Savory Butternut Squash Gnocchi (Print Version)

A comforting blend of gnocchi, butternut squash, and herbs in a savory broth, ideal for warming meals.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 medium butternut squash (4.4 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 medium carrots, diced
05 - 2 celery stalks, diced
06 - 2 cups baby spinach (optional)

→ Gnocchi

07 - 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)

→ Broth & Seasonings

08 - 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
09 - 1 tbsp olive oil
10 - 1 tsp dried thyme
11 - 1 tsp dried sage
12 - 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
13 - 1/2 tsp salt, adjust to taste
14 - Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

→ Garnishes

15 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese or vegetarian alternative
16 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

# Method:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add cubed butternut squash, dried thyme, dried sage, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to evenly coat vegetables with spices.
04 - Pour in vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes until the squash is tender.
05 - Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup in the pot, leaving some texture. Alternatively, blend half the soup and return it to the pot.
06 - Add gnocchi to the pot and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the gnocchi float to the surface and are cooked through.
07 - Stir in baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
08 - Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed.
09 - Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Pillowy gnocchi provides a comforting texture
  • Velvety butternut squash adds natural sweetness
02 -
  • Using low-sodium broth allows better control of salt levels
  • Pressure blending half the soup creates a creamy texture without cream
03 -
  • Partially blending the soup creates a smooth yet textured base
  • Add greens last to prevent overcooking
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