This delicious recipe combines the fluffy texture of gnocchi with the rich flavors of cauliflower and sun-dried tomatoes. The creamy tomato sauce gives a wonderful depth to the dish, and the addition of aromatic herbs adds a burst of freshness. This is a perfect dish for any time of year, and it's sure to impress your friends and family.
Photos of Cauliflower Gnocchi with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe
Most of the ingredients for this recipe should be fairly easy to find in your local supermarket. However, cauliflower gnocchi might not be as readily available. Look for it in the pasta or frozen vegetable section of your store. Sun-dried tomatoes are usually found either with canned tomatoes or in the produce section near the fresh tomatoes. If you can't find half-and-half, you can make it by combining equal parts of whole milk and heavy cream.
Ingredients for Cauliflower Gnocchi with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
Cauliflower gnocchi: A combination of mashed cauliflower and flour, these gnocchi have a unique flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sauces.
Olive oil: Used to sauté the shallots and garlic, and to help emulsify the sauce.
Shallots: These add a sweet, mild onion flavor to the sauce.
Garlic: A powerful flavor enhancer, garlic adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
Sun dried tomatoes: These give the sauce a tangy, concentrated tomato flavor.
Vegetable stock: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
Half-and-half: Gives the sauce a creamy, indulgent texture.
Sea salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Oregano: Adds an earthy, slightly bitter flavor to the sauce.
Basil: Provides a sweet, slightly peppery flavor.
Black pepper: Adds a slight heat to the sauce.
Pecorino romano cheese: A hard, salty Italian cheese, this is used to garnish the dish and add an extra layer of flavor.
One reader, Glenn Mcneal says:
This cauliflower gnocchi with creamy sun-dried tomato sauce recipe is a game-changer! The gnocchi is light and fluffy, and the sauce is incredibly flavorful. The sun-dried tomatoes add a delightful tanginess, and the creamy texture is just perfect. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional gnocchi.
Key Techniques for Making Cauliflower Gnocchi with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
How to make the sauce: This involves sautéing shallots and garlic, adding sun-dried tomatoes, vegetable stock, and half-and-half, then simmering until the sauce thickens.
How to cook the gnocchi: This involves boiling the gnocchi in lightly salted water until they float to the surface, then draining and transferring them to the skillet with the sauce.
How to serve: This involves seasoning the gnocchi with black pepper and topping them with sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, basil, and pecorino romano cheese before serving.
How To Make Cauliflower Gnocchi with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe
Unlike the usual carb-loaded recipes, this cauliflower gnocchi is healthier. It’s also served with a rich tomato sauce that gives this dish a rustic flair.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1batchcauliflower gnocchi,See recipe notes for recipe
- 1tbspolive oil
- ¼cupshallots,finely chopped
- 1tbspminced garlic
- ⅔cupsun-dried tomatoes,julienned, oil drained
- ½cupunsalted vegetable stock
- 1cuphalf-and-half
- ½tspsea salt
- 1½tspfresh oregano,plus more for garnish
- 1½tbspbasil,roughly chopped, plus more for garnish
- Black pepper for garnish
- ¼cupPecorino Romano cheese,shaved
Instructions
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Bring a medium pot of lightly salted water to a boil. While this comes to a boil, make the sauce.
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Heat a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add in shallots and garlic, sauté until fragrant and shallots are softened.
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Add in half a cup of the sun-dried tomatoes, and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in the vegetable stock, half-and-half, and sea salt. Stir to combine.
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Turn heat to medium-high. Simmer and stir occasionally until the sauce reduces and thickens.
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Carefully add the gnocchi to the boiling water and cook until they float to the surface. Use a slotted spoon to drain the gnocchi and transfer directly to the skillet with the sauce.
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Stir the cooked gnocchi, oregano, and basil into the sauce. If needed, continue to simmer and the sauce for a few additional minutes until it coats the gnocchi.
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Season gnocchi with black pepper, and top with the remaining sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, basil, and Pecorino Romano cheese.
Nutrition
- Calories: 689.23kcal
- Fat: 27.59g
- Saturated Fat: 13.02g
- Trans Fat: 0.00g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10.36g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.58g
- Carbohydrates: 91.01g
- Fiber: 8.65g
- Sugar: 15.22g
- Protein: 22.67g
- Cholesterol: 105.74mg
- Sodium: 1102.06mg
- Calcium: 395.86mg
- Potassium: 1657.46mg
- Iron: 6.63mg
- Vitamin A: 168.21µg
- Vitamin C: 43.17mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Cauliflower Gnocchi
When making the cauliflower gnocchi, it's important to not overcrowd the pot. Adding too many at once can lower the water temperature and cause the gnocchi to stick together. Instead, cook them in batches to ensure they cook evenly and maintain their shape. Also, when sautéing the shallots and garlic, keep the heat at medium-low to prevent them from burning and developing a bitter taste. This will ensure your creamy sun-dried tomato sauce has a smooth, rich flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Gnocchi Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Multitask: While the sauce simmers, cook the gnocchi to save time and ensure everything is ready at the same time.
Use store-bought: Consider using store-bought cauliflower gnocchi to skip the step of making it from scratch.
One-pot cooking: Opt for a large skillet or pot to cook the gnocchi and sauce together, reducing the number of dishes to clean.
Leftovers for later: Make extra and store the leftovers for a quick and convenient meal later in the week.
Efficient workspace: Keep your workspace organized and clean as you cook to avoid unnecessary clutter and save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Cauliflower Gnocchi with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe
cauliflower gnocchi - Substitute with potato gnocchi: Potato gnocchi can provide a similar texture and flavor to cauliflower gnocchi, and it will work well with the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce.
shallots - Substitute with onions: Onions can be used as a substitute for shallots to provide a similar flavor profile and aroma to the dish.
half-and-half - Substitute with whole milk and heavy cream mix: A combination of whole milk and heavy cream can replicate the richness and creaminess of half-and-half in the sauce.
pecorino romano cheese - Substitute with parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese can be used as a substitute for pecorino romano to add a similar salty and nutty flavor to the dish.
How to Beautifully Present Cauliflower Gnocchi
Elevate the plating: When presenting the cauliflower gnocchi, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use a large, white, or neutral-colored plate to allow the vibrant colors of the sun-dried tomatoes and herbs to pop. Arrange the gnocchi in a neat pile or in a line, and drizzle the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce artistically around the gnocchi.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of freshly chopped oregano. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a textural element to the dish to provide contrast. A light sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs over the gnocchi can add a delightful crunch and elevate the overall dining experience.
Emphasize precision: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate. Ensure that the gnocchi are evenly portioned and the sauce is delicately drizzled. Precision in plating demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to breathe. Avoid overcrowding the plate and let the cauliflower gnocchi with creamy sun-dried tomato sauce take center stage, creating a visually appealing and balanced presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Cauliflower Gnocchi with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
Food processor: A food processor is essential for making the cauliflower gnocchi. It will help in blending the cauliflower into a rice-like texture, which is crucial for the gnocchi dough.
Sauté pan: A sauté pan is used to cook the shallots, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes for the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. It provides a wide surface area for even cooking.
Slotted spoon: A slotted spoon is necessary for draining the cooked gnocchi from the boiling water and transferring them directly to the skillet with the sauce. It allows excess water to drain away while retaining the gnocchi.
Storing and Freezing Cauliflower Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
- To store leftover cauliflower gnocchi with creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When reheating refrigerated leftovers, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the cauliflower gnocchi with creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Transfer the cooled dish to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container with the date and contents.
- Freeze the cauliflower gnocchi with sauce for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen gnocchi overnight in the refrigerator.
- To reheat frozen and thawed cauliflower gnocchi, place the desired portion in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir gently and frequently until heated through, adding a splash of vegetable stock or half-and-half if needed to restore the creamy consistency of the sauce.
- Note: The texture of the cauliflower gnocchi may change slightly after freezing and thawing, becoming softer than when freshly prepared. However, the dish will still be flavorful and enjoyable.
How To Reheat Leftover Cauliflower Gnocchi
- To reheat leftover cauliflower gnocchi with creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, start by transferring the desired portion into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the gnocchi from drying out during the reheating process.
- Microwave the gnocchi on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring gently between each interval to ensure even heating. Continue this process until the gnocchi and sauce are heated through and steaming. This method is quick and convenient, making it ideal for busy weekdays or when you're short on time.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the gnocchi on the stovetop for a more even heating and to restore some of the sauce's original texture. Transfer the leftover gnocchi and sauce to a non-stick skillet or saucepan, and add a splash of vegetable stock or water to help loosen the sauce.
- Heat the gnocchi and sauce over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and the sauce is bubbling. If the sauce appears too thick, add more liquid (stock or water) as needed to achieve the desired consistency. This stovetop method allows you to adjust the sauce and ensures the gnocchi are evenly heated.
- For a crispy texture, you can opt to reheat the gnocchi in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the leftover gnocchi and sauce in a baking dish, ensuring the gnocchi are in a single layer. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the sauce from drying out.
- Bake the gnocchi in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes to allow the top of the gnocchi to crisp up slightly. This method is perfect when you want to reheat a larger portion or if you prefer a firmer texture for your gnocchi.
- Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to taste the gnocchi and sauce before serving, adjusting the seasoning if necessary. If desired, garnish the reheated dish with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of pecorino romano cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil to refresh the flavors and add a touch of elegance to your leftover meal.
Interesting Fact About Cauliflower Gnocchi
The cauliflower gnocchi with creamy sun-dried tomato sauce recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional gnocchi. It's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying a classic Italian dish. Plus, cauliflower is packed with nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, making it a nutritious choice. So, next time you're craving gnocchi, consider trying this cauliflower version for a tasty and nutritious meal.
Is Making Cauliflower Gnocchi at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this cauliflower gnocchi with creamy sun-dried tomato sauce recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients. While cauliflower and sun-dried tomatoes can be pricier, the overall cost is balanced by the use of basic pantry items. The dish offers a delightful twist on traditional gnocchi, making it a worthy addition to any household menu. Rating: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4: $15-20.
Is This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi Healthy or Unhealthy?
The cauliflower gnocchi with creamy sun-dried tomato sauce recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional gnocchi, as it uses cauliflower as the base instead of potatoes. Cauliflower is a nutrient-dense vegetable, low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The sun-dried tomatoes provide a good source of antioxidants and vitamin C. However, the recipe also includes half-and-half and pecorino romano cheese, which are high in saturated fat and calories. While the recipe does incorporate some healthy ingredients, the overall dish may not be considered entirely healthy due to the presence of these high-fat dairy products.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the half-and-half with a lower-fat alternative, such as unsweetened almond milk or light coconut milk
- Reduce the amount of pecorino romano cheese or opt for a lower-fat cheese like parmesan
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish by adding spinach, kale, or roasted red peppers to the sauce
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free flour for the gnocchi to increase the fiber content
- Serve the gnocchi with a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the meal and add more nutrients
Editor's Opinion on Cauliflower Gnocchi with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
This cauliflower gnocchi with creamy sun-dried tomato sauce recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy sauce, infused with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, perfectly complements the light and pillowy gnocchi. The use of fresh herbs and pecorino romano cheese adds a burst of freshness and depth to the dish. The recipe is well-balanced and offers a satisfying and comforting dining experience. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side. Overall, it's a wonderful addition to any culinary repertoire.
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Why trust this Cauliflower Gnocchi with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional gnocchi, using cauliflower as the base for a lighter, gluten-free alternative. The creamy sun-dried tomato sauce adds a burst of rich flavor, complemented by the aromatic blend of oregano and basil. The use of pecorino romano cheese provides a savory finish, enhancing the overall taste. With a balance of textures and flavors, this dish promises a satisfying and wholesome dining experience.
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