Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi is a delightful, comforting dish that brings together soft gnocchi, rich tomato sauce, and vibrant spinach. This meal is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings. With its creamy texture and bold flavors, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor – The combination of crushed tomatoes, garlic, and cream creates an irresistible sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Nutrient-Packed – Fresh spinach adds not only a pop of color but also a boost of vitamins and minerals.
• Versatile – Perfect as a main course or side dish, this recipe can easily be adapted to include additional vegetables or proteins.
• Comfort Food – The soft gnocchi combined with a creamy sauce makes for a heartwarming meal that feels indulgent.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the cooking process seamless and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the gnocchi evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for sautéing aromatics and simmering the sauce to perfection.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

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Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

• Gnocchi: (500g package)

For the Sauce

• Olive Oil: (2 tablespoons)
• Onion: (1 medium, chopped)
• Garlic: (3 cloves, minced)
• Crushed Tomatoes: (1 can, 28oz)
• Tomato Paste: (2 tablespoons)
• Heavy Cream: (1 cup)
• Fresh Spinach: (5 oz, baby spinach)
• Parmesan Cheese: (1/2 cup, grated, plus extra for serving)

Seasonings

• Dried Oregano: (1 teaspoon)
• Dried Basil: (1 teaspoon)
• Salt: (to taste)
• Black Pepper: (to taste)
• Red Pepper Flakes: (optional, pinch)

How to Make Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. While the water heats up, start on the sauce. Once boiling:
1. Add the gnocchi according to package directions.
2. Cook until they float to the surface; this usually takes just a few minutes.
3. Drain the cooked gnocchi and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

While the gnocchi cooks:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion; cook until softened and translucent (about 5-7 minutes), stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Add minced garlic to the skillet:
1. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Stir in tomato paste; cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly.

Step 4: Build the Tomato Sauce

Pour in crushed tomatoes:
1. Stir to combine with onion-garlic mixture.
2. Add dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
3. Bring sauce to simmer; reduce heat to low and cover for at least 15-30 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cream and Parmesan

Remove skillet from heat:
1. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
2. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Incorporate Spinach

Add fresh spinach into the creamy tomato sauce:
1. Stir until wilted—this should take only a minute or two.

Step 7: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Gently add cooked gnocchi into the sauce:
1. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly with sauce.
2. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Serve your Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi immediately:
1. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley as desired.

Enjoy your homemade Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi!

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

Serving Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile, allowing for various accompaniments and garnishes that enhance its flavor and presentation.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Chopped fresh basil adds a fragrant touch and enhances the Italian flavors.
• Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the dish with color and freshness.

Pair with a Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens dressed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar complements the richness of the gnocchi.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing pairs well with the tomato sauce, adding a crunchy texture.

Add Extra Cheese

• Feta or Goat Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese on top provides a tangy contrast to the creaminess of the sauce.
• Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella adds a delightful stretchiness and mild flavor when melted on top.

How to Perfect Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

To make sure your Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi turns out perfectly, follow these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Cook the Gnocchi Properly: Ensure you boil gnocchi until they float, indicating they’re ready. Overcooking can make them mushy.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and high-quality crushed tomatoes to give your sauce a vibrant taste.
• Simmer for Flavor: Allow the sauce to simmer longer for deeper flavors. This step melds all ingredients beautifully.
• Adjust Consistency Wisely: If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust seasoning to ensure every bite is delicious.
• Serve Immediately: For best results, serve the dish hot right after combining the gnocchi and sauce to maintain optimal texture.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

Complementing your Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a perfect way to soak up extra sauce while adding crunch.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy contrast and add color to your plate.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and balances the richness of the gnocchi.
4. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is refreshing alongside the creamy dish.
5. Bruschetta: Topped with tomatoes and herbs, bruschetta brings brightness that enhances the meal’s flavors.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles as a light side that complements the main dish without overwhelming it.
7. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables offers variety and interest alongside your creamy main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi can be delightful, but certain mistakes may hinder your cooking experience. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the Salting Step: Neglecting to salt the water when cooking gnocchi can result in bland flavor. Always add a generous amount of salt to enhance the overall taste.

• Overcooking Gnocchi: Cooking gnocchi for too long can make them mushy. Remember, they are done when they float to the surface; this usually takes just a few minutes.

• Burning Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter if cooked at high heat. Sauté it on medium heat and keep an eye on it for perfect flavor.

• Rushing the Simmering Process: Not allowing the sauce to simmer can prevent flavors from developing fully. Take your time—simmer for at least 15 minutes to deepen the taste.

• Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: Poor-quality crushed tomatoes can lead to a lackluster sauce. Opt for high-quality tomatoes for a rich and flavorful base.

• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning before serving can leave your dish flat. Always taste your sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals (1–2 minutes) until hot.

• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi:

Can I use frozen spinach in Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi?

Yes, frozen spinach is a great alternative! Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out excess water before adding it to your sauce.

How do I make my Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or any plant-based cream alternative for a dairy-free version without losing too much flavor.

What type of gnocchi should I use?

For best results, choose shelf-stable potato gnocchi available in most supermarkets. Fresh gnocchi works too, but cooking times will vary.

How long does Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi last?

In the refrigerator, it lasts up to 3 days if stored properly in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi is not only comforting but also versatile and easy to customize based on your preferences. You can add different vegetables, swap out herbs, or even mix in some proteins like chicken or turkey. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its creamy richness paired with tender gnocchi!