Tomato Gnocchi Soup

This Tomato Gnocchi Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for those chilly days when you crave something warm and comforting. With its creamy consistency and hearty ingredients, this soup stands out as a filling option that can easily be served for dinner. It’s not only great for meal prep but also freezer-friendly, making it suitable for various occasions. You can customize the richness by opting for heavy cream or keeping it dairy-free.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Comfort: The rich texture of this soup makes it incredibly satisfying and warming.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe comes together quickly.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a standalone dinner or paired with your favorite bread for dipping.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store it in the freezer for busy weeknights.
• Vegetarian Delight: A wholesome soup that even meat lovers will enjoy!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Tomato Gnocchi Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Immersion blender
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all flavors to meld beautifully.
• Immersion blender: Makes blending the soup hassle-free without transferring it to another container.
• Cutting board & Chef’s knife: Essential for efficiently chopping vegetables to get your prep done quickly.

Ingredients

This Tomato Gnocchi Soup is extra creamy, hearty, and comforting. It’s the perfect soup for cold weather, great for meal prep, and freezer-friendly! Gnocchi make this soup more filling so it can be served for dinner on its own. You can keep it dairy-free or add heavy cream to make it creamier!

For the Base

• 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

For the Soup

• 2 cans of whole Roma tomatoes (2x 28 oz cans)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves

For the Gnocchi

• 16 oz gnocchi

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 1/2-1 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 5-6 minutes until glossy and slightly golden.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic; cook for another 30 seconds until just fragrant.

Step 4: Mix in Vegetables

Add sliced carrots, celery, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Stir to mix and cook for a minute.

Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes

Add canned tomatoes including juices; break the tomatoes up using a spatula.

Step 6: Add Broth

Pour in vegetable broth; stir in bay leaves; bring the soup to a simmer. Cook partially covered for 15 minutes.

Step 7: Remove Bay Leaves

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

Step 8: Blend the Soup

Blend the soup using an immersion blender until completely smooth.

Step 9: Add Gnocchi and Cream

Bring back to a simmer; add gnocchi and heavy cream.

Step 10: Simmer

Simmer for 10 minutes while stirring occasionally to prevent gnocchi from sticking.

Step 11: Final Seasoning

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

Step 12: Serve

Serve with more grated pecorino, fresh herbs, or additional heavy cream as desired.

How to Serve Tomato Gnocchi Soup

Serving Tomato Gnocchi Soup can elevate your meal experience, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.

Pair with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Chopped fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
• Parsley: Finely chopped parsley gives a fresh taste and enhances the soup’s visual appeal.

Top with Cheese

• Pecorino Romano: Grated pecorino cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
• Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan can be sprinkled on top for an extra layer of richness.

Serve with Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A slice of warm baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread adds a savory crunch that pairs well with the smooth texture of the soup.

Add Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken can make this soup even more filling and substantial.
• Sausage: Crumbled cooked sausage mixed in provides extra flavor and heartiness.

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How to Perfect Tomato Gnocchi Soup

To make your Tomato Gnocchi Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the soup.
• Adjust Creaminess: Start with less cream; you can always add more later if you prefer a richer taste.
• Blend Thoroughly: For a smooth texture, ensure you blend the soup until fully smooth—this makes it creamier!
• Simmer Longer for Flavor: Letting it simmer longer allows the flavors to meld beautifully; just keep an eye on the gnocchi.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato Gnocchi Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Tomato Gnocchi Soup can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread complements the flavors of tomato and gnocchi wonderfully.
2. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil adds brightness and contrast.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing offers a crunchy counterpoint to the creamy soup.
4. Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, bruschetta is a delightful starter before diving into your soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide additional nutrients and a comforting warmth.
6. Cheese Toasties: A gooey cheese toastie is an indulgent pairing that makes for a cozy meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Tomato Gnocchi Soup can be straightforward, but there are some common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the sautéing step: Not cooking the onions and garlic properly can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always sauté until golden to enhance the flavors.
• Ignoring the bay leaves: Forgetting to remove bay leaves after cooking can result in a bitter taste. Remember to take them out before blending your soup.
• Overcooking the gnocchi: Cooking gnocchi for too long can make them mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking and simmer just until tender.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: Poor-quality canned tomatoes can affect the overall taste of your soup. Opt for whole Roma tomatoes for better flavor.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning before serving may leave your soup bland. Always check and add salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Tomato Gnocchi Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Tomato Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Tomato Gnocchi Soup that might help you with your cooking journey.

Can I make Tomato Gnocchi Soup dairy-free?

Yes! You can skip the heavy cream or use a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream.

How do I thicken my Tomato Gnocchi Soup?

To thicken, blend half of the soup and return it to the pot, or add a cornstarch slurry while simmering.

What can I serve with Tomato Gnocchi Soup?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh salad.

How long does it take to cook Tomato Gnocchi Soup?

The total time is about 40 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This Tomato Gnocchi Soup is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it by adding fresh herbs or different vegetables based on what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate—try this comforting recipe today!