Welcome to your new favorite meal! This One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Soup is easy and full of flavor. You’ll love how quick it is to make and how rich it tastes. In this post, I’ll share simple steps, ingredient swaps, and tips to make cooking stress-free. So grab your pot, and let’s whip up this cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
To make One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, including juices
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 pound gnocchi (choose fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a lighter alternative)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need to swap some ingredients, here are a few ideas:
– Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for a meatier flavor.
– Any canned tomatoes work, including crushed or whole.
– Try using almond milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter soup.
– You can use kale instead of spinach if you prefer.
– For a gluten-free option, choose gluten-free gnocchi.
Nutritional Information per Serving
Each serving of this creamy soup offers a hearty meal. Here’s a rough idea of the nutrition:
– Calories: 350
– Total Fat: 20g
– Saturated Fat: 10g
– Cholesterol: 40mg
– Sodium: 600mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 35g
– Dietary Fiber: 3g
– Sugars: 4g
– Protein: 8g
This soup is filling and packed with flavor! It’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Enjoy it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Start by gathering your ingredients. You will need olive oil, diced onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, gnocchi, fresh spinach, heavy cream, salt, pepper, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil for garnish.
2. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. This will add great flavor to your soup.
3. Measure out the vegetable broth and tomatoes. This makes cooking easier and faster.
Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes. You want the onion to be soft and see-through.
3. Next, add the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until you smell its lovely aroma.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth. Then, add the diced tomatoes with their juices, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir it all together and bring the mix to a gentle simmer.
5. Once it simmers, add 1 pound of gnocchi. If using fresh gnocchi, cook for 2-3 minutes. For frozen gnocchi, it will take 5-7 minutes. Stir this occasionally to help it cook evenly.
6. When the gnocchi float to the top, turn the heat to low. Add 2 cups of fresh spinach and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir gently until the spinach wilts and the soup turns creamy.
7. Taste and season your soup with salt and fresh black pepper. If you like, stir in grated Parmesan cheese until it melts.
Final Touches
1. Remove the pot from the heat. Let the soup rest for a few minutes. This helps the flavors blend better.
2. Serve the soup in warm bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you wish.
3. Enjoy this warm, comforting soup with crusty bread on the side for the best experience!
Tips & Tricks
Best Cooking Practices
To make the best One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Soup, start with fresh ingredients. Fresh spinach adds a nice touch. Use good quality vegetable broth for deeper flavor. Always sauté the onion until soft; this builds a great base. When you add garlic, remember to stir it often. We want it fragrant, not burnt.
For the gnocchi, check the package for cooking times. Fresh gnocchi cooks fast, usually in just 2-3 minutes. Frozen gnocchi takes longer, around 5-7 minutes. Stir them gently to avoid sticking.
Lastly, let the soup rest a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors blend nicely.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers, let the soup cool first. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Just make sure to leave out the cream before freezing. Cream can separate when thawed.
To use frozen soup, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your soup in warm bowls to keep it cozy. Top it with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds rich flavor.
Pair the soup with crusty bread for a complete meal. You could also serve it with a light salad for a refreshing balance. Enjoy every bite of this creamy delight!
Variations
Dairy-Free Alternatives
To make this soup dairy-free, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream. This change keeps the soup rich and creamy while adding a hint of sweetness. You can also use almond milk or cashew cream for a lighter touch. Both options work well and taste great. Just keep the ratios the same; about one cup will do.
Add-Ins and Enhancements
Add more veggies for extra flavor and nutrition. Try adding diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. These can cook along with the onion and garlic. For protein, add cooked chicken or white beans. Both options make the soup heartier. If you want more texture, toss in some mushrooms. They add a nice umami flavor.
Spice Level Adjustments
Want a kick? Add red pepper flakes for heat. Start with a pinch and taste as you go. If you like it spicy, add more. You can also use a dash of hot sauce to spice things up. If you prefer a milder flavor, skip the spices or add a touch of honey for balance. This will make the soup sweet and savory.
Storage Info
How to Store Soup
To keep your One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Soup fresh, let it cool first. Once it cools, pour it into an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This helps you track freshness.
Reheating Guidance
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, you can reheat it on the stove. Pour the soup into a pot and warm it over low heat. Stir it often to make sure it heats evenly. You can also use a microwave. Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Always check the temperature before serving.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some soup for later, freezing is a great option. First, cool the soup completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion. You can freeze the soup for up to 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi in this recipe. Frozen gnocchi cooks well in the soup. Just add it directly to the pot. Follow the package instructions for cooking. It usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes for frozen gnocchi to become tender. This option is great if you want to save time.
How to make it spicier?
To add heat, try these simple tips:
– Add red pepper flakes: Start with 1/2 teaspoon and adjust to taste.
– Use spicy sausage: Cook it with the onions for added flavor.
– Chili oil: Drizzle some on top before serving for extra kick.
These ideas will give your soup a nice spicy touch while keeping the creamy flavor.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options:
– Crusty bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the soup.
– Salad: A fresh green salad adds a nice crunch.
– Garlic bread: Adds a lovely flavor and texture.
These sides make the meal feel more complete and delicious!
In this post, we explored the essential ingredients for your soup, including substitutions and nutrition. We shared simple steps to prepare, cook, and finish your dish. I offered tips on storage and serving to enhance your experience. We also looked at variations to cater to different diets and preferences.
Remember, cooking should be fun and creative. With these insights, you can make a delicious soup tailored to your taste. Enjoy your cooking journey!
