There’s nothing quite like a cozy evening spent in the kitchen, and the moment I decided to try my hand at Creamy Salmon Gnocchi, everything changed. With a silky sauce that clings lovingly to pillowy gnocchi, this dish transforms a simple weeknight meal into a gourmet experience. The tender shallots and fragrant garlic dance in olive oil, creating an aromatic backdrop so tempting you can practically taste it.
In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this flavorful delight, making it perfect for those busy days when all you want is a comforting yet elegant plate of food. Whether you’re impressing guests or simply treating yourself, this creamy concoction marries the rich essence of hot smoked salmon with fresh spinach and the satisfying bite of gnocchi. Each mouthful is a symphony of flavors that might just convince you to trade in fast food for something far more enticing. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the magic of this quick, delicious recipe!
Why is Creamy Salmon Gnocchi so irresistible?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe is quick and easy, making it ideal for beginners or busy weeknights.
Rich, Silky Sauce: The combination of cream cheese and white wine creates a luxurious sauce that coats the gnocchi beautifully.
Flavor Explosion: Hot smoked salmon adds a burst of flavor, balanced by fresh spinach and aromatic shallots.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for a cozy dinner with friends or a romantic evening, it’s sure to impress anyone at the table!
Ready in Just 20 Minutes: With minimal prep and cook time, you can enjoy this gourmet dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
For more delightful dinner ideas, check out my guide on quick weeknight meals.
Creamy Salmon Gnocchi Ingredients
For the Sauce
• Olive oil – Adds richness and helps sauté the shallots.
• Medium shallot – Finely diced for a delicate onion flavor.
• Garlic cloves – Their fragrant aroma elevates the entire dish.
• Red chilli flakes – A pinch provides a delightful kick to the sauce.
• Dry white wine – Enhances the flavors; use something you’d enjoy drinking.
• Tomato paste – Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• Italian seasoning mix – Brings a mix of herbs that complement the salmon.
• Water – Use to thin the sauce; you can reserve some gnocchi cooking water for extra flavor.
• Fresh spinach – Lightens the dish while adding a beautiful pop of color.
• Cream cheese – Creates a creamy texture, making this Creamy Salmon Gnocchi truly indulgent.
For the Gnocchi
• Gnocchi – The star of the dish, chosen for its pillowy texture and ability to soak up the sauce.
• Hot smoked salmon – Imparts a rich, smoky flavor that beautifully pairs with the creaminess.
To Finish
• Salt and pepper – Season to taste for that perfect finish.
• Fresh parsley – Optional, but adds a lovely touch of freshness when garnished.
How to Make Creamy Salmon Gnocchi
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Heat Oil: Start by heating the olive oil in a large, deep pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté the finely diced shallot for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes translucent.
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Add Aromatics: Stir in the chopped garlic and red chilli flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the dry white wine and let it simmer until most of the alcohol evaporates, enhancing the flavor of your sauce.
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Boil Gnocchi: Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. They should float to the surface when they’re ready—perfectly tender!
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Incorporate Tomato Paste: Add tomato paste to your sautéed shallots, then mix in the Italian seasoning. Pour in 200 ml of water, either directly or using some of the reserved gnocchi cooking water, and bring everything to a gentle simmer.
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Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it wilts away, creating a vibrant foundation for your creamy sauce.
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Melt Cream Cheese: Now it’s time to add the cream cheese! Stir it in and watch it melt into a luscious sauce. Allow it to bubble gently for about a minute, thickening beautifully.
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Combine Gnocchi and Salmon: Finally, add your cooked gnocchi and flaked hot smoked salmon to the pan. Gently toss everything together to coat the gnocchi in that rich, creamy sauce.
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Serve: Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve immediately, and don’t forget to sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a lovely finishing touch!
Optional: Serve with a splash of lemon juice for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Creamy Salmon Gnocchi Variations
Feel free to get creative with your dish—there’s no limit to how you can elevate this comforting recipe!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese or nut-based alternative to create a plant-based version.
Plant-based options can provide the same creamy texture without the dairy. -
Shrimp Delight: Replace the hot smoked salmon with cooked shrimp for a delightful seafood twist.
This option offers a different flavor profile while maintaining that cozy essence you’ll love. -
Veggie-Loaded: Add extra vegetables like cherry tomatoes or zucchini for a burst of color and nutrition.
These additions not only enhance the dish visually but also amplify the texture and flavor experience. -
Pasta Alternative: Swap gnocchi with your favorite pasta shape, like fettuccine or penne, for a comforting change.
Experimenting with different pasta can bring a whole new vibe to this timeless recipe! -
Herb Explosion: Fresh dill or chives can be introduced for an aromatic kick that complements the salmon beautifully.
A sprinkle of fresh herbs elevates the dish, making it feel alive and vibrant on your plate. -
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce.
This fiery twist can be a game changer for spice lovers, enhancing every bite with a flavorful punch! -
Lemon Zest: Incorporate some fresh lemon zest for a zesty brightness that balances the creaminess.
The citrus notes will lighten up the dish, making each forkful feel refreshing and delicious. -
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top just before serving for a delightful crunch.
The contrast in texture will add an exciting dimension, making the dish even more enjoyable!
Expert Tips for Creamy Salmon Gnocchi
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality hot smoked salmon elevate the flavor of your Creamy Salmon Gnocchi, making it a standout dish.
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Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Ensure your gnocchi is tender but not mushy. Monitor closely as they float to the surface to signal doneness.
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Wine Selection Matters: Choose a dry white wine you enjoy drinking; its flavor infuses the sauce beautifully. Avoid using cooking wine, as it’s often lower quality.
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Balance the Sauce: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper before serving, ensuring the richness of the sauce is perfectly balanced.
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Add a Citrus Zing: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the dish, enhancing the creaminess of the sauce without overpowering it.
What to Serve with Creamy Salmon Gnocchi?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delightful dish with sides and beverages that complement its rich flavors.
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Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, making every bite a pleasure. Serve alongside to create a comforting, hearty dinner feel.
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Roasted Asparagus: Keep it fresh with tender roasted asparagus, adding a delightful crunch while enhancing the meal’s overall elegance. The bright green color also contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
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Caesar Salad: A zesty Caesar salad adds a crisp texture and tangy flavor to balance the richness of the gnocchi. The crunchy croutons and creamy dressing create a harmonious combination.
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Chardonnay: Pair this dish with a chilled glass of Chardonnay for a perfect match. Its fruity notes and buttery finish harmonize beautifully with the creamy salmon and richness of the meal.
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Lemon Tart: For dessert, a zesty lemon tart cleanses the palate and offers a bright, refreshing finish to the meal, contrasting the creamy comfort of the gnocchi.
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Grilled Vegetables: Serve grilled zucchini and bell peppers on the side for a colorful and nutritious addition. Their smoky flavors beautifully complement the richness of the dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Salmon Gnocchi are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can chop the shallots and garlic, and mix the seasonings up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can cook the gnocchi and store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days; just make sure to toss them with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. When it’s time to enjoy, simply combine everything in your pan with the sautéed aromatics and proceed with adding the sauce and salmon. This way, you’ll have a comforting, gourmet meal ready to savor in no time!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Salmon Gnocchi
Fridge: Store leftover Creamy Salmon Gnocchi in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce may thicken, but a splash of water or cream during reheating can restore its consistency.
Freezer: To freeze, portion the gnocchi in freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months for the best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the dish in a pan over low heat, stirring gently. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of water or cream to loosen it up for a creamy finish.
Creamy Salmon Gnocchi Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right ripeness of spinach for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing fresh spinach, look for vibrant green leaves that are crisp and not wilted. Avoid any leaves with dark spots or yellowing, as these indicate that the spinach is past its prime. Fresh spinach adds a delightful texture and flavor to your Creamy Salmon Gnocchi!
How should I store leftover Creamy Salmon Gnocchi?
Store any leftover Creamy Salmon Gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken a bit, but don’t worry! Just add a splash of water or cream when reheating to bring back that lovely creamy texture.
Can I freeze Creamy Salmon Gnocchi?
Yes, you can freeze it! To freeze, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers, making sure to consume it within 2 months for the best quality. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a little water or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
What if my gnocchi turns out mushy?
Very! It can be disappointing if that happens. To prevent mushiness, keep an eye on your gnocchi while it’s cooking; they’re done when they float to the top of the boiling water, usually within 2-3 minutes. If you inadvertently overcook them, you can still enjoy the meal, though it might not have the ideal texture.
Is this Creamy Salmon Gnocchi recipe suitable for people with seafood allergies?
It’s important to note that this recipe contains hot smoked salmon, so it’s not suitable for those with seafood allergies. However, you could substitute the salmon with grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious alternative that accommodates dietary restrictions.
Can I make Creamy Salmon Gnocchi dairy-free?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based cream cheese alternative and check that the gnocchi are free of dairy ingredients. You can also use coconut milk or a cashew cream for a rich, creamy sauce without the lactose. Just remember to adjust seasonings to taste!
Indulge in Creamy Salmon Gnocchi for a Cozy Night In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and sauté shirallot until translucent.
- Add garlic and red chilli flakes, cooking until fragrant. Pour in white wine and let simmer.
- Boil water in a pot and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions.
- Mix in tomato paste and Italian seasoning. Pour in water and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in fresh spinach and let simmer until wilted.
- Add cream cheese and allow to melt into a sauce.
- Combine cooked gnocchi and flaked salmon into the sauce. Toss gently.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
