Creamy Vegan Gnocchi with Garlic & Kale

olive oil (, use a few tablespoons of water for an oil-free option)

large cloves garlic (, chopped finely)

bunch kale (, NOT curly kale, the flatter leaf varieties are better for this recipe. I particularly like Lacatino Kale (sometimes known as Cavolo Nero or Dino Kale))

/ ½ cup raw cashew pieces (, soaked in boiling water for 10 minutes if you don't have a high powered blender *see recipe notes for a nut-free option)

mls / ½ cup water

x 500g package gnocchi (, most are vegan but be sure to check the ingredients label just in case. Gluten-free varieties are also available. Again be sure to check labels. )

salt (, plus more to taste)

freshly ground black pepper (, to taste)

chili flakes (, OPTIONAL)