Vegan Gnocchi Soup

This creamy Vegan Gnocchi Soup is the perfect cozy dish for any occasion. It comes together in under 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, this soup offers a delicious twist on the classic recipe by incorporating chickpeas for added protein and creaminess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, this soup is perfect for when you’re short on time.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of vegetables, chickpeas, and gnocchi creates a warm, satisfying dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste.
• Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and chickpeas, this soup is both wholesome and filling.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make cooking smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large nonstick pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large nonstick pot: This allows you to cook without sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts, which can speed up the cooking process.

Ingredients

This creamy Vegan Gnocchi Soup is so cozy and easy to make in under 25 minutes. It tastes just like the classic soup but with chickpeas.

• 2 tablespoons vegan butter (or oil) (see note 1 to make oil-free)
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 large rib celery (or 2 small ribs), finely chopped
• 2 large carrots, thinly sliced
• ¾ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper + more for serving
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all purpose flour (see note 2 to make gluten-free)
• 1 ½ cups or a 15-ounce can cooked chickpeas (see note 3 for substitutions)
• 4-5 cups vegan chicken broth, to taste (see note 4)
• 16 – 32 ounces gnocchi (see note 5)
• ½ cup or more (up to 1 cup) of vegan cream, to taste (see note 6 for options)
• 1-2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped, optional

How to Make Vegan Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large nonstick pot over medium-high heat, melt the vegan butter. If not using vegan butter, opt for olive oil or another oil. For an oil-free version, add broth or water one tablespoon at a time while stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add Onion, Celery, and Carrots

Add the onion, celery, and carrots. Stir frequently for about three minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Stir in the black pepper, minced garlic, and cook for an additional thirty seconds while stirring constantly.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour

Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Stir continuously for thirty seconds until well combined.

Step 5: Add Chickpeas and Broth

Add your cooked chickpeas. Slowly pour in the vegan chicken broth, mixing well as you do.

Step 6: Add Gnocchi

Carefully add the gnocchi. Stir gently to combine without splashing hot soup on yourself!

Step 7: Bring to a Boil

Bring the mixture to a boil after adding the gnocchi. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for approximately eight minutes, stirring occasionally until gnocchi is tender.

Step 8: Finish with Cream and Spinach

Stir in your desired amount of vegan cream (starting with half a cup) along with chopped spinach if using. Cook for an additional one to two minutes until spinach wilts.

Step 9: Serve

Taste your soup; adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with extra black pepper sprinkled on top. Optionally garnish with chopped parsley or grated vegan parmesan.

Step 10: Store Leftovers

Refrigerate any leftover soup in an airtight container for up to five days or freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to ninety days. When reheating, add a splash of hot broth or water if needed as it may thicken upon cooling.

How to Serve Vegan Gnocchi Soup

Vegan Gnocchi Soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Whole or torn basil leaves complement the flavors beautifully.

Add a Splash of Lemon Juice

• Zesty Flavor: A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens up the soup and adds a refreshing tang.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: Serve slices of crusty bread for dipping, perfect for soaking up the creamy soup.

Top with Vegan Cheese

• Grated Vegan Parmesan: Sprinkle some grated vegan parmesan on top for added creaminess and flavor.

Include Crunchy Toppings

• Toasted Nuts or Seeds: Add toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

How to Perfect Vegan Gnocchi Soup

Creating the perfect Vegan Gnocchi Soup requires attention to detail and a few handy tips.

• Use Fresh Veggies: Fresh vegetables elevate the soup’s taste and texture. Choose vibrant, seasonal produce.
• Adjust Broth Amount: Start with less broth and gradually add more until you reach your desired consistency.
• Experiment with Creaminess: Add more or less vegan cream based on your preference for creaminess; it can drastically change the texture.
• Cook Gnocchi Separately: For firmer gnocchi, consider cooking them separately and adding them just before serving.
• Season to Taste: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed, especially if using low-sodium broth.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Gnocchi Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Gnocchi Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a hearty side that complements the soup well.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with quinoa or rice make a filling addition to your meal.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil is a flavorful appetizer that pairs nicely.
6. Veggie Spring Rolls: Crisp spring rolls filled with fresh vegetables offer a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Gnocchi Soup can be straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes to watch for.

• Using too much oil: Excessive oil can make the soup greasy. Use just enough to sauté the vegetables or opt for broth if you’re aiming for an oil-free version.
• Not chopping veggies uniformly: If your vegetables are not cut evenly, they may cook unevenly. Aim for consistent sizes to ensure everything cooks through at the same time.
• Overcooking the gnocchi: Gnocchi should be tender but not mushy. Add them in the last stages of cooking and monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Every broth can vary in saltiness. Taste the soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed to enhance flavors.
• Skipping fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and greens add depth. Don’t skip adding spinach or garnishes, as they elevate the dish’s taste and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Vegan Gnocchi Soup

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 90 days.

Reheating Vegan Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Vegan Gnocchi Soup creamy?

The creaminess comes from vegan cream added towards the end of cooking, which blends beautifully with the broth.

Can I customize my Vegan Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap chickpeas for other legumes like lentils.

How do I make this Vegan Gnocchi Soup gluten-free?

Simply replace regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free gnocchi options.

How long does it take to prepare Vegan Gnocchi Soup?

This cozy soup can be made in under 25 minutes, perfect for a quick meal!

Final Thoughts

Vegan Gnocchi Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables and spices based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness!