Ingredients
Gnocchi
- 18 oz (500 g) gnocchi, or another short pasta shape
Sauce
- ½ red onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pinch red pepper or chili flakes, or to taste
- 2 tsp mixed Italian seasoning
- ⅓ cup (140 g) sundried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (puree)
- ⅔ cup (160 ml) vegetable broth
- ⅔ cup (160 ml) heavy (double) cream
- ¾ cup (80 g) parmesan style cheese, grated
- 1 small bunch basil, chopped
- 1-2 handfuls baby spinach, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning; cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Sundried Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Stir in the chopped sundried tomatoes and tomato paste, cooking for 2 minutes to meld the flavors and slightly caramelize the tomato paste.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 3-4 minutes to concentrate the flavors.
- Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan style cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Add Greens: Toss in the chopped baby spinach and chopped basil, cooking until the spinach wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
- Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi into the sauce, gently tossing to coat each piece evenly with the creamy sundried tomato sauce. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Transfer to plates or a serving dish and garnish with extra basil or parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use oil-packed sundried tomatoes for a richer flavor, or rehydrate dry sundried tomatoes in warm water before chopping.
- You can substitute heavy cream with a lower-fat cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili flakes based on your preference.
- Gnocchi can be replaced with other short pasta such as penne or rigatoni if preferred.
- For gluten-free option, be sure to use gluten-free gnocchi.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian