Parmesan on top. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Gnocchi Perfectly
To cook gnocchi just right, boil water with salt. The water should be at a rolling boil. Cook the gnocchi for 2-3 minutes. They are done when they float to the water’s surface. If you use store-bought gnocchi, follow the package directions. Homemade gnocchi may need a bit more time, so watch them closely.
Enhancing Flavor
To boost flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. A dash of garlic powder also gives depth. If you want protein, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp. Sausage can also add a hearty touch. Each option brings its own unique taste to the dish.
Visual Presentation
For a beautiful plate, use shallow bowls for serving. This allows the colorful sauce to shine. Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for a nice touch. Add a drizzle of olive oil for a glossy finish. Fresh basil leaves add a vibrant green color, making the dish even more appealing.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh spinach and high-quality canned tomatoes. This enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Gnocchi should be cooked just until they float to the surface to maintain a soft and pillowy texture.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken or vegetable broth for a delicious variation.
- Garnish with a Twist: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness before serving.
Variations
Vegan Adaptation
To make this dish vegan, you can easily swap out the cream and cheese. Instead of heavy cream, use a plant-based cream, like cashew or coconut cream. These options add a nice richness without the dairy. For cheese, try nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese substitute. Both will give a cheesy flavor without animal products.
Gluten-Free Option
If you need a gluten-free meal, use gluten-free gnocchi. Many brands make gluten-free gnocchi using rice or potato flour. You can find it in most grocery stores. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, and you will enjoy the same great taste.
Adding Protein
Want to add some protein? You can include chicken, shrimp, or sausage. For chicken, use cooked, diced, or shredded pieces. If you choose shrimp, cook them until they turn pink and firm. For sausage, slice and sauté it before mixing it into the sauce. Each of these options gives your dish an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers, let the creamy tomato spinach gnocchi cool down. Once cool, transfer it to an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh for up to three days in the fridge. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or cream to keep the sauce smooth. Stir often until heated through.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for later enjoyment. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. For quick thawing, use the microwave on low. Once thawed, reheat in a skillet with a bit of water or cream. This keeps the gnocchi creamy and delicious.
FAQs
What is gnocchi?
Gnocchi are small dumplings made from potatoes, flour, and eggs. They can be soft and chewy. You can find different types:
– Potato Gnocchi: The most common type.
– Ricotta Gnocchi: Made with ricotta cheese for a lighter texture.
– Pumpkin Gnocchi: Adds sweetness and color.
Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, you can swap in many vegetables! Try these:
– Mushrooms: Add rich flavor and texture.
– Zucchini: Light and fresh.
– Peas: Sweet and colorful.
– Bell Peppers: For a crunchy bite.
How long does it take to make gnocchi?
Making gnocchi takes about 30 minutes if you make it from scratch. If you use store-bought gnocchi, it only takes 10 minutes. Homemade gnocchi can taste great, but store-bought is quick and easy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare this dish ahead of time! Here are some tips:
– Cooked Gnocchi: Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
– Sauce: It keeps well for about 3 days in the fridge.
– Freezing: You can freeze the sauce and gnocchi separately. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
This blog post covered a delicious gnocchi dish from ingredients to serving. You learned about key components like gnocchi, garlic, and Italian herbs. The step-by-step guide made cooking easy, while tips enhanced the dish’s flavor and look. Variations can suit different diets, and storage tips help keep leftovers fresh.
Now, you can create a tasty meal that impresses. Enjoy cookin
