Indulge in Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi for a Cozy Meal

Get ready to indulge in a delightful and creamy pasta dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi is a comforting and flavor-packed recipe that combines tender gnocchi, a rich tomato-based sauce, and the fresh, vibrant flavor of spinach. This dish is the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, making it an ideal choice for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive meal to share with family and friends.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

• 500 g gnocchi
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 5 oz baby spinach
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (plus extra for serving)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

Prepare the Gnocchi

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to the package directions, until they float to the surface. Drain the gnocchi and set them aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water in case you need to adjust the consistency of the sauce later.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly. Finally, stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1-2 minutes to develop its flavor.

Build the Creamy Tomato Sauce

Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet, and then add the dried oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer the sauce for 15-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.

Finish the Dish

Once the sauce has simmered, remove it from the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Next, add the baby spinach and stir until it’s wilted and fully incorporated into the sauce.

Finally, add the cooked gnocchi to the creamy tomato sauce, tossing gently to coat the gnocchi evenly. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if desired. Savor the combination of tender gnocchi, the rich and flavorful tomato cream sauce, and the bright, fresh spinach in every bite.

Tips for Perfecting Your Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

To ensure your Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Cook the Gnocchi Properly: Boil the gnocchi until they float to the surface, as this is the surest sign that they are cooked through. Overcooking can lead to gnocchi that are mushy or fall apart.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out and create a smooth, creamy texture.
• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preferred level of heat. Start with a small pinch and add more if you want a spicier dish.
• Experiment with Ingredients: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients to your liking, such as sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a splash of white wine to the sauce.

Variations and Additions

While the Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi is already a delicious and satisfying dish, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your tastes:

• Vegetarian and Vegan Options: To make this dish vegetarian or vegan, simply replace the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk. For the Parmesan cheese, use a vegan cheese substitute or nutritional yeast.
• Add More Veggies: Sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the onions for added flavor and nutrition.
• Enhance the Protein: For a heartier meal, you can add cooked Italian sausage, grilled chicken, or even shrimp to the dish.
• Pair it with Crusty Bread: Serve the Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi with a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
• Try Different Pasta Shapes: While gnocchi is the traditional choice, you can also use other types of pasta, such as ravioli, tortellini, or even penne or rigatoni.

Nutritional Information and Benefits

Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi is not only a comforting and delicious dish, but it also provides a range of nutritional benefits:

• Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to various health benefits, including reduced risk of certain types of cancer and heart disease.
• Spinach: Spinach is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a nutrient-dense addition to this dish. It’s a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and iron.
• Gnocchi: Gnocchi, made from potatoes, flour, and eggs, provides a good source of complex carbohydrates, which can help to fuel your body and keep you feeling satisfied.
• Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese is a good source of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, making it a nutritious addition to this dish.

When enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi can be a satisfying and nutritious meal that provides a range of health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi vegan or dairy-free?

To make Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi vegan or dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative such as coconut cream, almond milk, or cashew cream. For the Parmesan cheese, consider using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or a vegan cheese substitute. Ensure that the gnocchi you use is also vegan, as some store-bought varieties may contain egg. Finally, adjust seasonings to taste, as some plant-based creams may have different flavor profiles.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for the sauce?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for the sauce. If using fresh tomatoes, opt for a ripe variety such as Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes. You will need about 2-3 cups of diced fresh tomatoes. To enhance the flavor, you may want to blanch and peel them before dicing. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may require a longer cooking time to break down and create a sauce-like consistency compared to canned tomatoes.

What types of gnocchi work best for this recipe?

For Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi, you can use either store-bought or homemade gnocchi. Store-bought gnocchi made from potato or ricotta is convenient and works well for this dish. If you prefer homemade gnocchi, you can make it using potatoes, flour, and eggs for a more authentic taste and texture. Just ensure that the gnocchi is cooked until they float to the surface for the best results, as this indicates they are done.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi?

To adjust the spiciness of your Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi, you can modify the amount of red pepper flakes used in the recipe. If you prefer a milder dish, you can omit them entirely or use just a pinch. Conversely, if you enjoy more heat, you can add additional red pepper flakes or incorporate fresh chili peppers or hot sauce to your taste. Always remember to start with a small amount and increase gradually, as it’s easier to add more spice than to tone it down.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet
• Creamy Tuscan Sausage Gnocchi
• One-Pot Loaded Potato and Kielbasa Gnocchi
• Creamy Italian Sausage and Spinach Gnocchi Bake

Enjoy your delectable Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi and don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations and flavors to make it your own. Bon appétit!

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