Vegan Gnocchi Recipe: Easy, Delicious, and Dairy-Free

There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of fluffy, pillowy gnocchi, and the best part is you don’t need any animal products to enjoy this classic Italian dish. Our vegan gnocchi recipe offers a delicious, plant-based twist on the traditional potato dumplings.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring more plant-based meals, this recipe is both approachable and satisfying. Made with simple ingredients like potatoes, flour, and a pinch of salt, these gnocchi are light, soft, and perfect for pairing with your favorite vegan sauces or sautéed vegetables.

Making your own gnocchi at home might sound intimidating, but with our step-by-step guide, you’ll see how easy and rewarding it is. Plus, it’s a fun project to try with family or friends, and you’ll be proud to serve a dish that’s fresh, wholesome, and bursting with flavor.

Ready to impress? Let’s dive into the world of vegan gnocchi!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegan gnocchi is a versatile and comforting dish that combines the best of homemade cooking with simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Easy and approachable: You don’t need fancy ingredients or equipment to create these soft, pillowy dumplings.
• Plant-based and allergy-friendly: No eggs or dairy, making it suitable for vegans and those with common allergies.
• Customizable: Pair with your favorite vegan sauces like Vegan Bechamel Sauce or toss with sautéed vegetables.
• Perfect texture: Soft on the inside with just the right bite on the outside.
• Family-friendly: A comforting meal that even kids will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds (900g) russet potatoes (about 4 large potatoes)
• 1 to 1 ½ cups (125-190g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for tenderness)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling potatoes
• Potato masher or fork
• Mixing bowl
• Clean work surface or large cutting board
• Fork or gnocchi board for shaping
• Large pot for boiling gnocchi
• Slotted spoon

Instructions

1. Prepare the potatoes: Wash the potatoes thoroughly and place them whole (with skin on) into a large pot of cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender when pierced with a fork, about 30-40 minutes depending on size.
2. Drain and cool: Drain the potatoes and let them cool just enough to handle. Peel the skin off while still warm for easier mashing.
3. Mash the potatoes: Using a potato masher or fork, mash the potatoes until smooth and free of lumps. Avoid overworking to keep them light and fluffy.
4. Mix the dough: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a clean work surface or bowl. Sprinkle with salt and about 1 cup of the flour. Add the olive oil if using. Gently mix and knead the dough, adding more flour as needed, until it is soft but not sticky. The dough should hold together without crumbling.
5. Shape the gnocchi: Divide the dough into 4 portions. Roll each portion into a long rope about ¾ inch thick. Cut into 1-inch pieces. Use a fork or gnocchi board to gently press each piece, creating ridges that help sauces cling.
6. Cook the gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the gnocchi in batches to avoid overcrowding. They are done when they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove and transfer to a plate.
7. Serve immediately: Toss the cooked gnocchi with your favorite vegan sauce, sautéed vegetables, or a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“For the lightest gnocchi, use russet potatoes as they have a drier texture. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes or Yukon golds as they can make the dough sticky.”

• Flour type: You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends for a gluten-free version, but the texture might vary slightly.
• Adding flavor: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary or sage into the dough for an aromatic touch.
• Alternative sauces: Try pairing your gnocchi with a vegan pesto, hearty tomato sauce, or a creamy mushroom sauce. For inspiration, check out our Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then transfer to a bag. Boil from frozen, adding an extra minute to cooking time.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegan gnocchi is a fantastic base for a variety of dishes. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your meal:

• Toss with a simple garlic and olive oil sauce, topped with fresh basil and cracked black pepper.
• Serve alongside sautéed kale or Swiss chard for a nutrient boost. For recipes featuring this leafy green, check out our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals.
• Pair with creamy vegan sauces like cashew-based Alfredo or a rich tomato basil sauce for a comforting dinner.
• Add roasted vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.

Conclusion

Making vegan gnocchi at home is a rewarding and delicious way to enjoy a classic Italian dish without any animal products. This recipe is simple, versatile, and perfect for any occasion—from cozy weeknight dinners to special gatherings.

With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create soft, tender gnocchi that pairs beautifully with a range of sauces and sides. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this gnocchi recipe will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation.

For more plant-based inspiration, don’t miss our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves or our collection of Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals. Happy cooking!

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