Craving a warm, creamy bowl of comfort? My One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Soup is your answer! This hearty dish combines fresh spinach, savory herbs, and soft gnocchi in a rich broth. It’s simple to make and perfect for busy weeknights. Let me guide you step-by-step to create this delightful soup that will impress your family and friends. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this recipe!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 pound gnocchi (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a lighter option)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Gather these ingredients to create a delicious and creamy soup. Each item plays a key role in building flavor and texture.
– Olive oil adds healthy fat and richness.
– Onion and garlic form the base. They provide a sweet and savory taste.
– Vegetable broth serves as the soup’s heart. It adds depth and warmth.
– Diced tomatoes offer bright acidity and color. They balance the creaminess.
– Dried oregano and basil bring herbal notes. They add traditional Italian flavor.
– Gnocchi makes the soup hearty and comforting. Fresh or frozen works great.
– Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition. It wilts nicely into the soup.
– Heavy cream or coconut cream gives the soup its creaminess. Choose what you prefer.
– Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Adjust to your taste.
– Grated Parmesan cheese is optional. It adds a rich, salty finish.
– Fresh basil leaves are for garnish. They make the dish look and taste fresh.
With these ingredients, you can create a warm and satisfying bowl of soup. Each bite will transport you to Tuscany!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Heat olive oil and sauté onion
In a large pot, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion. Sauté for about five minutes until the onion is soft and clear.
– Add garlic and cook until fragrant
Next, stir in three minced garlic cloves. Cook for one to two minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen and make you hungry.
– Pour in broth and add tomatoes with spices
Now, pour in four cups of vegetable broth. Add one can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Sprinkle in one teaspoon of dried oregano and one teaspoon of dried basil. Bring this mixture to a simmer.
Gnocchi Cooking Process
– Add gnocchi and cook per package instructions
Once your soup simmers, add one pound of gnocchi. If you use fresh gnocchi, cook for two to three minutes. For frozen gnocchi, aim for five to seven minutes until they are tender.
– Reduce heat and stir in spinach and cream
When the gnocchi is ready, lower the heat. Stir in two cups of fresh spinach and one cup of heavy cream. Mix until the spinach wilts and the soup turns creamy.
Final Touches
– Season with salt, pepper, and optional Parmesan
Add salt and pepper to taste. For an extra creamy flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top if you like.
– Let soup sit before serving
Remove the pot from heat. Let the soup sit for a few minutes. This helps the flavors meld together.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
– Selecting high-quality gnocchi: Choose fresh gnocchi if you can. They taste better and cook faster. Frozen gnocchi works too, but check the package for cooking times.
– Adjusting seasoning to taste: After adding the cream, taste the soup. You might need more salt or pepper. Fresh herbs can brighten the flavor.
– Ensuring creaminess without curdling: Add cream at low heat. Stir gently to mix it in. This keeps the soup smooth and creamy without lumps.
Serving Suggestions
– Presentation tips for a beautiful bowl: Use deep bowls to showcase the soup. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top.
– Pairing with crusty bread or side salads: A slice of warm, crusty bread completes the meal. A simple side salad adds freshness and crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Overcooking the gnocchi: Watch the time closely. Overcooked gnocchi become mushy. They should float and be tender.
– Ignoring the simmering process: Let the soup simmer for the best flavor. This step melds all the tastes together. Don’t rush it.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily change this recipe by swapping ingredients.
– Using different types of broth: While vegetable broth works great, chicken broth adds a rich flavor. You can also use beef broth for a heartier taste.
– Substituting greens or protein options: If you want a twist, try kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach. For protein, add cooked chicken or sausage for a filling meal.
Dietary Adjustments
Making this soup fit your diet is simple.
– Making it vegan-friendly: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Replace the broth with vegetable broth and skip the cheese.
– Adjustments for gluten-free options: Choose gluten-free gnocchi for the base. Check that your broth and any added ingredients are gluten-free too.
Flavor Enhancements
You can boost the flavor of this soup in many ways.
– Adding different herbs or spices: Try rosemary or thyme for a different taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
– Incorporating vegetables for added nutrition: Carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini can add color and nutrients. Just chop them and add during the broth stage.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftover soup, let it cool first. Then, pour it into an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Stir often to ensure even heating.
Freezing Instructions
For freezing soup, use a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. This soup freezes well and can last up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, this soup stays fresh for about three days. Look for signs of spoilage, like an off smell or mold. If you see any, it is best to discard the soup. Remember, fresh food is always the tastiest!
FAQs
What is the ideal consistency for creamy soup?
The ideal consistency for creamy soup is thick yet smooth. It should coat the back of a spoon. If it flows too quickly off the spoon, it may be too thin. You want a nice balance, where it feels rich but not overly heavy.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh. Just make sure to thaw it first and squeeze out excess water. This helps keep the soup from getting too watery. Frozen spinach is a great option for convenience and still adds good flavor.
How can I thicken my soup if it’s too watery?
If your soup is too watery, there are a few tricks. You can add more gnocchi, as they will soak up extra liquid. Another option is to mix in a slurry of cornstarch and water. Just stir it in and let the soup simmer until it thickens.
What other toppings can I use besides Parmesan cheese?
Besides Parmesan cheese, you can try croutons for crunch or a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives also add great flavor. You could even sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
This creamy gnocchi soup is simple and full of flavor. We covered each ingredient, from olive oil to fresh basil. You learned the steps to make it delicious, like sautéing the onion and adding gnocchi. Tips on perfecting the recipe, serving, and avoiding common mistakes were also included.
In the end, this soup is easy to customize. Try different broths or add new greens. With the right care, you can store leftovers well too. Enjoy making this dish your own!
