Vegan Roasted Tomato Gnocchi
If you’re craving something both comforting and bursting with vibrant flavor, then Vegan Roasted Tomato Gnocchi is exactly what your kitchen needs. This dish combines pillowy gnocchi with the rich, slightly caramelized sweetness of roasted tomatoes, finished with fragrant herbs and savory spices that make every bite an absolute delight. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, Vegan Roasted Tomato Gnocchi offers a beautiful balance of textures and tastes that feels cozy and gourmet all at once.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple yet impressive: This dish brings together a handful of ingredients to create a gourmet-worthy meal that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
- Comfort food with a twist: It’s the perfect plant-based version of classic gnocchi, updated with the bright, savory depth of roasted tomatoes.
- Family and guest friendly: Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this recipe pleases a crowd and suits many diets and preferences.
- Nutritious and satisfying: Each ingredient adds vitamins, minerals, or plant-based protein for a nourishing meal that keeps you energized.
- Versatile and customizable: It’s easy to tweak with additional veggies or sauces to keep things exciting whenever you make it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Vegan Roasted Tomato Gnocchi is in its approachable ingredient list. Each one plays an essential role – from the creamy gnocchi base to the juicy roasted tomatoes that make every bite pop with flavor, plus herbs and spices that lift the dish to a whole new level.
- Gnocchi: Choose a store-bought vegan gnocchi or make your own for a fresh, tender base.
- Fresh tomatoes: Roma or cherry tomatoes work wonderfully, adding natural sweetness and acidity.
- Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil to roast the tomatoes and enhance overall richness.
- Garlic cloves: Roasting garlic softens its bite and infuses the sauce with mellow aroma.
- Fresh basil: Adds a fragrant herbaceous note that complements the tomato perfectly.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors just right.
- Red chili flakes (optional): For a little gentle heat that awakens the palate.
Variations for Vegan Roasted Tomato Gnocchi
Feel free to get creative with your Vegan Roasted Tomato Gnocchi! This recipe is incredibly forgiving and adapts well to tweaks whether you want more veggies or a different flavor profile to suit your mood.
- Add greens: Stir in sautéed spinach or kale for extra nutrients and a lovely color contrast.
- Use different herbs: Swap basil for oregano or thyme to explore new aromatic twists.
- Include vegan cheese: Sprinkle nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Try roasted veggies: Mix in roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant to bulk up the dish.
- Make it spicy: Increase red chili flakes or add smoked paprika for a smoky kick.
How to Make Vegan Roasted Tomato Gnocchi
Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes and Garlic
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place halved tomatoes and whole garlic cloves on a baking sheet, drizzle generously with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until the tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized.
Step 2: Prepare the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the vegan gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Step 3: Blend the Roasted Tomato Sauce
Once the tomatoes and garlic are cool enough to handle, squeeze the garlic from its skin and place everything in a blender or food processor. Pulse until smooth but still slightly textured, adding fresh basil leaves and red chili flakes if using. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce
In a large skillet, gently warm the roasted tomato sauce over medium heat. Toss in the cooked gnocchi and stir gently until each piece is coated and heated through.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Transfer to plates and garnish with fresh basil leaves, extra olive oil drizzle, or vegan parmesan if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.
Pro Tips for Making Vegan Roasted Tomato Gnocchi
- Choose quality gnocchi: Using fresh or homemade vegan gnocchi elevates the texture and flavor tremendously.
- Do not skip roasting: Roasting the tomatoes develops natural sweetness and eliminates any raw, acidic edge.
- Season throughout: Taste and adjust salt and spices at each step to build layers of flavor.
- Gentle tossing: Stir the gnocchi carefully to avoid breaking them apart.
- Fresh herbs matter: Always add fresh basil at the end to preserve its bright, fresh notes.
How to Serve Vegan Roasted Tomato Gnocchi
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves add a pop of green and an herbal freshness that balances the rich sauce perfectly. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or vegan parmesan brings crunch and depth.
Side Dishes
Pair Vegan Roasted Tomato Gnocchi with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables to round out your meal without overwhelming the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the gnocchi in shallow bowls with a drizzle of infused olive oil or balsamic glaze on top for an elegant finish that’s sure to impress guests or elevate your weeknight dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
While gnocchi is best fresh, you can freeze cooked Vegan Roasted Tomato Gnocchi by placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container and storing for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking or drying out.
FAQs
Can I make my own vegan gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade vegan gnocchi can be made using potatoes, flour, and a plant-based binder like flaxseed or vegan yogurt for an even fresher, customized texture.
What kind of tomatoes are best for roasting?
Roma tomatoes or cherry tomatoes work best as they have a great balance of sweetness and acidity that caramelize beautifully when roasted.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Traditional gnocchi contains gluten, but you can use store-bought or homemade gluten-free gnocchi to adapt this recipe accordingly.
How spicy is Vegan Roasted Tomato Gnocchi?
The recipe is mild by default, but you can easily adjust the heat level by adding more or less red chili flakes or substituting with fresh chili peppers.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, the roasted tomato sauce can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated; just reheat it gently before tossing with freshly cooked gnocchi.
Final Thoughts
Vegan Roasted Tomato Gnocchi is a cozy, flavorful dish that brings warmth and joy with every bite. Its simple ingredients work harmoniously to create a meal that feels special yet approachable, perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself. Give this recipe a try—you might just discover your new favorite comfort food.
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PrintVegan Roasted Tomato Gnocchi
Vegan Roasted Tomato Gnocchi is a comforting and flavorful plant-based dish featuring tender gnocchi tossed in a rich, slightly caramelized roasted tomato sauce infused with garlic, fresh basil, and savory spices. This recipe is simple yet gourmet, perfect for vegans and anyone looking to enjoy a vibrant, nutritious meal with versatile options for customization.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Gnocchi
- Store-bought or homemade vegan gnocchi (quantity as needed, about 1 lb / 450 g recommended)
Roasted Tomatoes and Sauce
- 1 pint Roma or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4–6 whole garlic cloves
- 2–3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Handful of fresh basil leaves
- Red chili flakes, optional, to taste
Instructions
- Roast the Tomatoes and Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place halved tomatoes and whole garlic cloves on a baking sheet, drizzle generously with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until the tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized.
- Prepare the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the vegan gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Blend the Roasted Tomato Sauce: Once the tomatoes and garlic are cool enough to handle, squeeze the garlic from its skin and place everything in a blender or food processor. Pulse until smooth but still slightly textured, adding fresh basil leaves and red chili flakes if using. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: In a large skillet, gently warm the roasted tomato sauce over medium heat. Toss in the cooked gnocchi and stir gently until each piece is coated and heated through.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer to plates and garnish with fresh basil leaves, an extra drizzle of olive oil, or vegan parmesan if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.
Notes
- Choose quality gnocchi: Using fresh or homemade vegan gnocchi elevates the texture and flavor tremendously.
- Do not skip roasting: Roasting the tomatoes develops natural sweetness and eliminates any raw, acidic edge.
- Season throughout: Taste and adjust salt and spices at each step to build layers of flavor.
- Gentle tossing: Stir the gnocchi carefully to avoid breaking them apart.
- Fresh herbs matter: Always add fresh basil at the end to preserve its bright, fresh notes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: vegan gnocchi, roasted tomato sauce, plant-based comfort food, easy vegan dinner, gluten-free gnocchi, tomato basil gnocchi
