The aroma of roasted tomatoes wafting through my kitchen instantly transports me to sun-soaked vineyards in Tuscany. This Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi skillet captures that essence in a single, delightful dish. Brimming with the vibrant notes of caramelized garlic and fresh basil, this vegan recipe is not just easy to whip up on a busy night; it’s also a heartwarming comfort food that everyone will gobble up joyously! Plus, it’s adaptable—feel free to throw in your favorite veggies or substitute ingredients to make it perfectly yours. Are you ready to create a cozy culinary escape at home?
Why is this gnocchi dish a must-try?
Flavorful and Comforting: The rich, creamy sauce hugs every piece of gnocchi, bringing out the sweetness of roasted tomatoes and the warmth of garlic.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in under an hour, making it a go-to choice for any home cook.
Customizable: Whether you’re a vegan or gluten-free, this recipe adapts beautifully to your dietary needs. Swap in seasonal veggies for added nutrition!
Crowd-Pleasing: The delightful aroma and vibrant colors make it a showstopper at any gathering— your family and friends will be asking for seconds!
For more heartwarming recipes, check out our Baked Potato Soup or Gyros Feta Tzatziki.
Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi Ingredients
• A delightful dish made with fresh ingredients!
For the Sauce
- Fresh Grape and/or Cherry Tomatoes – These sweetest little gems bring acidity and flavor; regular tomatoes can be swapped in if needed.
- Shallots – Offering a mild onion flavor, you can substitute with red or yellow onions in a pinch.
- Garlic – A must for enhancing flavor; in a hurry? Use garlic powder as a shortcut.
- Coarse Sea Salt – Perfect for seasoning; feel free to adjust with fine salt according to your taste.
- Cracked Black Pepper – Adds a lovely kick; ground black or white pepper works if you prefer.
- Smoked Paprika – Infuses depth and warmth; in a bind, regular paprika will do just fine.
- Cayenne Pepper – Ideal for those who like it spicy; tweak or omit based on your heat preference.
- Fresh Ginger Root – Adds a wonderful warmth; if you’re short on time, finely mince instead of grating.
- Coconut Sugar – Balances the dish’s acidity; light brown sugar is a lovely alternative.
- Fresh Thyme – Enriches the sauce with its aromatic flair; use dried thyme if fresh isn’t available.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Essential for roasting; vegetable oil can substitute if you need it.
For the Gnocchi
- Fresh Potato Gnocchi – The star of this dish! Ensure it’s vegan for compliance, and if not, feel free to use other pasta types.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens up flavors beautifully; lime juice is a perfect substitute if you prefer.
- Fresh Basil Leaves – Light and fresh garnish; dried basil can replace it but will carry less intensity.
- Coconut Cream – Offers creaminess to the dish; vegan heavy cream or homemade cashew cream can work beautifully instead.
- Optional Chili Flakes – For an added kick of heat! Omit if you’re steering clear of spice.
This creamy roasted tomato gnocchi is easy to customize to your taste, making it a fantastic option for anyone craving a comforting, home-cooked meal!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). This temperature is ideal for roasting the fresh grape and cherry tomatoes. As the oven warms up, the sweet aroma of tomatoes roasting will fill your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere for what’s to come.
Step 2: Prep Ingredients
While the oven is heating, take a moment to prepare your ingredients. Remove the stems from the tomatoes, peel the shallots and garlic, and grate fresh ginger root. This step ensures that all your ingredients are ready for easy mixing, setting the stage for a delightful Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi dish.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large cast iron skillet, combine the prepared tomatoes, shallots, garlic, coarse sea salt, cracked black pepper, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, coconut sugar, grated ginger, fresh thyme, and extra virgin olive oil. Stir well until everything is evenly coated, allowing the vibrant colors to blend beautifully as you prepare them for roasting.
Step 4: Roast the Ingredients
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and let the mixture roast for about 35 minutes. During this time, the tomatoes will burst, and their juices will mingle with the other ingredients, creating a rich, aromatic base for your Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi. Keep an eye on it, as you want them slightly caramelized.
Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi
As the vegetables roast, fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the fresh potato gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes. When they float, they’re ready—drain them and set aside, ensuring a tender, chewy texture to complement the sauce.
Step 6: Combine & Serve
After the roasting time is complete, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Smash the garlic into the mixture, release its wonderful flavor, and add in the cooked gnocchi. Pour in the rich coconut cream and fresh lemon juice, then toss everything together. Finally, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately for a comforting, delicious bowl of Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To retain freshness, avoid adding basil until ready to serve.
Freezer: Freeze the creamy roasted tomato gnocchi in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Reheating: For best results, reheat over low heat in a skillet with a splash of water or vegetable broth to restore creaminess. Stir in fresh basil just before serving for added flavor.
Avoid Sogginess: When storing, keep the sauce and gnocchi separate if possible; this helps maintain their textures when reheated.
Expert Tips for Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi
Quality Ingredients: Use the freshest tomatoes you can find for the best flavor. Soggy tomatoes can ruin your creamy roasted tomato gnocchi, so choose grape or cherry varieties for sweetness.
Prep Properly: Avoid dicing larger tomatoes too finely to prevent excess moisture. Chunky pieces roast beautifully and enhance the dish’s texture.
Creamy Consistency: Opt for a high-quality coconut cream for the richest texture; avoid low-fat versions that can dilute the creamy flavor.
Cook Time: Ensure your gnocchi are cooked just until they float; overcooking can lead to a chewy texture that detracts from your creamy roasted tomato gnocchi experience.
Leftover Storage: To keep your dish fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container without fresh basil. Add basil just before reheating for better flavor.
What to Serve with Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi
A comforting meal deserves the perfect pairings to elevate each bite and create a memorable dining experience.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, crispy edges and buttery, garlicky goodness of garlic bread are perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce, making every bite satisfying.
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Mixed Green Salad: A bright and zesty salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the creaminess of the gnocchi with vibrant flavors and textures.
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Roasted Chickpeas: These seasoned, crunchy bites offer a delightful protein boost for a heartier meal, creating a delicious contrast to the soft, tender gnocchi.
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Grilled Asparagus: The smoky char of grilled asparagus pairs beautifully with the rich sauce, adding a touch of earthiness and a pop of color to your plate.
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Lemon Basil Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon basil sorbet cleanses the palate and ties together the fresh herb flavors from the meal, making it a refreshing finale.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: A zesty sparkling water adds effervescence, cleansing the palate and keeping the meal light and refreshing while complementing the tomato flavors beautifully.
Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi Variations
Feel free to get creative with this comforting dish and make it uniquely yours—let your kitchen become a canvas of flavors!
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Pasta Swap: Use any pasta type you prefer for a different texture, like penne or farfalle. It’s a simple change that brings new opportunities for enjoyment.
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Veggie Booster: Add sautéed vegetables such as zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition and color. Feel free to toss in what’s seasonal or what you have on hand!
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Nut-Free Dairy: For a nut-free version, replace coconut cream with a homemade cashew cream made from soaked cashews blended with water. This still delivers a creamy texture without the nuts.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or parsley instead of thyme for a distinctive flavor profile. Each herb brings its charm to this dish, enhancing the overall experience.
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Smoky Flavor: If you adore smoky notes, try adding some smoked tofu or tempeh to deepen the richness of the dish. It’ll add heartiness and a lovely smokiness.
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Lemon Zest Kick: Introduce lemon zest along with the lemon juice for an extra layer of brightness. This simple addition can elevate the dish, making it even more refreshing!
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Roasted Garlic: Roast an extra bulb of garlic alongside your tomatoes for an ultra-rich and sweet flavor that mellows beautifully. Garlic lovers rejoice!
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Heat Level: Spice things up by incorporating jalapeños or other fresh chilies into the mix. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference for a dish that suits your palate perfectly.
Remember, cooking is a journey of exploration, so don’t hesitate to try our other recipes like Creamy Beef Pasta Minute or Parmesan Chicken Pasta for more inspiration. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Make Ahead Options
This Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to save time! You can roast the tomatoes and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the mixture in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. The gnocchi can be cooked ahead as well—just drain and refrigerate them, ensuring you keep them tender. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the roasted mixture in a skillet, add in the gnocchi, coconut cream, and lemon juice, stirring until heated through. This method allows you to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort whenever hunger strikes!
Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe tomatoes for this dish?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose fresh grape or cherry tomatoes that are bright in color, plump, and firm to the touch. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as these can indicate overripeness. If grape or cherry tomatoes aren’t available, you can substitute with regular tomatoes, but opt for the ripest ones and cut them into chunky pieces to retain juicy sweetness in the dish.
How should I store leftovers of the creamy roasted tomato gnocchi?
Very well! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to leave out the fresh basil until you’re ready to enjoy leftovers again, as adding it prematurely can cause wilting. When reheating, you can toss in a touch of fresh basil for that vibrant flavor boost!
Can I freeze creamy roasted tomato gnocchi?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze this dish in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To freeze, I recommend letting everything fully cool before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or vegetable broth to bring back that creamy texture.
What should I do if my gnocchi turns out chewy?
Excellent question! To prevent chewy gnocchi, make sure they’re cooked only until they float to the surface in boiling water, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Overcooking can make them tough. If you find that your gnocchi are chewy, you can revive them by simmering in a little broth until tender.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This creamy roasted tomato gnocchi dish is naturally vegan and can be gluten-free if you use appropriate gluten-free gnocchi. Always check packaging to ensure no dairy or egg is included. For those with nut allergies, you can replace coconut cream with a homemade cashew cream made from soaked and blended cashews with water, ensuring a nut-free experience without compromising on flavor.
Can I add vegetables to this gnocchi dish?
The more the merrier! Feel free to customize your creamy roasted tomato gnocchi by adding seasonal vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. If you sauté these veggies briefly before combining them with the sauce, it will elevate your dish by adding extra nutrients and flavors. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations!
Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi for a Cozy Weeknight Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC).
- Prep your ingredients by removing stems from tomatoes, peeling the shallots and garlic, and grating fresh ginger root.
- In a large cast iron skillet, combine tomatoes, shallots, garlic, sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, cayenne, coconut sugar, ginger, thyme, and olive oil. Stir until evenly coated.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for about 35 minutes until tomatoes burst and caramelize.
- Cook potato gnocchi in a large pot of salted boiling water until they float, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Remove the skillet from the oven, smash the garlic into the mixture, add gnocchi, coconut cream, and lemon juice. Toss to combine, then garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.
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