Tomato Gnocchi Soup

This Tomato Gnocchi Soup is a delightful blend of creamy textures and rich flavors that makes it an ideal dish for cozy evenings. Perfect for meal prep, this soup can be made in batches and stored in the freezer, ensuring you always have a comforting meal on hand. The gnocchi not only add heartiness but also transform this soup into a satisfying dinner option. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight meal or serve it at a gathering, this recipe shines with its comforting qualities.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Comfort: The addition of heavy cream makes this soup luxuriously smooth, perfect for chilly nights.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in just 40 minutes.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the creaminess to suit your taste.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers in the freezer for easy reheating later.
• Filling Meal: The gnocchi make this soup hearty enough to be served as a stand-alone dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Tomato Gnocchi Soup, having the right tools will enhance your cooking experience. Below are some essential tools you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Immersion blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and prevents spills while simmering the soup.
• Immersion blender: This handy tool lets you blend the soup directly in the pot, saving time on cleanup.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your soup.

Ingredients

For this comforting Tomato Gnocchi Soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 tbsp avocado oil (or other cooking oil)
• ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion (1 small onion)
• ½ tsp fine sea salt
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sliced carrots
• ½ cup sliced celery
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 cans of whole Roma tomatoes (2x 28 oz cans)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 16 oz gnocchi
• ½ -1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp cane sugar
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup grated pecorino (plus more for serving)
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to Make Tomato Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat avocado oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

Add chopped yellow onion and sea salt. Cook for about 5–6 minutes until glossy and slightly golden.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Mix Vegetables

Add sliced carrots, celery, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Stir well and cook for one minute.

Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes

Add canned tomatoes along with their juices. Break them up using a spatula.

Step 6: Add Broth

Pour in vegetable broth, stir in bay leaves, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes partially covered.

Step 7: Remove Bay Leaves

Take out the bay leaves but keep them aside to put back later if needed.

Step 8: Blend the Soup

Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until completely smooth.

Step 9: Simmer with Gnocchi

Bring the blended soup back to a simmer. Add gnocchi and heavy cream.

Step 10: Cook Thoroughly

Simmer for an additional ten minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking at the bottom.

Step 11: Final Touches

Remove from heat and stir in cane sugar, balsamic vinegar, grated pecorino cheese, and black pepper.

Step 12: Serve

Serve hot with more grated pecorino on top or fresh herbs for added flavor.

How to Serve Tomato Gnocchi Soup

Serving Tomato Gnocchi Soup can enhance its comforting nature and create a delightful dining experience. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch that complements the soup’s richness.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Chopped fresh basil or parsley brings brightness and a pop of color to your bowl.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle chili flakes on top for an extra kick.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing pairs well with the soup.
• Mixed Green Salad: Lightly dressed mixed greens provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty gnocchi.

How to Perfect Tomato Gnocchi Soup

To make sure your Tomato Gnocchi Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor and quality of your soup.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or blend more thoroughly. For a thinner consistency, add additional broth.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup during cooking to adjust seasoning before serving.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking can help flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato Gnocchi Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Tomato Gnocchi Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing complement.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a savory touch that balances the creaminess of the soup.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide a hearty and healthy side option.
4. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Soft biscuits with cheesy goodness are perfect for scooping up the rich gnocchi soup.
5. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy dip served with tortilla chips or pita bread adds an indulgent touch to your meal.
6. Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with herbs offers a flavorful side that pairs well with the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tomato Gnocchi Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the sauté step: Not cooking the onions and garlic properly can lead to a bland soup. Always sauté until glossy and fragrant.
• Using unseasoned broth: If your vegetable broth lacks flavor, it can make the soup taste flat. Opt for a high-quality or well-seasoned broth for the best taste.
• Not blending enough: Leaving chunks in the soup can affect its creamy texture. Blend until completely smooth for that perfect consistency.
• Overcooking gnocchi: Gnocchi can become mushy if overcooked. Add them towards the end of cooking and simmer just until tender.
• Ignoring balance: Failing to add sugar or vinegar can lead to an unbalanced flavor profile. These ingredients help enhance the natural sweetness of tomatoes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Tomato Gnocchi Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Tomato Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish, covered with foil, until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, stirring halfway through for even warming.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Tomato Gnocchi Soup that may help you perfect your recipe!

Can I make Tomato Gnocchi Soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this soup a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I make Tomato Gnocchi Soup dairy-free?

Simply omit heavy cream and use plant-based alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream for a creamy texture without dairy.

What other vegetables can I add to Tomato Gnocchi Soup?

Feel free to include spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor!

Can I use homemade gnocchi in this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi adds a personal touch and can enhance the overall flavor of your soup.

Is Tomato Gnocchi Soup suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This soup is great for meal prep as it stores well and tastes even better after sitting overnight.

Final Thoughts

This Tomato Gnocchi Soup is not only comforting but also versatile, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner. You can customize it with different vegetables or protein sources as desired. Whether you keep it creamy or opt for a lighter version, this recipe will surely delight your taste buds!