Are you looking for a meal that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor? This One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Soup is just the answer! In under 30 minutes, you can enjoy a warm, hearty dish filled with fresh veggies and creamy goodness. Grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s perfect for any night of the week. You won’t want to miss this tasty treat!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, diced
– 1 stick celery, diced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 cup fresh spinach
– 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a lighter option)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
This soup shines with simple yet rich ingredients. The creamy texture comes from heavy cream, but you can swap it for coconut cream for a lighter touch. The gnocchi adds a delightful chewiness, while the cherry tomatoes burst with flavor.
Fresh vegetables like onion, carrot, and celery create a flavorful base. Garlic adds a warm aroma that makes the kitchen feel cozy. The seasonings, like oregano and Italian seasoning, bring the taste of Tuscany right to your bowl.
Don’t forget the garnishes! A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil makes each bowl look and taste special. Each ingredient plays a role in making this soup a lovely meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Base
To start, I heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Next, I add one small diced onion, one diced carrot, and one stick of diced celery. I sauté these veggies for about five minutes. I want them soft but not brown.
Then, I add two minced garlic cloves. I cook the garlic for another minute. Stir it often to keep it from burning. The aroma fills the kitchen, and it makes me hungry.
Cooking the Soup
After the veggies are ready, I pour in four cups of vegetable broth. I bring this mixture to a gentle boil. It usually takes a few minutes. Once it boils, I stir in a 16-ounce package of potato gnocchi. I cook them according to the package instructions, which is about three to five minutes.
Once the gnocchi are tender, I add one cup of halved cherry tomatoes, one teaspoon of dried oregano, and one teaspoon of Italian seasoning. I let this simmer for about two minutes. The flavors blend so well together.
Final Touches
Now it’s time for the best part. I reduce the heat to low and stir in one cup of fresh spinach and one cup of heavy cream. I cook it for just two to three minutes until the spinach wilts. The soup turns creamy and rich.
Finally, I season it with salt and pepper to taste. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves make it special. It’s a warm, delightful meal perfect for any day!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
Choosing the Right Gnocchi
When picking gnocchi, go for fresh or frozen options. Fresh gnocchi cooks quickly and offers a soft texture. Frozen gnocchi is convenient and has a great taste. Both types work well in soup. If you try shelf-stable gnocchi, watch the cooking time. It can become mushy if overcooked.
Adjusting Consistency with Cream
To get the perfect creaminess, use heavy cream for richness. If you want a lighter soup, coconut cream is a good substitute. Start with one cup and stir it in slowly. If you like a thicker soup, add more cream. For a thinner soup, add extra vegetable broth.
Serving Suggestions
Ideal Pairings or Accompaniments
This soup shines when served with crusty bread. A side salad with fresh greens also complements it well. For a fun twist, serve it with garlic breadsticks. They soak up the soup nicely.
Best Temperature for Serving
Serve the soup hot for the best flavor. Let it cool for a minute before serving to avoid burns. Enjoy it warm, garnished with grated Parmesan and fresh basil. This adds bright flavor and makes the dish look beautiful.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
Using different vegetables can change the soup’s taste. Feel free to swap the carrots and celery for other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. These add brightness and crunch. You can also use frozen spinach instead of fresh. It saves time and still tastes great.
Dairy-free alternatives are easy to find. Instead of heavy cream, try coconut cream. It gives a rich texture without dairy. You can also use almond or oat milk for a lighter feel. Just keep in mind to add a bit more seasoning for flavor.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding protein can make your soup heartier. Chicken or sausage works well. Cook it first, then add it when you mix in the gnocchi. It brings a savory taste that complements the creamy broth.
Spice it up with more seasonings! Red pepper flakes add a warm kick. You might also consider fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. They bring depth and freshness to each spoonful. Experiment with your favorite spices to make this soup your own.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Soup fresh, start by letting it cool. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge. This soup stays good for about 3 to 4 days. The creaminess may change a little over time.
Reheating Instructions
You can reheat the soup in two easy ways: microwave or stovetop. For the microwave, place the soup in a bowl. Heat it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway. For the stovetop, pour it into a pot. Warm it over low heat, stirring gently.
To keep the creaminess, avoid boiling the soup. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water. This will bring back its smooth texture. Enjoy your delicious meal again!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I freeze One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. Let it cool first. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It keeps well for about three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How can I make it vegan?
To make this soup vegan, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a nut milk. Use vegetable broth and skip any cheese garnishes. You can also add more veggies for extra flavor.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you want a lighter soup, try coconut cream or cashew cream. You can also use almond milk or oat milk for a lower-calorie option. These alternatives still keep the soup creamy and rich.
Additional Inquiries
Are there gluten-free alternatives for gnocchi?
Yes! Look for gluten-free gnocchi made from rice or potato. Many brands offer this option. You can also make your own gnocchi using gluten-free flour and potatoes.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Start by sautéing the veggies in a pan. Then transfer them to the slow cooker. Add the broth, gnocchi, and seasonings. Cook on low for about 4 hours. Add spinach and cream at the end.
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
This soup lasts in the fridge for about three days. Store it in an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of broth to keep it creamy. Enjoy it warm!
This blog post shared a simple and tasty recipe for One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Soup. We explored the ingredients, including fresh veggies and herbs. I provided clear step-by-step instructions for easy cooking. You learned tips for perfecting the recipe and saw some fun variations. Remember, you can store leftovers well and reheat them easily. Enjoy making this warm and creamy soup. It’s a great dish for family meals or cozy nights. Your kitchen will smell amazing. Try it for yourself and enjoy each flavorful bite!
