Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi

Rich, creamy, and perfectly comforting, this juicy smoked salmon gnocchi is a weeknight hero that feels gourmet without the fuss. Soft potato gnocchi meet a silky cream cheese and spinach sauce, while smoky salmon adds a delicate depth of flavor. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family or dinner guests, with leftovers that heat up beautifully for lunch the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Smoked Salmon Gnocchi

• Quick and easy – ready in just 25–40 minutes
• Restaurant-quality flavors at home with minimal effort
• Simple, accessible ingredients that you likely have on hand
• One-pan sauce reduces cleanup and keeps the flavors concentrated
• Perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or entertaining

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• Dry white wine (1/3 cup) – Adds depth and richness
• Italian herbs (1 tsp) – Infuses the sauce with classic Italian flavor
• Water (1 cup) – Forms the base of the sauce; can use gnocchi cooking water for extra silkiness
• Olive oil (1 tbsp) – For sautéing aromatics
• Tomato puree (2 tbsp) – Enhances richness and adds color
• Fresh spinach (3.5 oz) – Adds vibrant greens and subtle flavor
• Crushed red pepper (1/4 tsp) – Gives a gentle heat
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Aromatic backbone of the sauce
• Shallot (1 medium, finely chopped) – Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor
• Cream cheese (180 g, full-fat) – Creates a smooth, creamy, luxurious sauce

For the Main Dish

• Hot smoked salmon (200 g, flaked) – Adds smoky, tender protein
• Gnocchi (500 g, store-bought or homemade) – Pillowy base for the sauce
• Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped) – Bright garnish for color and freshness

How to Make Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the shallot and cook for 1–2 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir in the garlic and crushed red pepper and cook for another minute to release their aroma.

Step 2: Deglaze with White Wine

Pour in the white wine and cook until the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind rich flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving some of the cooking water for later if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 4: Build the Sauce Base

Add the tomato puree to the pan and stir in the Italian herbs. Pour in 200 ml of water (or some reserved gnocchi water) and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Incorporate Spinach and Cream Cheese

Add the spinach and cook 2–3 minutes until wilted. Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted, creating a smooth, silky sauce. Let it bubble gently for a minute.

Step 6: Combine Gnocchi and Salmon

Fold the cooked gnocchi and flaked smoked salmon into the sauce, ensuring everything is coated evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley for brightness and color.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook gnocchi – remove them as soon as they float to avoid mushy dumplings
• Add smoked salmon at the end to keep it tender
• Use room-temperature cream cheese for a lump-free, creamy sauce
• Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed

Equipment Needed

• Large deep pan or Dutch oven
• Pot for boiling gnocchi
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Recipe Variations

• Vegetable twist: Substitute spinach with arugula or baby kale
• Cheese swap: Use mascarpone or a mix of cream and goat cheese for a richer sauce
• White wine substitute: Use chicken or vegetable stock plus a splash of lemon juice
• Herb alternatives: Out of Italian seasoning? Mix basil, oregano, and thyme

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Serve with roasted asparagus or steamed green beans
• Start with bruschetta or a small antipasto plate for a dinner party

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prep the cream sauce base a day in advance. Add gnocchi and salmon just before serving.

How should I reheat leftovers?
Gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed. Avoid overheating the salmon.

Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, thaw and cook according to package instructions.

Is this dish suitable for entertaining?
Absolutely! It looks elegant, tastes rich, and can be made quickly without stress.

Final Thoughts

Juicy smoked salmon gnocchi is comfort food with elegance. Creamy, smoky, and perfectly balanced, it’s ideal for weeknights, special dinners, or impressing guests. Quick to prepare, satisfying to eat, and beautifully indulgent—this recipe is a must-try for pasta lovers everywhere.

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