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Calling all pasta lovers and vegan foodies! This Easy Vegan Gnocchi recipe is your gateway to creating soft, pillowy gnocchi without any animal products. Perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes, this recipe is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to reduce food waste.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can whip up a batch of gnocchi that rivals any traditional recipe. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying main course or a delightful side dish, this Easy Vegan Gnocchi recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Get ready to experience the magic of plant-based comfort food at its finest!

Difficulty: Easy

Time: 45 minutes

Easy Vegan Gnocchi Recipe

Easy Vegan Gnocchi Recipe Ingredients:

Making your own vegan gnocchi is surprisingly simple with these key ingredients:

For the Gnocchi Dough:
- Russet Potatoes (2 large potatoes) – These starchy potatoes are ideal for creating a light and fluffy gnocchi dough.
- All-Purpose Flour (1 cup, plus extra for dusting) – The flour helps bind the dough and creates the characteristic gnocchi texture.
- Nutritional Yeast (1/4 cup) – Adds a cheesy flavor and umami depth to the vegan gnocchi.
- Salt (1 teaspoon) – Seasoning is key!
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Adds moisture and richness to the dough.

Optional Ingredients:

Black Pepper (a pinch) – For a touch of extra flavor.
Ground Nutmeg (a pinch) – A subtle warming spice that complements the potato flavor (optional).

For Serving:

Your Favorite Vegan Sauce:** There are endless possibilities! Choose from a simple tomato sauce, creamy cashew sauce, or pesto for a flavorful base.
Fresh Herbs (optional, for garnish):** Chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or chives add a vibrant touch.

Easy Vegan Gnocchi Instructions:

Transforming potatoes into delicious gnocchi follows these easy steps:

Boil the Potatoes: Wash and pierce the potatoes with a fork a few times. Place them in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot over low heat for a couple of minutes to allow any excess moisture to evaporate.
Mash the Potatoes: While the potatoes are still hot, mash them thoroughly with a potato masher or use a ricer for an extra smooth texture.
Make the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, transfer the mashed potatoes. Add the nutritional yeast, salt, olive oil, and any optional seasonings like black pepper or nutmeg. Gently mix with a fork until just combined. Gradually add all-purpose flour, a little at a time, until a soft dough forms that is not sticky. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
Shape the Gnocchi: Lightly dust your work surface with more flour. Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a long rope about 1/2 inch thick. Using a knife or bench scraper, cut the rope into bite-sized gnocchi pieces.

Optional Shaping Techniques:

Gnocchi Board (optional): For a traditional shape, use a gnocchi board. Roll each gnocchi piece down the ridged side of the board to create indentations.
Fork Method (optional): For a simpler method, press each gnocchi piece against the tines of a fork to create ridges.

Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently drop the gnocchi, a few at a time, into the boiling water. The gnocchi will cook quickly. Once they float to the surface, cook for an additional minute or two. Remove the cooked gnocchi with a slotted spoon and drain well.
Serve and Enjoy: Toss the cooked gnocchi with your favorite vegan sauce. Garnish with fresh chopped herbs (optional) and serve immediately.

Easy Vegan Gnocchi Serving Suggestions:

These versatile vegan gnocchi can be enjoyed in many ways:

Main Course: Gnocchi served with a flavorful sauce is a satisfying vegetarian main course.
Light Lunch: Enjoy a smaller portion of gnocchi for a light and delicious lunch.
Part of a Larger Meal: Gnocchi can also be served as part of a larger vegetarian or vegan meal alongside roasted vegetables or a salad.
Get Creative: Feel free to experiment with different sauces and toppings to create your own unique gnocchi variations.

Why Easy Vegan Gnocchi Is a Great Leftover Recipe:

This Easy Vegan Gnocchi recipe shines when it comes to using leftovers! Here’s why:

Freezer-Friendly: Uncooked gnocchi can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply form the gnocchi as instructed, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze for a few hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, cook the frozen gnocchi directly in boiling water without thawing.
Versatile Leftovers: Cooked leftover gnocchi can be used in various ways. Reheat them in your favorite sauce, add them to soups or stews, or pan-fry them for a crispy exterior.
Meal Prep Potential: Make a large batch of gnocchi in advance and freeze half for later. This allows you to have a delicious and satisfying meal readily available whenever you need it.
Budget-Friendly: Making your own vegan gnocchi is a cost-effective way to enjoy this delicious dish. The ingredients are simple and readily available.
Reduces Food Waste: By using leftover cooked gnocchi in other recipes, you can avoid food waste and get creative in the kitchen.