This Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make) is the ultimate weeknight dinner option that combines rich flavors with minimal effort. You’ll love how simple ingredients transform into a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to impressive gatherings. This recipe highlights vibrant roasted tomatoes and creamy coconut, making it a standout choice for both plant-based eaters and anyone looking to try something new and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this dish in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The roasting process intensifies the flavors of the tomatoes and garlic, creating a rich sauce.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or side dish, this gnocchi works for any meal.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and coconut cream, it’s nutritious without sacrificing taste.
- Vegan-Friendly: Completely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and those with dietary restrictions.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet (or oven-proof dish)
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Pot for boiling water
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet: Retains heat well, ensuring even cooking when roasting vegetables.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Essential for mixing ingredients thoroughly without damaging your cookware.
- Pot for boiling water: A must-have for cooking gnocchi perfectly until they float to the top.
Ingredients
Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need for this Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make):
Fresh Produce
- 18 oz fresh grape and/or cherry tomatoes (stems removed)
- 2 medium shallots (thinly sliced)
- 10 cloves garlic (peeled)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger root (grated)
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme (or to taste, stems removed)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed (or to taste)
Seasonings
- 3/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
Sweeteners & Oils
- 1 1/2 teaspoon coconut sugar (or light brown sugar)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
- 5 tablespoons coconut cream (full fat)
Gnocchi & Citrus
- 18 oz fresh potato gnocchi (egg- and dairy-free)
- 1 small lemon, juice only
How to Make Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375ºF/190ºC.
Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
Prepare all vegetables:
1. Remove stems from the tomatoes.
2. Peel garlic cloves.
3. Peel and slice shallots thinly.
4. Grate ginger.
5. Remove stems from thyme; chop if dry.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients in Skillet
In a cast iron skillet or another oven-proof dish:
– Add all prepped vegetables along with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, coconut sugar, grated ginger, thyme, and olive oil.
– Mix well using a spatula or wooden spoon until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Roast the Vegetables
Place the skillet in your preheated oven on a wire rack slightly above the middle. Roast for about 35 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi
While the tomatoes roast:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add gnocchi and cook until they rise to the top (about 2-3 minutes), or follow package instructions.
3. Drain gnocchi and set aside.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Add cooked gnocchi, coconut cream, lemon juice, and fresh basil leaves into the skillet. Stir gently to combine.
Step 7: Serve
Add any optional toppings like chili flakes or more cracked pepper before serving immediately in bowls. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi!
How to Serve Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make)
Serving your Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi is all about enhancing its rich flavors and delightful textures. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate this dish into a memorable meal.
Fresh Basil Garnish
- Add a handful of fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and an aromatic touch.
Lemon Zest
- Grate some lemon zest over the dish just before serving to brighten the flavors.
Chili Flakes
- Sprinkle chili flakes for an added kick if you enjoy spicy dishes.
Vegan Parmesan
- Serve with vegan parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Side Salad
- Pair with a light side salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette for freshness and crunch.
Crusty Bread
- Offer slices of crusty bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce.
How to Perfect Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make)
Perfecting your Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi takes just a few simple steps. Follow these tips for the best results!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh tomatoes and herbs to enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish.
- Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Cook gnocchi just until they float to keep them tender; overcooking can make them mushy.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference for a personalized flavor.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like oregano or parsley if you want to change things up.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make)
Complementing your Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi with the right side dishes can make your meal even more delightful. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered with garlic and olive oil is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and balances the richness of the gnocchi.
- Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes offers a crisp contrast.
- Roasted Asparagus: Oven-roasted asparagus drizzled with lemon complements the flavors beautifully.
- Grilled Zucchini: Slices of zucchini grilled until tender add a smoky flavor that pairs well with what you’ve made.
- Quinoa Salad: A chilled quinoa salad with veggies provides a hearty but healthy option alongside your main dish.
- Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach with garlic is simple yet delicious, adding color and nutrients.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using stale or overripe tomatoes can lead to a less flavorful dish. Always choose fresh grape or cherry tomatoes for the best taste.
Overcooking the gnocchi: Cooking gnocchi for too long can make them mushy. Remember, they only need 2-3 minutes in boiling water until they float.
Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season your vegetables properly can result in bland flavors. Don’t skip salt and pepper; taste as you go!
Not preheating the oven: If you skip preheating, your roasted tomatoes won’t caramelize properly. Always start with a hot oven for optimal roasting.
Forgetting to adjust flavors: Each ingredient can vary in strength, especially spices. Taste the mixture before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make)
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a pan, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish:
Can I make Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the roasted tomato mixture and store it separately from the gnocchi. Combine them just before serving.
What type of gnocchi should I use?
For a vegan option, ensure you’re using egg- and dairy-free gnocchi. Fresh potato gnocchi is ideal for this recipe.
How can I customize Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi?
Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or incorporate different herbs such as parsley or oregano based on your taste.
Is Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi gluten-free?
Check the gnocchi packaging; many brands offer gluten-free options made from alternative flours.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi is not only easy to make but also offers incredible versatility. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for extra flavor. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting and delicious!
Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make)
Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make) is a delightful weeknight dinner that effortlessly combines comfort with vibrant flavors. This dish features fresh, roasted tomatoes and creamy coconut, creating a rich sauce that pairs perfectly with tender gnocchi. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, it’s perfect for casual family meals or more elegant gatherings. Whether you’re vegan or simply looking to enjoy a delicious plant-based meal, this recipe promises satisfaction for all.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients
- 18 oz fresh grape or cherry tomatoes
- 2 medium shallots
- 10 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 18 oz fresh potato gnocchi
- 5 tablespoons coconut cream
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoon coconut sugar
- 1 small lemon, juice only
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC).
- Prepare the vegetables: remove stems from tomatoes, slice shallots, peel garlic, and grate ginger.
- In a cast iron skillet, mix tomatoes, shallots, garlic, ginger, thyme, olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and coconut sugar until well combined.
- Roast in the oven for about 35 minutes.
- Meanwhile, boil salted water and cook gnocchi until they float (about 2-3 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Combine roasted vegetables with cooked gnocchi, coconut cream, lemon juice, and basil in the skillet.
- Serve immediately with optional garnishes like fresh basil or chili flakes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
