When chilly evenings call for something cozy and comforting, my mind immediately turns to this delightful Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Soup. The rich, tangy aroma of sun-dried tomatoes and warm spices fills the kitchen, instantly brightening the mood. As I’ve crafted my version of this soup, I wanted to ensure it could turn a simple weeknight into a special occasion with minimal effort.
In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s not only satisfying but also offers that gourmet touch we often crave after a long day. The gnocchi’s pillowy texture perfectly complements the hearty broth, making every ladle full a warm hug for the soul. Whether you’re vegetarian or looking to explore vegan options, this soup has you covered with a creamy finish that can be tailored just for you. Grab your spoon and let’s get cooking; this cozy delight is set to become a staple in your home!
Why is this Mouthwatering Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Soup a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This soup is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Cozy Comfort: The combination of creamy broth and tender gnocchi creates a soothing dish that warms you from the inside out.
Versatile Options: Whether you’re vegetarian or vegan, you can easily adjust the recipe with simple substitutions like cashew cream or coconut milk.
Flavor Forward: The rich, tangy flavor from sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs brings depth that elevates this soup beyond typical comfort food.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends, this soup is sure to impress everyone at your table!
For more cozy meal inspirations, check out my other easy weeknight dinners.
Mouthwatering Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Soup Ingredients
For the Base
- Avocado oil – Perfect for sautéing; olive oil works nicely as a substitute.
- Yellow onion – Provides sweetness and depth; swap with white onion if needed.
- Red bell pepper – Adds a crunchy, sweet element; green bell pepper is a great alternative for less sweetness.
- Sun-dried tomatoes – Yields a tangy flavor; ensure they’re well-drained for best results.
- Garlic – Infuses aromatic depth; fresh garlic offers optimal taste.
- Tomato paste – Enhances richness and umami; can replace with extra crushed tomatoes if required.
- Smoked paprika – For a subtle smoky punch; regular paprika serves as an easy swap.
- Fennel seeds – Introduces a mild licorice note; optional for those who prefer to omit it.
- Red pepper flakes – Adds optional heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
For the Soup
- Chickpeas – Boosts protein content; feel free to substitute with white beans for variety.
- Crushed tomatoes – Forms the soup’s hearty base; any canned variety will do.
- Vegetable broth – Key flavor component; use low-sodium chicken broth for a non-vegan option.
- Nutritional yeast – Adds a cheesy flavor; can be left out if not on hand.
- Fresh thyme – Infuses herbal freshness; dried thyme is a suitable alternative in a pinch.
For the Gnocchi
- Shelf-stable gnocchi – The main ingredient that holds up during cooking; use fresh gnocchi carefully to avoid mushiness.
- Kale – Introduces nutrition and color; spinach can substitute for a milder taste.
For Creaminess and Garnish
- Cashew cream or canned coconut milk – Adds delightful creaminess; any plant-based milk works as an alternative.
- Chopped fresh parsley – For garnish and a fresh finish; basil or cilantro can also enhance the dish.
This Mouthwatering Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Soup is the perfect canvas for cozy cooking, encouraging you to make adjustments according to your taste and pantry. Enjoy bringing this heartwarming dish to life!
How to Make Mouthwatering Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Soup
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Heat the oil: Warm a large pot over medium heat and pour in the avocado oil, letting it shimmer for a moment. This will create a flavorful base for the soup.
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Sauté the onion: Add the diced yellow onion and a pinch of salt, cooking until softened and translucent (about 5 minutes). The sweetness will enhance the soup’s depth.
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Add bell pepper and sun-dried tomatoes: Toss in the diced red bell pepper and sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing for an additional 2 minutes. The colors will begin to brighten, promising deliciousness.
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Stir in garlic: Mix in the crushed garlic and let it cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. The aroma will be irresistible, inviting everyone to the table.
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Incorporate tomato paste: Add the tomato paste, stirring it in for 2-3 minutes until caramelized. This step enriches the umami flavor, adding richness to your soup.
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Spice it up: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes, sautéing for just 1 minute to release their aromatic oils.
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Add chickpeas and broth: Fold in the rinsed chickpeas, then pour in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, and thyme. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cover for 15 minutes.
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Stir in vegan cream and gnocchi: Gently mix in your choice of cashew cream or coconut milk, then add the gnocchi, kale, and parsley. Cook until the gnocchi is tender, checking package instructions for timing.
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Taste and adjust: Before serving, give your soup a taste. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference, making it just right for your palate.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra parsley for added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Mouthwatering Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Soup?
Cozying up with a bowl of this hearty soup will warm not just your belly but your heart. Here are some delightful pairings that will transform your meal into a feast.
- Crusty Bread: This is a must-have for dipping! The bread soaks up the tangy broth, enhancing every bite.
- Simple Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts the soup’s richness.
- Garlic Toast: The rich, aromatic flavors of garlic toast pair beautifully, creating a comforting ensemble that’s hard to resist.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies brings extra nutrition and a caramelized sweetness to the table. Try zucchini, carrots, or brussels sprouts for variety!
- Cheesy Grilled Cheese: A classic companion! Gooey melted cheese nestled between crispy bread perfectly complements the creamy soup.
- Light White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc works wonders, with its acidity balancing the soup’s richness and refreshing the palate.
- Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with herbs provides a soothing base that absorbs flavor, making every meal feel gourmet.
- Chocolate Mousse: Conclude with a rich chocolate mousse for dessert, adding a touch of indulgence to your cozy night in.
With these pairings, your Mouthwatering Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Soup will shine as the star of a delightful dinner spread. Enjoy!
Expert Tips for Mouthwatering Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Soup
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Gnocchi Timing: Add gnocchi in the last 5-7 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy. This ensures a perfect texture in your soup.
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Tomato Paste Technique: Sauté the tomato paste for 1-2 minutes before adding liquids to develop rich, deep flavors that elevate the soup.
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Drain Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Make sure to thoroughly drain sun-dried tomatoes to avoid a watery soup. This will keep your broth nicely thick and flavorful.
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Leafy Greens Prep: Add kale or spinach towards the end of cooking to maintain vibrant color and texture. Overcooking can diminish their fresh appeal.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper to bring out the balance of flavors in your Mouthwatering Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Soup. This final touch makes all the difference!
Storage Tips for Mouthwatering Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Soup
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to adjust the consistency.
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Freezer: For best results, freeze the soup without gnocchi, preserving its texture; portion it into containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight or use the microwave. Reheat on the stovetop, gradually adding broth to achieve your desired creaminess.
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Serving Suggestion: If you’ve made extra, consider serving this Mouthwatering Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Soup with freshly baked bread or a simple salad for a complete meal!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing this Mouthwatering Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Soup in advance can be a game-changer for your meal planning! You can chop the vegetables (onion, bell pepper, and garlic) up to 24 hours ahead, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can mix the soup base (excluding the gnocchi) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. On the day you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup on the stove until warmed through, add the gnocchi and kale, and cook until the gnocchi is tender. This method ensures you’ll have a cozy, homemade meal on the table with minimal effort!
Mouthwatering Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Soup Variations
Feel free to customize this delicious soup to match your tastes and pantry staples!
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Protein Swap: Substitute chickpeas with lentils or white beans for a different texture while keeping that protein punch. Each alternative brings its own unique flavor!
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Greens Choice: Swap out kale for spinach or Swiss chard, adjusting the flavor profile while still packing in the nutrients. Each leafy option brings a fresh vibe to your bowl.
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Seasonal Veggies: Add in seasonal favorites like zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition and texture. These colorful additions make the soup visually stunning!
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Creamy Twist: Use cashew cream or coconut milk for creaminess, or test out almond milk for a lighter option. Every creamy variation is sure to delight your palate!
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Spice It Up: Increase the heat by adding jalapeños or serrano peppers. Adjust according to your spice tolerance to fire up the flavor!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as basil or oregano in place of thyme. A fresh herb swap can elevate your soup experience!
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Nutty Adding: Sprinkle in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch. The extra texture plays beautifully with the creamy broth.
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Cheesy Finish: For a savory kick, top with grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast to enhance that cheesy flavor. This touch adds depth and richness, rounding out the dish beautifully.
Mouthwatering Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?
Absolutely! Look for sun-dried tomatoes that are not packed in oil for a more intense flavor, but if you choose oil-packed ones, ensure they are well-drained. This prevents your soup from becoming overly oily and maintains the rich, tangy flavor essential for this recipe.
How can I store leftovers of this soup?
Very! After cooling, transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore the soup’s creamy consistency.
Can I freeze Mouthwatering Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Soup?
Definitely! For the best texture, I recommend omitting the gnocchi before freezing. Pour the soup mixture into portioned containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then heat up on the stovetop, adding the gnocchi fresh for the best results.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
No worries! If your soup turns out thicker than desired, simply stir in additional broth or water gradually until you reach your preferred consistency. Taste as you go and add a pinch of salt if needed for balance.
Is this soup suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This Mouthwatering Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Soup can easily be made vegan by using cashew cream or coconut milk in place of dairy. It’s packed with plant-based protein from the chickpeas and is entirely comforting without compromising your dietary preferences.
What can I substitute if I have an allergy to any ingredients?
Very! If you have a chickpea allergy, you can substitute them with white beans or lentils. For those sensitive to gluten, opt for gluten-free gnocchi or rice noodles. The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility, so feel free to create a version that suits your dietary needs perfectly!
Mouthwatering Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the oil: Warm a large pot over medium heat and pour in the avocado oil, letting it shimmer for a moment.
- Sauté the onion: Add the diced yellow onion and a pinch of salt, cooking until softened and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add bell pepper and sun-dried tomatoes: Toss in the diced red bell pepper and sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing for an additional 2 minutes.
- Stir in garlic: Mix in the crushed garlic and let it cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Incorporate tomato paste: Add the tomato paste, stirring it in for 2-3 minutes until caramelized.
- Spice it up: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes, sautéing for just 1 minute.
- Add chickpeas and broth: Fold in the rinsed chickpeas, then pour in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, and thyme. Bring to a gentle simmer and cover for 15 minutes.
- Stir in vegan cream and gnocchi: Mix in your choice of cashew cream or coconut milk, then add the gnocchi, kale, and parsley.
- Taste and adjust: Give your soup a taste and adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.