Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add all the aromatics and saute for 1 – 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, to release their aroma.
Add the sun dried tomato, tomato paste, vegetables, and saute for 30 – 40 seconds. Slowly pour in the vegetable stock, stirring constantly.
Reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavours to meld and the broth to thicken slightly.
Carefully add the potato gnocchi to the simmering soup. Cook for 10 minutes covered or until the gnocchi float to the surface, indicating they are cooked through and tender.
Reduce the heat to lowest setting. Stir in the cooking cream, spinach and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix and simmer soup for 2 – 3 minutes over low heat. Turn off the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Serve gnocchi soup with crusty Italian bread, garlic knots, or a focaccia.