Why You’ll Love Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Recipe
This recipe combines convenience with gourmet flavor. The pillowy gnocchi cook quickly and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully, while the smoked salmon adds depth and a delicate savory touch. It’s a one-pan friendly dish that minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor. The ingredients are easy to find, the steps are straightforward, and the final result tastes like something you’d order at a cozy Italian bistro. Best of all, it comes together in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
olive oil
shallot, finely chopped
garlic cloves, minced
crushed red chili flakes (optional)
dry white wine
tomato paste
Italian seasoning
water or reserved gnocchi cooking water
fresh spinach
block-style cream cheese
potato gnocchi
hot smoked salmon, flaked
fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the cooking water, then drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the chopped shallot for 2–3 minutes until softened.
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Stir in the minced garlic and crushed red chili flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly reduced.
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Add the tomato paste and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine. Pour in a splash of reserved gnocchi water to help create a smooth base for the sauce.
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Stir in the cream cheese and continue mixing until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add more reserved water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
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Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
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Gently fold in the cooked gnocchi and flaked smoked salmon. Stir carefully to coat everything evenly without breaking the gnocchi.
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Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
You can customize this dish easily to suit your taste. Swap spinach for kale or arugula for a different green flavor. Add cherry tomatoes or green peas for a pop of color and sweetness. For a richer sauce, substitute mascarpone for cream cheese. If you prefer a lighter version, use light cream cheese and reduce the amount slightly. You can also replace smoked salmon with cooked fresh salmon or even grilled shrimp for a different seafood twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water, milk, or cream to loosen the sauce as it thickens in the fridge. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even heating. Freezing is possible, but the creamy sauce may change texture slightly after thawing.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, shelf-stable, refrigerated, or fresh gnocchi all work well in this recipe.
What type of smoked salmon is best?
Hot smoked salmon works best because it flakes easily and has a firmer texture that holds up in the sauce.
Can I make this dish without wine?
Yes, you can substitute the wine with vegetable or chicken broth and a small squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free gnocchi available at many grocery stores.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can chop the shallots and garlic ahead of time, but the dish is best cooked fresh for the creamiest texture.
How do I keep the sauce from becoming too thick?
Add small amounts of reserved gnocchi cooking water while stirring until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Mushrooms, zucchini, or asparagus make excellent additions.
What can I serve with smoked salmon gnocchi?
A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables pair nicely with the creamy richness of the dish.
How do I prevent overcooking the gnocchi?
Remove them from boiling water as soon as they float to the surface to keep them tender.
Can I use fresh salmon instead of smoked?
Yes, cook the fresh salmon separately, flake it, and fold it into the sauce at the end.
Conclusion
Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi is a simple yet sophisticated meal that delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. Creamy, savory, and perfectly balanced with tender gnocchi and flaky salmon, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
