Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that screams autumn? Look no further! This Pumpkin Gnocchi Trader Joe's recipe is the perfect blend of easy preparation, delicious taste, and seasonal flair. Using the readily available and fantastic pumpkin gnocchi from Trader Joe's, we'll elevate this simple dish into a restaurant-worthy experience in minutes. It's a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, and healthy enough to feel good about enjoying it! This recipe showcases homemade cooking with minimal effort, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 package (16 oz) Trader Joe's Pumpkin Gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a vegan option)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh sage leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the delicious base flavor of your sauce.
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Simmer the sauce: Add the diced tomatoes (undrained) and vegetable broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. This creates a rich and flavorful tomato base perfect for coating the gnocchi.
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Add cream and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast). Season with red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Reduce heat to low and simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Cook the gnocchi: While the sauce simmers, cook the pumpkin gnocchi according to package directions. Usually, this involves boiling them until they float to the surface. Don't overcook; you want them to be tender but still hold their shape.
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Combine and serve: Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh sage leaves (optional).
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use homemade vegetable broth.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it uncovered for a longer period.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, to the sauce.
- Don't overcook the gnocchi, or they'll become mushy.
Variations:
- Spicy Pumpkin Gnocchi: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Creamy Pesto Pumpkin Gnocchi: Stir in 1/4 cup of pesto along with the cream for a vibrant, herbaceous twist.
- Sausage Pumpkin Gnocchi: Brown 1/2 pound of Italian sausage before adding the onions and garlic for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Nutritional information will vary based on specific ingredients used (e.g., type of cream, cheese substitute). The following is an estimate and should be considered a guideline:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This Pumpkin Gnocchi Trader Joe's recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of autumn. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly satisfying and flavorful dish. Enjoy this comforting and healthy meal!