Looking for a comforting meal that’s easy to make? You’ve come to the right place! My One-Pot Tomato Basil Gnocchi Soup is hearty, delicious, and comes together in just one pot. With simple ingredients and a few quick steps, this dish warms your soul and fills your belly. Let’s dive into the world of cozy cooking—your new favorite soup recipe awaits!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for One-Pot Tomato Basil Gnocchi Soup
To make this warm and tasty soup, you need some basic items:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a vegan option)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
These ingredients come together to create a rich and hearty soup. The crushed tomatoes give it a nice base. The gnocchi adds a soft, chewy texture that kids and adults enjoy.
Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor
While the soup is great as is, you can add some extra touches:
– Grated Parmesan cheese for a savory kick
– A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
– Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for more aroma
These items can enhance the taste and make the soup even better. They bring out the flavors and add a gourmet feel.
Ingredient Substitutes for Dietary Restrictions
You can easily adjust this soup for different diets:
– Use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian or vegan.
– Swap heavy cream for coconut milk to make it dairy-free.
– Use gluten-free gnocchi for a gluten-free option.
These substitutes keep the soup delicious while meeting your needs. You can enjoy it without worry!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps for the Soup
Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Next, chop the onion and mince the garlic. Make sure to have everything ready. This will make cooking easier.
Cooking Process for One-Pot Gnocchi Soup
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for another 1-2 minutes until it smells great.
Now, pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add the oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Bring this mix to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This lets all the flavors blend nicely.
After simmering, add the gnocchi. Cook them according to the package instructions. Usually, they take about 3-5 minutes to float to the top. This means they are done!
Once the gnocchi is ready, stir in the chopped spinach. Cook until it wilts, which takes just a minute or two. Finally, pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to your taste.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas
Serve the soup hot in bowls. Garnish each bowl with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. You could also add a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. For a complete meal, pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Enjoy this hearty and simple dish!
Tips & Tricks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making One-Pot Tomato Basil Gnocchi Soup, beginners often make a few mistakes. Here are some to watch for:
– Overcooking the gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks fast. If you let it sit too long, it can become mushy.
– Not seasoning enough: Taste your soup as you go. Add salt and pepper for more flavor.
– Skipping the onion and garlic: These add depth. Don’t skip this step; they are key.
How to Enhance the Flavor of the Soup
To make your soup shine, try these tips:
– Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil gives a bright taste. Add some at the end for a boost.
– Add a splash of lemon juice: It brightens the flavors and adds a nice zing.
– Incorporate cheese: Grated Parmesan stirred in adds richness. Just melt it in before serving.
Recommended Cooking Tools and Equipment
Having the right tools makes cooking easier. Here’s what I recommend:
– Large pot: A sturdy pot holds everything well and allows for even cooking.
– Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot.
– Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements help you get it right.
– Ladle: Perfect for serving up that warm soup.
Variations
Vegan and Dairy-Free Modifications
To make this soup vegan, swap heavy cream for coconut milk. The coconut milk gives a nice, creamy texture. It also adds a hint of sweetness. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it plant-based. You can also add more veggies, like carrots or bell peppers, for extra nutrition.
Adding Proteins for a Hearty Meal
If you want a heartier soup, add proteins like beans or lentils. Chickpeas work well and add good fiber. Cook them in the soup for the last few minutes. You can also add shredded chicken or sausage for meat lovers. Just make sure to cook them ahead of time before adding them to the pot.
Creative Twist on Gnocchi Soup Using Seasonal Ingredients
Seasonal ingredients can change the soup’s flavor. In spring, add asparagus or peas for freshness. In fall, consider using pumpkin or squash for a warm taste. You can also mix in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. This keeps the soup exciting and new, no matter the season.
Storage Info
How to Properly Store Leftover Soup
After you finish your One-Pot Tomato Basil Gnocchi Soup, let it cool. This helps keep the taste fresh. Use an airtight container to store the soup. Place it in the fridge if you’ll eat it in a few days. The soup stays good for about three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great choice.
Freezing Techniques for One-Pot Tomato Basil Gnocchi Soup
To freeze, first cool the soup down completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe bags. Make sure to remove as much air as you can. This keeps the soup from getting freezer burn. Label the bags with the date. The soup can stay in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember, the gnocchi may change texture after freezing.
Reheating Tips for Best Quality
When you are ready to eat the soup again, take it out of the fridge or freezer. If it’s frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. To reheat, pour the soup in a pot over medium heat. Stir it often to avoid sticking. If the soup is too thick, add a little broth or water. Heat until it is warm, and enjoy!
FAQs
How long does it take to cook gnocchi in the soup?
Cooking gnocchi in the soup takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Once you add the gnocchi, they will float when ready. This shows they are cooked. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Overcooked gnocchi can become mushy, which is not tasty.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! If you prefer fresh, use about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Chop them up and add them to the pot. The taste will be bright and fresh. Just remember, you may need to cook them a bit longer to break down.
What other types of broth can I use in this recipe?
You can use different broths in this recipe. Chicken broth or mushroom broth are great options. Each will give the soup a unique flavor. If you want a richer taste, use homemade broth. Just make sure your broth fits any dietary needs you have.
This blog post covered everything you need for a tasty one-pot tomato basil gnocchi soup. We discussed essential and optional ingredients, preparation steps, cooking methods, and tips to enhance flavor. You learned how to store leftovers and even some fun variations.
Remember, cooking is about creativity. Feel free to add your twist to this soup. Enjoy making it and share the joy with others!
