Wholesome White Bean Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi Delight

Introduction

Welcome to EatBrightly, where we transform simple ingredients into vibrant, nourishing meals. Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe close to my heart: White Bean Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi. This dish combines the creamy texture of white beans with the tangy burst of sun-dried tomatoes for a meal that’s as comforting as it is healthy. Perfect for a cozy evening or a special dinner, this gnocchi is both a feast for the taste buds and a nod to my culinary philosophy: food should nourish the body and soul.

Living in Asheville, North Carolina, I draw inspiration from the lush Appalachian landscape and the rich traditions of my upstate New York roots. This recipe is a reflection of my journey a blend of family traditions, self-taught techniques, and a passion for plant-based, colorful cooking. Let’s dive in and create something beautiful together!

What Makes This Recipe Special

Key Benefits

The White Bean Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi offers a delightful combination of flavors and nutrients. This dish is packed with plant-based protein from white beans, making it a hearty option for vegetarians and vegans. It’s also rich in fiber, which supports digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.

Plant-based meals like this gnocchi can be deeply nourishing when built with intention. Harvard Health explains that beans and legumes provide high-quality plant protein, along with fiber and minerals that support heart health, digestion, and long-term wellness.

Unique Features

This recipe stands out for its simplicity and versatility. The gnocchi can be prepared in advance and stored, making it perfect for meal prep. Moreover, the ingredients are accessible and can be found in most pantries, allowing you to whip up this gourmet meal on short notice.

Ingredients for White Bean Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked white beans (cannellini or navy beans)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Optional Add-ins

• 1/4 cup grated vegan Parmesan for additional flavor
• A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest for a citrusy note

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Start by draining and rinsing the white beans. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mash the beans with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
3. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, nutritional yeast, salt, and black pepper to the mashed beans and mix well.
4. Gradually incorporate the flour into the mixture, kneading gently until a dough forms. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky.

Cooking Process

1. On a floured surface, divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 1-inch in diameter.
2. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi. Use a fork to gently indent each piece, which helps the sauce adhere better.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi in batches, waiting until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer them to a plate with a slotted spoon.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic oil. Pour in the vegetable broth and let simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Stir in the fresh basil and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve garnished with optional add-ins like vegan Parmesan and red pepper flakes.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Results

Pro Chef Tips

To ensure your gnocchi are light and fluffy, avoid over-kneading the dough. Overworking can lead to dense gnocchi. Additionally, using a fork to create ridges on each piece helps the sauce cling better, enhancing flavor with every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is adding too much flour, which can make the gnocchi heavy. Add flour gradually until the dough holds together without sticking excessively. Furthermore, be cautious with boiling; if the water is too vigorous, the gnocchi may break apart.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Calories and Macros

This White Bean Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi is not only delicious but also nutritious. Per serving, you can expect approximately 350 calories, with 12g of protein, 60g of carbohydrates, and 8g of fat. The high protein and fiber content make it a satisfying meal that supports energy levels and digestive health.

Health Benefits

White beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, both of which are essential for maintaining a healthy diet. They also contain important minerals like iron and magnesium. Sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated source of antioxidants, including vitamins C and A, which are vital for immune health.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Dietary Modifications

For those with gluten sensitivities, the flour can be substituted with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Additionally, if you’re avoiding oil, you can sauté the garlic in a splash of vegetable broth instead.

Flavor Variations

To enhance the flavor profile, consider adding roasted red peppers or olives to the sauce. You can also experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme for a Mediterranean twist.

For a balanced pasta dish that’s quick enough for busy nights, my Chicken Sausage Pasta delivers lean protein, colorful vegetables, and big flavor in every bite perfect when you want something nourishing yet effortless.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

How to Store

Store any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

Serving Ideas

This gnocchi pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled vegetables or a chickpea salad. A glass of crisp white wine also complements the dish wonderfully.

If you’re craving a heartier comfort dish with bold Mediterranean flavor, my Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese is a cozy favorite. It combines tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and Tuscan-inspired ingredients for a deeply satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

If comforting, nourishing pasta dishes like this one are your go-to, explore my full collection of Healthy Pasta and Gnocchi Recipes. You’ll find balanced meals made with wholesome ingredients, thoughtful flavors, and joy at the center of every recipe.

Conclusion

Thank you for joining me on this culinary adventure into the world of White Bean Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi. This dish is a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients and a little creativity in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your journey, I hope this recipe brings joy, nourishment, and a splash of color to your table. Remember, cooking is about connection, creativity, and care so embrace the process and enjoy every delicious moment.

Until next time, keep cooking brightly and savoring the vibrant flavors of life!

Wholesome White Bean Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi Delight

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

A cozy, plant-based gnocchi dish combining creamy white beans and tangy sun-dried tomatoes for a vibrant, comforting meal.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Boil & Sauté
• Cuisine: Plant-Based
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked white beans (cannellini or navy beans)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated vegan Parmesan
• Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes
• Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Instructions

1. Drain and rinse the white beans, then pat dry.
2. Mash the beans in a large bowl until smooth.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes, nutritional yeast, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
4. Gradually add flour and knead gently until a dough forms. Add more flour if sticky.
5. Divide dough into four parts. Roll into ropes about 1-inch thick.
6. Cut into 1-inch pieces and indent gently with a fork.
7. Boil salted water and cook gnocchi in batches until they float (2-3 minutes). Remove with slotted spoon.
8. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
9. Add gnocchi to skillet, toss in garlic oil. Add broth and simmer for 2 minutes.
10. Stir in fresh basil. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve with optional toppings.

Notes

Avoid over-kneading to keep the gnocchi light. Don’t over-flour the dough. Use a gentle boil when cooking gnocchi to prevent breakage.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: white bean, sun-dried tomato, gnocchi, vegan, healthy dinner