If you’re a fan of gnocchi, this recipe is going to hit all the right notes. It’s garlicky, rich with pesto, and packed with flavors that make every bite delicious.
Plus, it’s quick and simple enough for anyone to make, even on a busy weeknight.
Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or just looking for an easy dinner idea, this gnocchi with sun-dried tomato pesto is a great option.
This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences, too, but one thing’s for sure: it’s always going to be delicious.
With simple ingredients like gnocchi, sun-dried tomato pesto, and garlic, you can’t go wrong.
The best part? You can have this meal ready in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you don’t have time to fuss over dinner.
Let’s dive into how to make it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons to love this gnocchi with sun-dried tomato pesto.
First, it’s incredibly quick and easy. In about 20 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready to go, making it a perfect option for weeknights or last-minute dinners.
The recipe is simple enough for even a beginner cook, and you can easily modify it to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
It’s also entirely vegan, though you can adapt it if needed. If you like to prep ahead, this dish allows for some flexibility, too—you can make the gnocchi up to six hours in advance, so everything’s ready when you need it.
Ingredients To Make Vegan Gnocchi With Sundried Tomato Pesto
Using just a few key ingredients, many of which you may already have at home, you can make this delicious Italian dish in no time.
You’ll need some store-bought or homemade vegan gnocchi, sun-dried tomato pesto, cornstarch, garlic, vegan butter, fresh basil, vegan Parmesan, and your favorite plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk.
Don’t forget the staples like salt, pepper, and olive oil to enhance the flavor.
Check out the quantities below:
- Vegan Gnocchi – 500g (store-bought or homemade)
- Sun-dried tomato pesto – ½ cup (adjust to taste)
- Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Vegan butter – 2 tablespoons (or regular butter if not vegan)
- Fresh basil – ¼ cup, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Vegan Parmesan – ¼ cup (or regular Parmesan if not vegan)
- Plant-based milk – 1 cup (unsweetened, such as almond or oat milk)
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
- Salt – to taste
- Pepper – to taste
How To Make Gnocchi With Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
To get started, prepare your sun-dried tomato pesto according to the instructions provided on the jar, or make your own if you prefer.
Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle simmer, and cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions, typically 3–5 minutes. You’ll know the gnocchi is ready when it floats to the top of the water.
While the gnocchi is cooking, heat a pan over medium heat, adding a bit of olive oil, vegan butter, and garlic.
Sauté for about a minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant and the butter has melted. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and plant-based milk until smooth.
Add this mixture to the garlic-butter base, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
Then, incorporate the sun-dried tomato pesto into the pan, mixing well to ensure everything is evenly combined.
Once the gnocchi is cooked, drain it and gently toss it in the pan with the pesto sauce, making sure each piece is well-coated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, top with vegan Parmesan and fresh basil, and your dish is ready to serve!
Our Tips For The Perfect Gnocchi With Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
Even though this recipe is straightforward, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure everything turns out perfectly.
First, be careful not to overcook the gnocchi. It only takes a few minutes to cook, so keep an eye on it as it floats to the surface. Overcooked gnocchi will become soft and may lose its shape, though it will still taste great.
Garlic, while essential to the flavor, can be overpowering if used too generously. Start with one clove, and add more only if you feel it needs a stronger punch.
Similarly, cornstarch can be tricky to work with. Be sure to whisk it thoroughly with the milk to avoid clumps, and keep stirring the sauce until it reaches the right consistency. Too much cornstarch will make the sauce too thick, while too little will leave it runny.
Variations To Try
There are plenty of ways to modify this recipe to suit your taste.
If you want to add some protein, crispy tofu is a great vegan option that pairs beautifully with the pesto. If you’re not vegan, grilled chicken works just as well.
For those who love a bit of heat, try adding some crushed chili flakes or fresh chili to the pesto. You can also experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme to give the dish a different flavor profile.
What to Serve With Gnocchi And Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
This dish is satisfying on its own, but if you’re looking for something to pair it with, consider sautéed asparagus, which adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the soft gnocchi.
Garlicky mushrooms are another excellent side, bringing an earthy depth to the meal.
For a lighter option, a Mediterranean lentil salad or cranberry kale salad with pecans and vegan feta would add a refreshing balance to the richness of the pesto sauce.
Final Thoughts
This vegan gnocchi with sun-dried tomato pesto is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving something comforting yet light.
It’s simple to make, adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs, and sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
The combination of garlicky pesto, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh basil makes this dish both satisfying and vibrant, with the added bonus of being ready in under 30 minutes.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering of friends, this recipe offers the kind of versatility that keeps everyone happy.
Plus, with so many ways to customize it, you’ll never get bored of serving up this delicious meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is gnocchi not vegan?
Traditional gnocchi is often made with eggs or sometimes dairy, which are not vegan ingredients. Eggs are typically used to bind the dough, making it richer and denser.
Is packaged gnocchi vegan?
Some packaged gnocchi is vegan, but not all. Always check the ingredients list for any non-vegan components like eggs or dairy. Many brands now offer vegan-friendly versions that use plant-based ingredients.
How do I make sure my gnocchi is vegan?
To ensure your gnocchi is vegan, either check the packaging for a “vegan” label or review the ingredients list. Avoid any that include eggs or dairy. Alternatively, you can make your own gnocchi using flour, potatoes, and olive oil, which are all vegan-friendly.
Can I make homemade gnocchi without eggs?
Yes, gnocchi can easily be made without eggs by using a simple mixture of mashed potatoes and flour. Some recipes might include olive oil for added texture, but it’s not necessary to use eggs.
What’s a good vegan alternative to Parmesan in gnocchi dishes?
Vegan Parmesan is widely available in stores and works great as a replacement. Alternatively, you can make your own using a mix of nutritional yeast, nuts, and garlic powder for a cheesy, savory flavor.
Can I freeze gnocchi for later use?
Yes, both homemade and store-bought gnocchi can be frozen. Just lay the gnocchi out on a tray to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. This keeps them from sticking together. They can be cooked directly from frozen without thawing.
