Name: Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi for Cozy Weeknight Dinners
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Fresh Grape and/or Cherry Tomatoes; 2 medium Shallots; 4 cloves Garlic (whole); 1 teaspoon Coarse Sea Salt (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Cracked Black Pepper (to taste); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika; 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional); 1 inch Fresh Ginger Root (grated); 1 teaspoon Coconut Sugar; 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme (stripped from stems); 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 16 ounces Fresh Potato Gnocchi (vegan); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice; 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves; 1/2 cup Coconut Cream; 1/4 teaspoon Chili Flakes (optional)

As the afternoon sun dipped low in the sky, I stood in my kitchen, surrounded by the comforting aroma of roasted tomatoes. It was the perfect moment for a simple culinary adventure—one that led me to create this delightful Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi. This recipe combines the richness of coconut cream with the sweetness of roasted tomatoes, resulting in a satisfyingly creamy sauce enveloping tender gnocchi. Not only is this dish vegan-friendly, but it’s also a breeze to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners. Serve it hot and watch the smiles unfold around your table—trust me, it’s a guaranteed hit! What fresh ingredients are you excited to toss into your next culinary creation?

Why is This Gnocchi So Special?

Comforting and satisfying, this creamy roasted tomato gnocchi is the ultimate weeknight delight! Quick and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for busy home chefs who crave deliciousness without hours in the kitchen. Rich in flavor, the combination of roasted tomatoes and coconut cream creates a velvet-like sauce that envelopes every bite. Versatile enough to swap in seasonal veggies, this dish adapts beautifully to your pantry needs. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy a hearty, guilt-free meal. For more comforting dishes, don’t miss out on my Crack Chicken Gnocchi or Crockpot Coconut Chicken!

Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi Ingredients

For the Sauce
• Fresh Grape and/or Cherry Tomatoes – The main flavor component; small tomatoes bring the perfect sweetness and acidity.
• Shallots – Provide a mild, sweet onion flavor for a lovely depth.
• Garlic – Essence of the dish, adding rich aroma and flavor.
• Coarse Sea Salt – Enhances flavors beautifully; adjust to taste.
• Cracked Black Pepper – A dash adds complexity and warmth.
• Smoked Paprika – For a hint of smokiness that complements the tomatoes.
• Cayenne Pepper – Adds optional heat; adjust according to preference.
• Fresh Ginger Root – Introduces a spicy warmth that elevates the dish.
• Coconut Sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
• Fresh Thyme – Adds a fragrant herbal note that brightens the sauce.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Essential for roasting, adding rich flavor.

For the Gnocchi
• Fresh Potato Gnocchi – The star of the dish; make sure it’s vegan for compliance.
• Lemon Juice – Adds a refreshing brightness, balancing flavors wonderfully.

For the Garnish
• Fresh Basil Leaves – A delightful herb garnish that enhances the overall flavor.
• Coconut Cream – Creates that luxuriously creamy texture; a must for this recipe!
• Chili Flakes (optional) – For a hint of extra heat and color if desired.

Transform your weeknight dinner with this creamy roasted tomato gnocchi recipe that’s sure to impress—perfectly delicious, nutritious, and vegan!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). This temperature is perfect for roasting the tomatoes and shallots, allowing their natural sweetness to enhance the flavor of your creamy roasted tomato gnocchi. While the oven is heating, gather your cast iron skillet and prepare the fresh ingredients for roasting.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
Once the oven is heating, prepare your ingredients. Remove the stems from the grape or cherry tomatoes and peel the shallots and garlic. Slice the shallots thinly, grate the fresh ginger, and strip the thyme leaves from the stems. This step ensures everything is ready to go into the skillet for a smooth cooking process.

Step 3: Combine for Roasting
In the cast iron skillet, combine the prepared tomatoes, sliced shallots, whole garlic cloves, and spices such as coarse sea salt, cracked black pepper, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and coconut sugar. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and toss everything together until well coated—a vibrant mix that will become the base of your creamy roasted tomato gnocchi.

Step 4: Roast the Vegetables
Place the skillet in the preheated oven and roast the vegetable mixture for about 35 minutes. Stir the contents occasionally, ensuring even roasting. Watch for the tomatoes to burst and the shallots to caramelize, resulting in a colorful and fragrant foundation for your dish.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi
While the vegetables are roasting, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh potato gnocchi to the boiling water and cook them until they float to the surface, roughly 2-3 minutes. Once done, drain the gnocchi, allowing them to rest while the vegetables finish roasting.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients in Skillet
After 35 minutes, remove the skillet from the oven. Smash the roasted garlic cloves with a fork, then add the cooked gnocchi, coconut cream, fresh lemon juice, and chopped basil to the skillet. Gently mix everything together, letting the creamy sauce envelop the gnocchi and vegetables to create a luscious, hearty dish.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Spoon the creamy roasted tomato gnocchi into bowls, garnishing with additional fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of chili flakes if desired for a hint of heat. Serve hot, and enjoy a delightful meal that captures the essence of comfort food with a vibrant twist!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. To maintain the best flavor and quality, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding fresh basil and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.
Freezer: Freeze portions of the creamy roasted tomato gnocchi in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. For best results, separate the gnocchi from the sauce, as the sauce may change texture when frozen.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen leftovers, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or vegetable broth to revive the creamy texture.
Reheating: When reheating, aim for a gentle heat to prevent overcooking the gnocchi; stir occasionally until heated through for the best results.

Expert Tips for Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi

Choose Fresh Gnocchi: Use fresh potato gnocchi for the best texture; dried varieties may become mushy with this creamy roasted tomato gnocchi recipe.
Smash the Garlic: Always smash roasted garlic cloves in the pan for maximum flavor release; this ensures the aroma and taste permeate the entire dish.
Customize the Veggies: Feel free to adjust and add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach; this elevates nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Perfect Cooking Time: Cook the gnocchi just before serving to maintain heat and prevent them from becoming soggy; remember they only need 2-3 minutes in boiling water.
Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: While dried thyme can be used as a substitute, fresh herbs like basil and thyme will enhance the overall flavor of your creamy roasted tomato gnocchi immensely.

What to Serve with Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi

As you savor each bite of this luscious dish, think about the colorful companions that can enhance your meal experience.

Garlic Bread: Warm and buttery garlic bread makes for the perfect side, perfect for sopping up that creamy sauce.
Fresh Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with a zesty lemon dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring a delightful crunch and add visual appeal to your dinner table. Pairing roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli amplifies the meal’s textures.
Mango Chia Seed Pudding: For dessert, this light and fruity pudding is a sweet way to cleanse the palate after a rich meal.
Vegan White Wine: A glass of chilled vegan white wine beautifully complements the flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy, herbed quinoa serves as a delightful base that absorbs extra sauce while adding hearty nutrition to your meal.
Olive Tapenade Crostini: Serve a side of toasted crostini topped with olive tapenade for a savory bite that adds an Italian twist.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, serve a refreshing lemon sorbet; its brightness will contrast perfectly with the creamy gnocchi.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Tender stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and breadcrumbs can be a savory starter or side dish that pairs well with your creamy delight.
Sparkling Water: Complement your meal with a glass of sparkling water, enhanced with lemon or lime slices for a zesty finish.

Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi Variations

Feel free to personalize this delightful dish with your favorite twists and creative substitutions!

Roasted Red Peppers: Swap out the tomatoes for roasted red peppers to add a sweet and smoky flavor that changes the dish entirely. Their vibrant color and taste will brighten your skillet.
Seasonal Vegetables: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition, freshness, and a beautiful medley of colors. Toss them in during the roasting phase for the best results!
Nutty Touch: For a delectable crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top just before serving. They add a wonderful texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different fresh herbs like oregano or parsley instead of basil for a delightful aromatic twist. Each herb brings its unique character, so play around until you find your favorite!
Creamy Options: Instead of coconut cream, try using a thick cashew cream for a different flavor profile. It adds a touch of nuttiness while keeping the dish creamy and luscious.
Lemon Zest Boost: For extra brightness, add some freshly grated lemon zest along with the juice. This little addition expands the citrusy notes that harmonize beautifully with the roasted flavors.
Heat Level Adjustments: For more spice, crank up the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a few extra chili flakes. This will give your creamy roasted tomato gnocchi a fun kick while still keeping it comforting!
Pasta Alternatives: If you’re looking for something other than gnocchi, try using a different form of pasta, like penne or fusilli, that pairs well with the creamy sauce, offering a delightful bite that everyone will love.

These variations not only keep the recipe fresh but also allow you to cater to your personal taste, ensuring that each time you whip it up, it feels uniquely yours! If you’re in search of more comforting options, check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken or try the comforting Crockpot Coconut Chicken. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the tomatoes and shallots up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them in an airtight container after cooling. The same goes for your cooked gnocchi—simply store them separately to maintain their texture. When you’re ready to serve, combine the roasted veggies with gnocchi, coconut cream, lemon juice, and basil before gently warming them on the stovetop. This process allows you to savor a hearty, homemade meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights, ensuring everything remains just as delicious as when freshly made.

Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best tomatoes for this recipe?
When choosing tomatoes, look for fresh grape or cherry varieties, as they provide a delightful balance of sweetness and acidity. Opt for tomatoes that are firm and bright in color, avoiding any with dark spots or wrinkles. If using larger Roma tomatoes, ensure they are ripe for the best flavor!

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy roasted tomato gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. To refresh the flavor, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of fresh basil and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for an extra burst of brightness.

Can I freeze my creamy roasted tomato gnocchi?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions of your creamy roasted tomato gnocchi for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze the gnocchi separately from the sauce, as sauce textures can change when frozen. Use freezer-safe containers and ensure they are well sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Why did my gnocchi get mushy?
If your gnocchi turns out mushy, it can happen from overcooking. Be cautious not to let them boil for longer than 2-3 minutes; they are done when they float to the surface. If you prefer a little more texture, consider pan-frying the gnocchi briefly in olive oil after boiling, prior to mixing them into the sauce.

Can I make this dish gluten-free or avoid specific allergens?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, seek out gluten-free gnocchi available in many supermarkets. Additionally, you can substitute ingredients like coconut cream and herbs according to any allergies; just ensure all replacements align with your dietary needs. This dish is versatile enough to accommodate various requirements while maintaining its delightful flavors!

Is this dish pet-friendly?
While many ingredients in creamy roasted tomato gnocchi are suitable for pets, such as tomatoes and herbs, it’s important to note that garlic and onion (found in shallots) can be harmful to dogs and cats. Therefore, if you’re considering sharing, it’s best to omit these ingredients for a pet-friendly alternative!