Healthy Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Gnocchi soup is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug for the soul. Whether it’s a chilly day, a busy week, or you’re just craving something cozy, this soup has everything you need. Soft, pillowy gnocchi combined with flavorful broth, fresh veggies, and a medley of herbs creates a dish that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.

Not only is it comforting, but gnocchi soup is a perfect balance of hearty and healthy. You get that rich, filling feeling from the gnocchi, but the vegetables, herbs, and lighter broth keep it from being too heavy. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds, making it ideal for lunch, dinner, or a special weekend meal.

In this guide, I’m going to walk you through a healthy gnocchi soup recipe that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. We’ll talk about the ingredients you’ll need, step-by-step cooking instructions, and some tips and variations you can try to make it your own. Let’s dive right in!

This healthy gnocchi soup recipe is packed with flavor, light on calories, and full of nutrients. It’s all about creating that perfect balance between the pillowy gnocchi and a savory, aromatic broth, with fresh vegetables and a hint of herbs to elevate the taste.

Here’s how you can make this soup, which serves 4:

Ingredients Needed

1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the vegetables.
1 small onion, finely chopped – adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
2 garlic cloves, minced – garlic gives the soup a wonderful aromatic foundation.
2 medium carrots, sliced – carrots add a slight sweetness and crunch.
2 celery stalks, chopped – for that signature vegetable base flavor.
1 zucchini, diced – a fresh, tender addition that’s packed with moisture.
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth – the base of your soup, keeping it light but flavorful.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – adds acidity and depth to the broth.
1 package (about 16 oz) fresh or frozen gnocchi – the star of the show; soft, pillowy, and perfect for soup.
2 cups baby spinach – for a pop of color and nutrition.
1 teaspoon dried oregano – adds a bit of herbaceous depth.
Salt and pepper to taste – for seasoning.
Optional toppings: Fresh grated Parmesan or vegan cheese, fresh basil, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Cooking Instructions

Sauté The Vegetables

Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and aromatic.
Add The Carrots, Celery, And Zucchini

Toss the carrots, celery, and zucchini into the pot and stir. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the veggies soften a bit, letting their flavors meld together.
Pour In The Broth And Tomatoes

Add the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes, including the juice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes. The vegetables should be tender and the flavors nicely combined.
Cook The Gnocchi

Drop the gnocchi into the soup. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the gnocchi rise to the top. This is a sign that they’re done! Make sure you stir the soup gently so they don’t stick to the bottom.
Add Spinach And Season

Stir in the spinach and oregano. Let it wilt and incorporate into the soup for about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want to amp up the flavor, a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of red pepper flakes adds a delightful twist.
Serve And Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls. If you like, top it off with some grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately while hot.

Ingredient Insights

Gnocchi: The gnocchi are the heart of this dish. You can choose between fresh or frozen gnocchi depending on what you have available. They’re soft little dumplings made from potatoes, which give them that wonderful pillowy texture. If you want to make this soup even lighter, you can opt for gluten-free gnocchi or vegetable-based ones like cauliflower gnocchi, which are growing in popularity.
Vegetable Broth: Using low-sodium vegetable broth helps control the salt content in the soup. The broth is the flavor base, so go for one that’s rich and well-seasoned. Homemade broth can take it to the next level, but store-bought works just fine when you’re short on time.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutritional value. It’s a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a great choice to sneak into your soup. Plus, it wilts down beautifully and blends in well with the other ingredients without overpowering the flavor.
Diced Tomatoes: These lend acidity and slight sweetness to the soup, balancing out the richness of the gnocchi and broth. Canned tomatoes are a convenient option, but you can also use fresh tomatoes if you have them on hand.

Expert Tips

Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Gnocchi only takes about 3-4 minutes to cook once they’ve floated to the top. Overcooking them can make them too mushy and lose that perfect texture. Keep an eye on them!
Add Protein: If you’d like to make this soup a bit heartier, consider adding a protein source like chickpeas, lentils, or shredded chicken. This not only makes the soup more filling but also adds an extra boost of nutrients.
Herbs Make a Difference: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can take this soup from good to great. If you have fresh herbs on hand, try using those instead of dried, but remember to adjust the quantities.
Meal Prep-Friendly: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it (without the gnocchi) for up to 3 months. When reheating, add fresh gnocchi to the soup to ensure it doesn’t get mushy.

Recipe Variations

Dairy-Free: Skip the Parmesan topping or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep this soup completely plant-based.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like kale, bell peppers, or even a potato for extra heartiness. The beauty of this soup is how adaptable it is to what you have in your fridge.
Spicy Kick: For those who like it hot, add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. It’ll give the soup a subtle spicy undertone that pairs beautifully with the gnocchi.
Lemon Zest: If you want to brighten up the soup, a little lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end adds a tangy lift that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy gnocchi.

Final Words

Making this healthy gnocchi soup is an easy way to enjoy a comforting yet nourishing meal without sacrificing flavor. The combination of vegetables, a rich broth, and pillowy gnocchi creates a bowl of pure comfort that can be enjoyed year-round. Plus, it’s super customizable! Whether you prefer a lighter broth or a heartier addition like chicken, there are so many ways to make this soup your own.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting but still health-conscious, give this recipe a try. It’s simple, nutritious, and packed with delicious flavors that’ll make you want to come back for seconds.

Healthy Gnocchi Soup Recipe