Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious meal that’ll warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds, then let me introduce you to my Vegan Gnocchi Mushroom Florentine. This dish has become a little slice of heaven for me, especially those days when I need a big bowl of comfort food without the animal products. It’s creamy, packed with flavor, and oh-so-satisfying!
I remember the first time I made this dish—it was a chilly evening, and my friends were over for a movie night. I had just discovered vegan gnocchi at my local store, and I couldn’t wait to experiment with it. This creamy mushroom sauce was born that night, and I was amazed at how quickly it came together! It became an instant hit, and now I make it at least once a month. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens and nutrients!
What’s in Vegan Gnocchi Mushroom Florentine?
Let’s break down what makes this dish so scrumptious. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that delightful flavor and creamy texture we all crave.
Vegan Gnocchi: The star of the show! These fluffy potato dumplings are satisfying and make a great base for our dish. I usually go for the store-bought ones for convenience, but you can also make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
Olive Oil: For sautéing those veggies and adding a rich flavor. I like to use extra virgin olive oil because it adds that lovely Mediterranean touch.
Onion: A medium onion, diced, becomes sweet and flavorful as it cooks down. It’s a must for that aromatic base.
Garlic: Three cloves of minced garlic—because who doesn’t love that garlicky goodness? It adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the sauce.
Mushrooms: Around 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms, like cremini or button varieties, add a meaty texture and earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the gnocchi.
Spinach: Four cups of fresh spinach—this is where we get to add a pop of color and nutrition! It wilts down beautifully and adds a lovely freshness.
Coconut Cream or Cashew Cream: I often use coconut cream for its rich and creamy consistency, but cashew cream works wonders too! It gives that luxurious feel to the sauce.
Vegetable Broth: Half a cup of vegetable broth brings an extra layer of flavor while also helping to balance the creaminess.
Dried Oregano & Thyme: These dried herbs provide a lovely aroma and elevate the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Salt and Pepper: Always essential for seasoning! Adjust to your taste.
Freshly Cracked Black Pepper & Nutritional Yeast: These are optional toppings, but they add an extra punch of flavor. Nutritional yeast gives you that cheesy flavor without dairy!
Is Vegan Gnocchi Mushroom Florentine Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about whether this dish is good for you! The combination of fresh vegetables and creamy goodness means you’re getting some essential nutrients while still indulging in a comforting meal.
Spinach: Packed with vitamins A, C, K, and iron, spinach is a nutritional powerhouse! It also adds fiber, which is great for digestion.
Mushrooms: They bring not just flavor but also provide antioxidants and essential minerals. Plus, they may help boost the immune system!
Coconut Cream: While it’s high in calories and saturated fat, when used in moderation, it can offer healthy fats that are good for energy and satiety.
Just remember to keep an eye on the portion sizes keeping everything balanced in your diet, and enjoy this dish guilt-free!
Ingredients
– 1 package (16 oz) vegan gnocchi
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or button)
– 4 cups fresh spinach
– 1 cup coconut cream or cashew cream
– 1/2 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly cracked black pepper and nutritional yeast for topping (optional)
This recipe serves about 4 generous portions, perfect for meal prep or to share with loved ones!
How to Make Vegan Gnocchi Mushroom Florentine?
Now, let’s dive into the cooking process—it’s easier than you might think!
1. Start by cooking the vegan gnocchi according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and set aside. (Trust me, the smell will be glorious!)
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Toss in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms are softened and browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Now, stir in the fresh spinach and let it cook until wilted, which takes about 2-3 minutes. Your kitchen should smell delightful by now!
5. Pour in that luscious coconut cream and vegetable broth, then add dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to combine all those beautiful flavors.
6. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, gently stirring to coat them in that creamy mushroom sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
7. Serve hot, topped with freshly cracked black pepper and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast if you like! Dig in and enjoy!
Savory Suggestions for Vegan Gnocchi Mushroom Florentine
Before you go, here are some tips to customize your Vegan Gnocchi Mushroom Florentine:
– **Add More Veggies:** Feel free to throw in some kale, zucchini, or even sun-dried tomatoes for more flavor and texture.
– **Top It Off:** You can garnish this dish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.
– **Make It Cheesy:** If you miss that cheesy flavor, add in some vegan cream cheese or a sprinkle of vegan parmesan to the sauce for an extra creamy, cheesy touch.
I hope you give this recipe a shot! It’s honestly one of my favorites and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself on a solo night in, this Vegan Gnocchi Mushroom Florentine is bound to impress. I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so feel free to share your experience! Happy cooking!
