Tomato & Red Pepper Gnocchi

Tomato & Red Pepper Gnocchi is a dish that brings together pillowy gnocchi and a hearty, flavour-packed sauce made from fresh, vibrant ingredients. This quick and easy vegan recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. It takes just 30 minutes to prepare!

With a combination of sweet red peppers, juicy plum tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, this dish offers a rich Italian experience that will satisfy both vegans and non-vegans alike. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual dinner or as a comforting meal to share with friends, this Tomato & Red Pepper Gnocchi is sure to become a favourite in your kitchen.

Table of Contents

• Ingredient Breakdown
• The Origins of Gnocchi
• The Health Benefits of Tomato & Red Pepper Gnocchi
• Adjusting the Spice Level
• The Versatility of Tomato & Red Pepper Gnocchi
• Looking for More Gnocchi Recipes?

Ingredient Breakdown

• Potato gnocchi: Soft and pillowy, this traditional Italian pasta serves as the perfect vehicle for the tomato and red pepper sauce.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: The base of the sauce, adding richness and depth of flavour.
• Sweet onion: Provides natural sweetness and a fragrant base for the sauce.
• Small carrot: Adds a subtle sweetness and texture to the sauce.
• Celery stalk: Offers an aromatic depth to balance the sweetness of the onion and carrot.
• Garlic cloves: A key ingredient that imparts a fragrant, savoury note to the sauce.
• Fresh baby plum tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, these tomatoes release juices to form a rich, tangy base.
• Sweet pointed peppers (red Romano peppers): Sweet and slightly smoky, these peppers add complexity and vibrancy to the sauce.
• Water: Helps to loosen the sauce and integrate the flavours of the vegetables and tomatoes.
• Sea salt & freshly-ground black pepper: Seasonings that elevate the flavours and bring all the elements together.
• Fresh basil: Fresh basil adds a fragrant, herbaceous finish that brightens the sauce.
• Grated Grana Padano or Parmigiano Reggiano (optional): A generous sprinkle of cheese for a savoury, creamy finish (optional for vegans or those following a dairy-free diet).

The Origins of Gnocchi

Gnocchi, often considered Italy’s answer to dumplings, is a beloved staple in many Italian kitchens. The word “gnocchi” itself comes from the Italian word for “lumps” or “knots”. Which makes sense when you see their characteristic pillowy, rounded shape. Traditionally, gnocchi is made from mashed potatoes, flour, and sometimes egg. However, variations can include ricotta, spinach, or even semolina.

The origins of gnocchi can be traced back to Roman times. Early versions were made with semolina flour and water, cooked into small, doughy pieces. Over time, as potatoes became more widely available in Italy, the recipe evolved into the soft, comforting gnocchi we know today. Each region in Italy has its take on gnocchi. Some use different ingredients or add special seasonings to give the dish a local twist.

In this Tomato & Red Pepper Gnocchi recipe, we embrace the traditional potato gnocchi and pair it with a rustic, vibrant sauce. While gnocchi is typically paired with a rich meat-based sauce, we’ve gone vegan, making this dish light yet deeply satisfying. Whether you’re serving it as a quick dinner or a holiday meal, the pillowy texture of gnocchi elevates the simple combination of tomato and red pepper sauce to a delightful comfort food experience.

The Health Benefits of Tomato & Red Pepper Gnocchi

Though Tomato & Red Pepper Gnocchi is a comforting, rich meal, it also packs in a variety of nutrients. The fresh vegetables, including tomatoes, red peppers, and onions, are full of vitamins and minerals that contribute to your overall health.

Tomatoes, for instance, are an excellent source of vitamin C. These are essential for immune health, skin repair, and collagen formation. They are also rich in lycopene. An antioxidant that has been linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease. 

Red peppers are another powerhouse, providing a high amount of vitamin A. This is crucial for eye health, as well as vitamin C, fibre, and antioxidants.

The addition of fresh basil adds not only flavour but also an anti-inflammatory punch. Meanwhile the gnocchi provides carbohydrates for energy, making this dish a well-rounded meal.

Adjusting the Spice Level

One of the beautiful things about Tomato & Red Pepper Gnocchi is its adaptability when it comes to heat. The recipe uses a gentle base of onions, carrots, and celery, with the sweet red peppers adding depth and richness. However, if you prefer a spicier kick, it’s easy to adjust the heat level to suit your tastes.

• For those who enjoy a mild spice, simply leave the dish as is. The red peppers contribute a subtle warmth without overwhelming the palate. 
• If you want to elevate the heat, you can add a chopped fresh chilli or a pinch of dried chilli flakes during the cooking process. Just be sure to taste the sauce as it simmers, adjusting the heat to your preference.
• Adding a dash of smoked paprika can also enhance the dish’s complexity. It brings a smoky flavour that complements the sweetness of the peppers and the tomatoes.

The Versatility of Tomato & Red Pepper Gnocchi

One of the best aspects of Tomato & Red Pepper Gnocchi is its incredible versatility. This dish is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and those avoiding dairy. However, if you’re not following a vegan diet, it can easily be adapted to suit other preferences.

For instance, if you’d like to add a creamy, cheesy element to the dish, a generous sprinkle of grated Grana Padano or Parmigiano Reggiano on top provides a lovely, salty finish. The cheese will melt slightly over the gnocchi. This will give each bite a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the tomato and red pepper sauce.

You can also experiment with other additions to enhance the dish. Roasted vegetables, like zucchini, aubergine, or mushrooms, can add depth and texture. If you want to add some protein to make the meal more filling, try tossing in some vegan meatballs or grilled tofu for an added savoury boost.

For those who are gluten intolerant or prefer a lighter option, consider using gluten-free gnocchi or even zucchini noodles (zoodles) as a base for the sauce.

Looking for More Gnocchi Recipes?

If you’ve enjoyed the gnocchi in this Tomato & Red Pepper Gnocchi, here are some more gnocchi-based recipes for you to try:

• Creamy Tomato Sausage Gnocchi: You can’t go wrong with gnocchi, sausage, parmesan and a creamy tomato sauce, it’s the epitome of comfort food.
• Cheesy Gnocchi Bake: This recipe combines soft, pillowy gnocchi with a rich tomato sauce and a generous layer of melted cheese, creating a meal that’s both hearty and indulgent. 

See how I make all these recipes and more over on my Instagram!