Short introduction
Tuscan Creamy Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together flavorful ingredients in a warm, creamy broth. This Italian-inspired soup is perfect for chilly days when you crave something rich and satisfying. It’s simple to prepare and makes for a delightful meal any time of the week.
Why you’ll love it
This soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Made with wholesome ingredients such as gnocchi, white beans, and kale, it packs a punch of fiber and protein. The creamy texture from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese makes each spoonful indulgent, while the combination of herbs adds depth of flavor. Plus, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 package gnocchi
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions & key variations
If you’re looking to tweak this recipe, here are some substitutions and variations you can consider:
- Gnocchi: You can use homemade gnocchi or any store-bought variety you enjoy.
- White beans: Cannelini beans or chickpeas can be swapped for white beans for a different flavor.
- Kale: Spinach or Swiss chard works well as alternatives to kale.
- Heavy cream: For a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream.
- Herbs: Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fresh twist.
Step-by-step
Step 1
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Step 2
Next, pour in the vegetable broth, and add the drained white beans and dried thyme and oregano. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3
Once it reaches a boil, add the gnocchi to the pot. Cook according to package instructions, which typically means waiting for them to float to the top.
Step 4
After the gnocchi have floated, add the chopped kale into the pot. Cook everything for an additional 2-3 minutes until the kale is tender.
Step 5
Reduce the heat to low. Now, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese has melted and the soup becomes creamy.
Step 6
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final stir.
Step 7
Serve hot in bowls, and enjoy your delicious soup!
Success tips
- Temperature: Make sure to cook the soup over medium heat to prevent the cream from curdling.
- Texture: For a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup and then mix it back in.
- Common mistakes: Avoid overcooking the gnocchi, or they may become mushy. Once they float, they are ready!
How to serve
Serve your Tuscan Creamy Gnocchi Soup warm with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top. It pairs well with crusty bread for dipping or a light salad on the side for a complete meal.
Storage & reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup on the stove over low heat until heated through. If the soup thickens in the fridge, add a little vegetable broth or water while reheating to return it to the desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze it without the cream. After thawing, you can add cream when reheating.
2. How long does this soup last in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you ensure your gnocchi is gluten-free, then the soup can be gluten-free.
4. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?
Absolutely! Just remember that fresh herbs are usually more potent, so use a bit more.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add carrots, zucchini, or any of your favorite vegetables for added nutrition.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
This soup is a good source of protein and fiber due to the beans and kale. One serving typically contains about 350 calories, providing a balanced meal option. To make it healthier, you may opt for low-fat cream and reduce the cheese a bit.
Conclusion
Tuscan Creamy Gnocchi Soup is an easy and delectable dish perfect for any day of the week. With its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, it is sure to become a family favorite. So grab your ingredients and whip up a pot of warming goodness today!
Links to related recipes
- Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
- Garlic and Parmesan Roasted Veggies
- Spinach and Artichoke Soup
Tuscan Creamy Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 package gnocchi Use either homemade or store-bought gnocchi.
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed Can substitute with Cannelini beans or chickpeas.
- 2 cups kale, chopped Spinach or Swiss chard can be used as alternatives.
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream For a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, and add the drained white beans, dried thyme, and oregano. Stir together, then bring to a boil.
- Add the gnocchi to the pot. Cook according to package instructions, typically until they float.
- Once the gnocchi have floated, add the chopped kale. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the kale is tender.
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese has melted and the soup is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well.
- Serve hot in bowls, with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top.