There’s nothing quite like the feeling of a satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes, right? My 30-Minute Creamy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi is a delightful twist on a classic Italian favorite that’s sure to become your weeknight superstar. This dish combines tender potato dumplings with a luxuriously creamy sauce, effortlessly merging smoky flavors from the salmon with fresh, vibrant herbs. Not only is it a joy to prepare, but it also makes for a family-friendly feast that’s perfect for busy days when you crave homemade goodness. What’s even better? The leftovers reheat beautifully for a quick lunch that feels gourmet! Are you ready to dive into this creamy delight and impress everyone at your dinner table?
Why Is Smoked Salmon Gnocchi a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this gourmet meal. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Indulgent Creaminess: The creamy sauce, made with cream cheese, coats each gnocchi beautifully, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying.
Flavor Fusion: Smoky salmon and fresh herbs create a delightful contrast, making this dish irresistibly delicious.
Versatile Options: Don’t hesitate to customize! Swap out the salmon for shrimp or chicken, or try different greens like arugula for a fresh twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is family-friendly and is sure to impress your guests. Why not pair it with a refreshing arugula salad for a complete meal?
Leftover Perfection: It reheats like a dream! Enjoy a luxurious lunch the next day with minimal effort, bringing gourmet flavors to your midweek routine.
Dive into making Salmon Sushi Bake for another salmon option or explore Crack Chicken Gnocchi for a twist on comfort food.
Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Ingredients
For the Gnocchi
• Gnocchi – A soft, pillowy base; opt for store-bought for a quick meal.
• Smoked Salmon – Provides a rich, smoky depth; choose high-quality hot smoked salmon for the best flavor.
For the Creamy Sauce
• Cream Cheese – Creates a smooth, creamy texture; bring to room temperature for easy mixing.
• Shallot – Adds sweetness; substitute with onion if needed.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances the flavor; garlic powder works in a pinch.
• Red Chili Flakes – Offers a touch of heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
• White Wine – Deglazes the pan for added complexity; swap for vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic option.
• Spinach – Adds freshness and color; feel free to replace with other greens like kale or arugula.
• Italian Seasoning – Boosts flavor; fresh herbs can lend an even fresher taste.
• Olive Oil – Used for sautéing; unsalted butter can provide a richer taste.
Cooking Essentials
• Pasta Water – Reserve some for adjusting sauce consistency; it’s packed with starch that helps bind the sauce.
This Smoked Salmon Gnocchi is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary embrace, a warm hug of flavors and textures that come together beautifully in your kitchen. Enjoy the luxury of homemade comfort food with every bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smoked Salmon Gnocchi
Step 1: Sauté Shallots
In a large sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add 1 finely chopped shallot and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Stir occasionally to avoid browning, preparing a flavorful base for your creamy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices
Introduce 2 minced garlic cloves and a pinch of red chili flakes to the pan, cooking for another minute until aromatic. Watch for the garlic to soften but not brown, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. This step enhances the depth of the sauce, leading to a delightful creamy experience.
Step 3: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in ½ cup of white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping any flavorful bits off the bottom. Allow the mixture to simmer and reduce for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. This will enrich your sauce, perfectly complementing the smoked salmon in your dish.
Step 4: Cook Gnocchi
Meanwhile, bring a separate pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 1 package of gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, typically about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Once they rise, they’re done—be sure to drain them well!
Step 5: Combine Spinach and Seasoning
Return the drained gnocchi to the sauté pan with the aromatics. Add 1 cup of fresh spinach and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning. Stir gently for about 2-3 minutes, letting the spinach wilt and blend its vibrant color into the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Incorporate Cream Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and add 4 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese, stirring until it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. The cream cheese will beautifully coat the gnocchi, creating a rich texture that perfectly complements the smokiness of the salmon.
Step 7: Mix in Smoked Salmon
Gently fold in 4-6 ounces of chopped smoked salmon into the pan, mixing carefully to maintain the salmon’s delicate texture. Warm through for just a minute, allowing the flavors to meld without cooking the salmon too much. This final touch elevates your creamy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi to gourmet status.
Step 8: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Once everything is combined, taste and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt, black pepper, or additional red chili flakes according to your preference. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency before serving.
What to Serve with Smoked Salmon Gnocchi
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that balance and enhance the creamy goodness of your gnocchi.
- Arugula Salad: A fresh and peppery salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette perfectly contrasts the rich creaminess of the dish.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch, allowing you to mop up the delicious sauce.
- Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus adds a delightful crunch and lightness, bringing vibrant color and flavor to your plate.
- Chardonnay: The bright acidity of a chilled Chardonnay complements the smoky flavors of the salmon, enhancing each bite of your gnocchi.
- Bruschetta: A refreshing starter with tomatoes and basil, this classic Italian appetizer awakens the palate before indulging in the gnocchi.
- Cheesy Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy bites add a savory, umami-packed flavor that beautifully contrasts the creamy texture of the gnocchi.
- Tiramisu: End the meal with this classic Italian dessert, offering a sweet, creamy finish to balance your savory main course.
- Peach Iced Tea: Refreshingly light and sweet, it serves as a delightful drink that cools the palate between bites.
How to Store and Freeze Smoked Salmon Gnocchi
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, but you can loosen it with a splash of cream when reheating.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the dish, it’s best to do so without the smoked salmon. Store the gnocchi and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat the sauce on low heat to maintain creaminess, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the creamy sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just warm it up before mixing with freshly cooked gnocchi and smoked salmon for a quick meal.
Expert Tips for Smoked Salmon Gnocchi
Timing Is Key: Ensure you add the smoked salmon just at the end of cooking. This prevents it from overcooking, retaining its delicate texture.
Gnocchi Cooking: To avoid mushy gnocchi, watch for them to float and drain them immediately. Overcooking can lead to a soggy mess!
Cream Cheese Consistency: Bring cream cheese to room temperature for easier incorporation into the sauce. Cold cream cheese can create lumpy sauce.
Sauce Adjustments: Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. This starchy water can help make your creamy sauce silky.
Try Different Greens: Feel free to experiment! Spinach can be swapped with arugula or kale for different flavors and textures in your smoked salmon gnocchi.
Reheat Wisely: When reheating leftovers, do so on low heat to avoid toughening the salmon and separating the sauce. Enjoy gourmet leftovers!
Make Ahead Options
These Smoked Salmon Gnocchi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy sauce, including the sautéed shallots, garlic, and other ingredients, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture. You can also chop the smoked salmon and spinach ahead of time, keeping them separate until you’re ready to cook. When you’re set to serve, just reheat the sauce over low heat, add the cooked gnocchi (which only takes about 2-3 minutes to prepare), and gently fold in the salmon and spinach until warmed through. By prepping this dish ahead, you’ll enjoy quick, gourmet meals with minimal effort during busy weeknights!
Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Variations
Explore the endless possibilities of flavors and textures by customizing your Smoked Salmon Gnocchi to fit your cravings!
- Protein Swap: Replace smoked salmon with sautéed shrimp or cooked chicken for a different protein twist.
- Herb Change: Use fresh dill instead of Italian seasoning to infuse a vibrant herbal flavor into the dish.
- Pasta Alternative: Swap gnocchi for another type of pasta, like penne or fettuccine, for a familiar favorite.
- Veggie Boost: Add in cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of acidity and sweetness amidst the creaminess.
- Spice Up: For a fiery kick, include additional red chili flakes or even a splash of sriracha to the creamy sauce.
- Nutty Flavor: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch to complement the soft texture of the gnocchi.
- Creamy Variation: Try using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a tangy and lower-calorie version of the sauce.
- Savory Depth: Incorporate a tablespoon of capers or olives for a briny flavor that brightens the entire dish.
As you embark on your culinary journey, consider whipping up a delicious Salmon Sushi Bake or try the flavorful Crack Chicken Gnocchi for more inspiration! Enjoy the comfort of home-cooked meals with a twist!
Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Recipe FAQs
What type of gnocchi should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using store-bought gnocchi for a quick and easy meal, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade gnocchi can give your dish a personal touch and enhance the overall flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover Smoky Salmon Gnocchi?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the sauce thickens, simply add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to achieve that creamy consistency again!
Can I freeze the Smoked Salmon Gnocchi?
Absolutely! To freeze, store the gnocchi and sauce separately without the smoked salmon in airtight containers. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat the sauce on low heat to avoid separation.
Why does my cream cheese sauce look lumpy?
To prevent lumps, make sure to bring the cream cheese to room temperature before adding it to your sauce. This helps it incorporate smoothly. If you encounter lumps, simply whisk vigorously until you achieve a creamy texture.
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Yes! You can swap the smoked salmon for sautéed shrimp or chicken for a different protein. Fresh dill makes a lovely alternative to Italian seasoning, and feel free to use other leafy greens like arugula or kale if spinach isn’t available.
Is this dish pet-friendly?
It’s best to keep this dish away from pets. The ingredients, especially the cream cheese and garlic, are not suitable for dogs or cats. Always double-check what’s safe for your furry friends!
Creamy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Ready in Under 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped shallot and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Introduce 2 minced garlic cloves and a pinch of red chili flakes to the pan, cooking for another minute.
- Pour in ½ cup of white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping any flavorful bits off the bottom. Allow to simmer and reduce for about 2-3 minutes.
- Meanwhile, bring a separate pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 1 package of gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, typically about 2-3 minutes.
- Return the drained gnocchi to the sauté pan with the aromatics. Add 1 cup of fresh spinach and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning.
- Reduce heat to low and add 4 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese, stirring until it melts into a smooth sauce.
- Gently fold in 4-6 ounces of chopped smoked salmon, mixing carefully.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt, black pepper, or additional red chili flakes.
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