Name: Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 18 oz (500 g) fresh grape and/or cherry tomatoes, stems removed; 2 medium shallots, thinly sliced; 10 cloves garlic, peeled; 4 sprigs fresh thyme, stems removed; 1 cup (25 g) fresh basil leaves, loosely packed; 1 small lemon, juiced (about 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice); ¾ teaspoon coarse sea salt (adjust if using fine salt); ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, to taste); 1 teaspoon fresh ginger root, grated; 1½ teaspoons light brown sugar (coconut sugar); 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 18 oz (500 g) fresh potato gnocchi, egg- and dairy-free; 5 tablespoons full fat coconut cream; 1 pinch chili flakes (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 8 reviews

If you have been searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make) Recipe is your new best friend. Bursting with the rich, roasted flavors of tomatoes and the silky touch of coconut cream, this vegan gnocchi dish brings comfort and excitement to your plate all at once. It’s a perfect blend of simple, fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly, delivering a creamy, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven bowls of food ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. The largest bowl on the right is filled with light yellow gnocchi, each piece with soft ridges. Above it, another large bowl holds bright green basil leaves, two lemon halves with a vivid yellow color, and a few sprigs of thyme. To the left of the basil bowl, a medium bowl is full of red, orange, and yellow cherry tomatoes, with smooth, shiny skins. Below the tomato bowl is a smaller bowl containing peeled garlic cloves and thin slices of pale purple shallots. To the bottom right, a small pink bowl contains various ground spices in distinct piles: red chili powder, black pepper, crushed dried spices in orange-brown tones, and a little salt, with small bits of grated ginger. At the bottom left, a small bowl holds golden yellow olive oil. Lastly, a medium bowl near the top left is filled with creamy white yogurt, smooth and thick. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, from the sun-sweet roasted tomatoes to the fresh basil that adds a burst of herbal brightness. These simple components come together to create an irresistible texture and dreamy taste that’s much more than the sum of its parts.

Fresh grape and/or cherry tomatoes, 18 oz (500 g): The star of the dish, roasting enhances their natural sweetness and deepens their flavor.
Shallots, 2 medium (thinly sliced): Adds a subtle onion-like sweetness, perfectly balancing the tangy tomatoes.
Garlic cloves, 10 peeled: Roasts beautifully and infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth.
Coarse sea salt, ¾ teaspoon: Brings all the flavors together; adjust to taste depending on salt type.
Cracked black pepper, ¼ teaspoon: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
Smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon: Introduces a hint of smoky richness without overpowering the dish.
Cayenne pepper, ¼ teaspoon: Just a pinch to lift the overall flavor with a mild kick.
Fresh ginger root, 1 teaspoon grated: Brings a surprising, zesty brightness underneath the creaminess.
Light brown sugar, 1 ½ teaspoons: Balances acidity with subtle sweetness, enhancing roasted flavors.
Fresh thyme, 4 sprigs: Earthy and fragrant, fresh thyme adds depth to the roasted medley.
Extra virgin olive oil, 3 tablespoons: Essential for roasting and creating that luscious base.
Fresh potato gnocchi, 18 oz (500 g), egg- and dairy-free: Soft, pillowy bites that soak up the creamy tomato sauce beautifully.
Lemon juice, from 1 small lemon: A splash of brightness that cuts through the richness.
Fresh basil leaves, 1 cup loosely packed: Floral and fresh, it’s the perfect herbaceous finish.
Coconut cream (full fat), 5 tablespoons: The magic ingredient that makes this recipe creamy and comforting without any dairy.
Chili flakes, a pinch (optional): For those who like a little extra heat to complement the smoky undertones.

How to Make Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make) Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Roast the Tomatoes and Aromatics

Start by preheating your oven to 375ºF (190ºC) to get it ready for the roasting magic. Remove the stems from your tomatoes and peel the garlic cloves. Thinly slice the shallots and grate fresh ginger for that zesty note. Remove and chop the thyme if it’s dry, so it’s easier to blend with the other ingredients. Toss all these beautiful vegetables and aromatics with the olive oil, spices, salt, pepper, and brown sugar right in a cast iron skillet or oven-proof dish. Mixing them thoroughly ensures every piece gets a perfect glaze. Pop the skillet into the oven and let it roast for 35 minutes — this step intensifies the flavors and softens the tomatoes into a luscious base.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

While the tomatoes roast, bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, gently add your fresh potato gnocchi and watch with delight as they float to the surface in just 2 to 3 minutes. This quick cooking method gives you those tender, pillowy bites that are fundamental to this dish’s soul. Drain the gnocchi and set it aside, ready to be combined with the fragrant roasted tomato mixture.

Step 3: Combine and Finish Your Sauce

Remove the skillet carefully from the oven — the aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. To the skillet, add the cooked gnocchi, coconut cream, lemon juice, and fresh basil leaves, folding everything together gently. The coconut cream melts into the roasted tomatoes, creating that silky, creamy sauce you will fall in love with. The basil adds a fresh brightness, and the lemon juice gives it a perfect zing. Taste and adjust with more salt, pepper, or chili flakes if you want that little extra kick.

How to Serve Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make) Recipe

A rustic white bowl filled with several layers of soft, small potato-like dumplings covered in a creamy, orange-red sauce. Mixed within the sauce are bright green basil leaves, chunks of red and orange tomatoes, and thin slices of white onion. The dish is sprinkled with black pepper flakes and small bits of red spice, giving a slightly speckled look. The bowl rests on a crumpled gray cloth over a white marbled surface, with a glimpse of a light green stalk leaning to the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To take your dish up a notch, scatter some fresh basil leaves or a pinch of chili flakes on top just before serving. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add an extra touch of richness or umami. Presentation is all about those little finishing details that make each bowl inviting.

Side Dishes

This creamy roasted tomato gnocchi pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans. If you want a heartier meal, garlic bread or vegan Parmesan-style cheese make delightful companions without overpowering the delicate flavors of the gnocchi.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the gnocchi in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of edible flowers or microgreens for that elegant fuss-free look. Alternatively, use colorful plates to highlight the vibrant reds and greens in the dish. Sharing it family-style in the skillet straight from the oven also makes for a cozy, rustic presentation everyone will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store your leftovers in an airtight container to preserve that creamy texture and fresh roasted flavor. Give it a gentle stir before reheating to redistribute the sauce evenly.

Freezing

If you want to make this Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make) Recipe ahead for busy days, freezing is a good option. Freeze in portion-sized airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to keep the gnocchi tender and avoid any texture loss.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of plant milk or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent the sauce from separating and gnocchi becoming tough. Slow and steady brings back the creamy lusciousness like it’s freshly made.

FAQs

Is this Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make) Recipe suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are easy to find. Plus, roasting the tomatoes does most of the heavy flavor work, making it perfect for anyone new to vegan cooking.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought vegan gnocchi works wonderfully. Just be sure to check the ingredients for any dairy or eggs to keep the dish fully vegan.

What can I substitute for coconut cream?

If you don’t have coconut cream on hand, full-fat canned coconut milk can work as a substitute, but it might be slightly less thick. Another option is a vegan cashew cream if you’re looking for a neutral flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free gnocchi to keep it gluten-free. Be sure to check all your spice and condiment labels, though, to avoid any hidden gluten.

How spicy is the dish, and can I adjust the heat?

The recipe has a mild warmth from smoked paprika, cayenne, and optional chili flakes, but you can easily reduce or increase the cayenne and chili flakes to suit your heat preference.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make) Recipe has quickly won a place in my heart as one of those meals that feels like comfort food without any fuss. It’s packed with flavor, textures, and so much creamy goodness that you won’t miss dairy at all. Trust me when I say, once you make this, it will become your favorite weeknight dinner or a special treat to impress family and friends. Set aside some time, gather your ingredients, and enjoy every cozy, delicious bite.

Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make) Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi (Vegan & Easy to Make) Recipe