Gnocchi Skillet with Creamy Spinach and Tomato Sauce Veggie Sausage Delight

Backstory: This recipe brings together the tender pillows of gnocchi with a creamy, luscious sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy meal, easily adaptable to cater for both vegetarian and meat preferences!

Ingredients:

• For the Gnocchi:

  • 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or a plant-based cream)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 3 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
  • Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

• For the Sausage Option:

  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casing removed (mild or spicy, based on your preference)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook the Gnocchi:

   • In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. This usually takes just a couple of minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

3. Add Sausage (if using):

   • If you’re making the meat option, add the sausage to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (around 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if necessary.

4. Stir in Tomatoes and Cream:

   • Pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with their juices and add the heavy cream.
   • Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, until slightly thickened.

5. Combine Gnocchi and Spinach:

   • Stir in the cooked gnocchi and fresh spinach, mixing well until the spinach wilts and everything is combined.
   • If you’re making only the vegetarian version, simply skip the sausage step and follow the same cooking process with just the gnocchi and sauce.

6. Serve: