Name: Sundried Tomato Marry Gnocchi: 7 Reasons to Love This Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 package gnocchi (substitute with any short pasta shape if desired); 1 medium red onion (can be replaced with shallots for a milder flavor); 2 cloves garlic (fresh is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch); 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust quantity to taste); 1 teaspoon mixed Italian seasoning (individual herbs like oregano or basil can also be used); 1 cup sundried tomatoes (jarred or dry varieties work; soak dried tomatoes in water first); 2 tablespoons tomato paste (substitute with pureed fresh tomatoes for a lighter option); 1 cup vegetable broth (chicken broth can be used for added flavor); 1 cup heavy cream (swap with coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative); ½ cup Parmesan-style cheese (nutritional yeast can be substituted for a vegan version); 2 cups baby spinach (kale or Swiss chard can be used instead); 1 handful fresh basil (can be omitted or substituted with parsley)

Sundried Tomato Marry Gnocchi is more than just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that transforms your weeknight dinners into something special. This creamy, hearty vegetarian dish is perfect for those busy evenings when you need comfort food that won’t take hours to prepare. With vibrant flavors and a luscious sauce, it’s a recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Sundried Tomato Marry Gnocchi

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish. Thanks to the sundried tomatoes, you’ll enjoy a burst of flavor that elevates the dish. The creamy sauce perfectly complements the gnocchi, creating a comforting texture that’s hard to resist. It’s versatile, allowing you to include ingredients like spinach or swap for different pastas. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for meatless meals. Lastly, this dish makes for excellent leftovers, ensuring you can savor it again the next day!

Sundried Tomato Marry Gnocchi: 7 Reasons to Love This Dish - Sundried Tomato Marry Gnocchi - main visual representation

Ingredients for Sundried Tomato Marry Gnocchi

Gather these items:

1 package gnocchi (substitute with any short pasta shape if desired)
1 medium red onion (can be replaced with shallots for a milder flavor)
2 cloves garlic (fresh is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch)
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust quantity to taste)
1 teaspoon mixed Italian seasoning (individual herbs like oregano or basil can also be used)
1 cup sundried tomatoes (jarred or dry varieties work; soak dried tomatoes in water first)
2 tablespoons tomato paste (substitute with pureed fresh tomatoes for a lighter option)
1 cup vegetable broth (chicken broth can be used for added flavor)
1 cup heavy cream (swap with coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative)
½ cup Parmesan-style cheese (nutritional yeast can be substituted for a vegan version)
2 cups baby spinach (kale or Swiss chard can be used instead)
1 handful fresh basil (can be omitted or substituted with parsley)

How to Make Sundried Tomato Marry Gnocchi Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
Step 2: Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and 1 teaspoon of mixed Italian seasoning. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the saucepan and cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until the paste darkens slightly.
Step 4: Pour in 1 cup of vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes.
Step 5: In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 package of gnocchi and pan-fry for 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy.
Step 6: Lower the heat on the sauce and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of grated Parmesan-style cheese. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Fold in 2 cups of chopped baby spinach and a handful of fresh basil leaves into the creamy sauce. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the greens are wilted.
Step 8: Finally, toss the crispy gnocchi into the creamy sauce, gently coating them evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on low heat.

Pro Tips for the Best Sundried Tomato Marry Gnocchi

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; fresh basil can elevate the dish significantly.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying gnocchi; this ensures they get crispy.
Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
For a vegan option, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and cheese with nutritional yeast.

Best Ways to Serve Sundried Tomato Marry Gnocchi

Some great serving ideas include:

Pair the dish with a light salad for a complete meal.
Serve it alongside garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for a beautiful presentation.

How to Store and Reheat Sundried Tomato Marry Gnocchi

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sundried Tomato Marry Gnocchi

What’s the secret to perfect Sundried Tomato Marry Gnocchi?

The secret lies in the quality of your ingredients and ensuring the gnocchi is pan-fried to a crispy texture before mixing it with the creamy sundried tomato gnocchi sauce.

Can I make Sundried Tomato Marry Gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance, but it’s best to cook the gnocchi fresh just before serving to maintain its texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sundried Tomato Marry Gnocchi?

To avoid soggy gnocchi, ensure they are fried until crispy and do not overcook them in the sauce. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Variations of Sundried Tomato Marry Gnocchi You Can Try

Consider these creative twists:

For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or chickpeas to the mix.
Try a vegan sundried tomato gnocchi version by using coconut cream and omitting cheese.
Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
Make a sundried tomato gnocchi bake by transferring it to a baking dish, topping with cheese, and baking until golden.

For more tips on cooking with gnocchi, check out this guide. If you’re interested in vegetarian recipes, visit this page for more ideas. You can also explore additional variations to enhance your cooking experience.