This Tuscan Vegan Gnocchi is a quick and delicious dish featuring pillowy gnocchi in a creamy sauce with vegan sausage, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s perfect for a comforting meal ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients
- Gnocchi:
- 1 pound uncooked gnocchi (store-bought)
- Base Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 vegan Italian sausages (7-8 ounces), sliced (e.g., Field Roast)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Sauce Ingredients:
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- 13.5-ounce can full-fat coconut milk
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced (preferably in oil)
- Greens:
- 2 cups loosely packed baby spinach
- Optional Garnishes:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup vegan Parmesan cheese (e.g., Violife or Follow Your Heart)
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
Sauté the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced vegan sausage and sauté for about 5 minutes, until browned.
Add Garlic:
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Prepare the Sauce:
- Pour in the vegetable broth, coconut milk, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
Cook the Gnocchi:
- Add the uncooked gnocchi to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and cook uncovered for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Finish with Spinach:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the baby spinach and cook for another 2 minutes, until wilted.
Add Vegan Parmesan:
- If using, stir in the vegan Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional vegan Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Tips
- For a lighter version, you can substitute light coconut milk for full-fat.
- Feel free to leave out the vegan sausage for a simpler dish or replace it with other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days; reheat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Good Vegan Sausage Brands for Gnocchi
- Field Roast: Known for their Italian sausage style that works well in various dishes.
- Beyond Meat: Offers plant-based sausage that is flavorful and versatile.
- Impossible Foods: Their sausage has a great texture and taste suitable for many recipes.
- Tofurky: Provides a variety of vegan sausages that can be used in gnocchi dishes.
Substituting Coconut Milk with Another Creamy Ingredient
You can substitute coconut milk with:
- Cashew Cream: Blend soaked cashews with water until smooth for a rich, creamy texture.
- Almond Milk: Use unsweetened almond milk for a lighter option (add a thickener if needed).
- Soy Cream or Oat Cream: These alternatives provide creaminess without coconut flavor.
- Vegan Sour Cream: For tanginess and creaminess, consider using vegan sour cream.
Gluten-Free Gnocchi Options
- Store-Bought Gluten-Free Gnocchi: Many brands offer gluten-free options made from potato or rice flour.
- Homemade Gluten-Free Gnocchi: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour or a blend of potato flour and gluten-free flour.
- Sweet Potato Gnocchi: Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes combined with gluten-free flour for a unique twist.
These suggestions will help you explore various ways to enjoy vegan gnocchi while accommodating different dietary needs!
Enjoy your delicious Tuscan Vegan Gnocchi as a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!