β¨ Can a Vegan Soup Be Creamy Without Cream?
What if you could enjoy a rich, creamy gnocchi soup that feels indulgent β but is completely dairy-free and packed with plant-based protein?
This Vegan Chickpea Gnocchi Soup combines tender potato gnocchi, hearty chickpeas, aromatic herbs, and a silky coconut-based broth to create the ultimate comfort bowl. Itβs filling, nourishing, and perfect for chilly evenings or meal prep.
If you love cozy soups but want something plant-based and protein-rich, this oneβs for you.
π Ingredients
π₯ Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
πΏ Flavor Builders
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Β½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- Β½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt & black pepper to taste
π₯£ Hearty Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
- 1 cup fresh spinach
β¨ Optional:
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- Lemon juice for brightness
β± Timing
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep | 10 minutes |
| Cook | 20β25 minutes |
| Total | ~30β35 minutes |
Fast enough for weeknight comfort.
π©βπ³ Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: SautΓ© Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery.
Cook 5β6 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Step 2: Add Herbs & Chickpeas
Stir in thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add chickpeas and vegetable broth.
Bring to gentle boil.
Step 3: Add Gnocchi
Add gnocchi directly into soup.
Cook according to package directions (usually 3β5 minutes).
Theyβll float when done.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Stir in coconut milk.
Simmer 2β3 minutes.
Add spinach and cook until wilted.
Optional: Stir in nutritional yeast.
Finish with squeeze of lemon juice.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Ladle into bowls.
Top with fresh parsley or cracked black pepper.
Serve immediately.
πͺ Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400β450
- Protein: 14β18g
- Fiber: 8β10g
- Cholesterol-free
- Rich in plant-based iron
Chickpeas add protein and fiber, while coconut milk creates creamy texture without dairy.
πΏ Customization Ideas
πΉ Higher Protein
Add white beans or tofu cubes.
πΉ Lower Fat
Use light coconut milk.
πΉ Extra Veggies
Add mushrooms or zucchini.
πΉ Gluten-Free
Use gluten-free gnocchi.
πΉ Spicy Kick
Add red pepper flakes.
Flexible and comforting.
π½ Serving Suggestions
Pair Vegan Chickpea Gnocchi Soup with:
- Crusty bread
- Garlic toast
- Simple green salad
- Roasted vegetables
Itβs hearty enough to be a full meal.
β οΈ Common Mistakes to Avoid
β Overcooking gnocchi
β Boiling after adding coconut milk
β Under-seasoning
β Skipping sautΓ© step
β Adding spinach too early
Gentle simmer keeps texture perfect.
π§ Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Store up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze without gnocchi if possible (they soften).
Reheat
Warm gently; add splash of broth if thickened.
Flavors deepen overnight.
π€ Final Thoughts
Vegan Chickpea Gnocchi Soup is creamy, cozy, and packed with plant-powered goodness. With tender gnocchi, hearty chickpeas, and a silky dairy-free broth, itβs comfort food made wholesome. Try it tonight, leave a comment with your favorite add-ins, and subscribe for more cozy vegan recipes!
π² Creamy. Hearty. Pure plant-based comfort. π±
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