A steaming bowl of Creamy Vegetarian Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort meal. This dish is packed with tender potato gnocchi, protein-rich chickpeas, and a velvety Parmesan-infused broth that wraps everything together beautifully. Fresh baby spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition, making this soup both wholesome and indulgent. Perfect for cozy evenings, this one-pot wonder comes together in just over 30 minutes, making it an easy go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian meal or simply craving a rich and creamy soup, this dish is guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out. Pair it with crusty bread and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for a meal you’ll want to make again and again!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage
- 32 ounces (4 cups) vegetable broth
- 1 (15oz) can chickpeas, drained
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 to 3 cups baby spinach
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, along with a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 8 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, oregano, and sage. Cook for another minute, stirring frequently to release the flavors.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the drained chickpeas. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the potato gnocchi and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes until the gnocchi is tender and cooked through.
- Stir in the whole milk and shredded Parmesan cheese, allowing the cheese to melt into the broth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the baby spinach, letting it wilt in the soup for a few minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and serve warm with crusty bread.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 422 kcal per serving | Servings: 5
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Quick and Easy to Make
One of the best things about this vegetarian gnocchi soup is how simple and fast it is to prepare. In just 35 minutes, you can have a pot of delicious, homemade soup ready to serve. The minimal prep time makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. One-Pot Convenience
Not only is this recipe quick, but it also requires just one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Cooking everything in a single pot allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a depth of taste that makes this dish irresistible.
3. A Nutrient-Packed Meal
This soup is not only comforting but also nutritious. Here’s why:
- Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. They help keep you full longer while supporting digestion and heart health.
- Spinach is loaded with iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making it a great addition for boosting immunity and overall well-being.
- Gnocchi, made from potatoes, provides a satisfying texture while adding carbohydrates that fuel the body with energy.
- Parmesan cheese contributes a rich umami flavor and offers a good amount of calcium for strong bones.
This dish is a great way to enjoy a balanced meal that includes protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, all while indulging in a creamy and flavorful broth.
How This Soup Compares to Other Gnocchi Soups
Many people are familiar with Chicken & Gnocchi Soup, a popular dish at Olive Garden and other Italian-inspired restaurants. This version, however, stands out because:
- It’s completely vegetarian, making it a great option for those following a plant-based diet or looking to reduce their meat consumption.
- The use of chickpeas instead of chicken adds a new layer of texture and protein.
- Milk and Parmesan replace heavy cream, creating a lighter yet still creamy consistency.
- The combination of herbs like thyme, oregano, and sage enhances the soup’s depth of flavor, making each spoonful deliciously aromatic.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
To make this meal even more enjoyable, here are some great serving suggestions:
- Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread – The creamy broth pairs beautifully with a warm, crispy slice of bread that can be dipped into the soup.
- Side Salad – A fresh, light salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish and adds some crunch.
- Grated Parmesan & Fresh Herbs – Garnishing with extra cheese and fresh parsley or basil enhances both flavor and presentation.
- A Glass of White Wine – If you enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, try pairing this soup with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity balances the richness of the broth.
Customizations & Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily tweak it to suit different dietary preferences and flavor profiles.
- Make it Vegan: Substitute the whole milk with coconut milk, oat milk, or soy milk for a dairy-free version. Replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Add More Vegetables: While the soup already contains spinach, carrots, celery, and onions, you can boost its nutrition by adding zucchini, mushrooms, bell peppers, or kale.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Most gnocchi brands contain wheat, but you can find gluten-free potato gnocchi at many grocery stores or make your own at home.
- Increase the Protein: If you want an even heartier soup, consider adding cannellini beans or tofu for an extra dose of protein.
- Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
These modifications allow you to customize the recipe based on your dietary needs or personal preferences while keeping the essence of the dish intact.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers, you’ll be happy to know that this soup stores well and can be enjoyed the next day.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: While you can freeze this soup, keep in mind that the texture of the gnocchi and spinach may change slightly upon reheating. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. If it has thickened, add a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, Creamy Vegetarian Gnocchi Soup is a dish that’s both simple and impressive. The creamy broth, tender gnocchi, and hearty chickpeas make it an absolute delight for any meal. Its versatility allows for easy customizations, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy it according to their preferences.
More than just a comforting bowl of soup, this recipe offers a balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition, making it a staple dish for vegetarians, soup lovers, and anyone looking for a delicious, easy-to-make meal. With its one-pot convenience, minimal prep time, and incredibly rich taste, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
So, the next time you’re craving a cozy, satisfying meal, grab a pot and whip up this Creamy Vegetarian Gnocchi Soup. Pair it with some crusty bread and enjoy the warmth and comfort that only a bowl of homemade soup can bring.