Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Recipe
This Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi recipe features tender gnocchi tossed in a creamy tomato and spinach sauce, enhanced with the smoky richness of hot smoked salmon. With aromatic shallots, garlic, and a splash of white wine, this comforting dish is perfect for a flavorful weeknight meal or elegant dinner.
- Author: Lena
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Sauce and Gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium shallot, minced
- 2 large garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1/3 cup dry white wine (75 ml)
- 2 tablespoons concentrated tomato puree
- 1 teaspoon Italian herb blend
- 1 cup water (200 ml)
- 100 g fresh spinach leaves (3.5 oz)
- 180 g cream cheese
Main
- Gnocchi (quantity not specified on package instructions, approximately 500 g recommended)
- Hot smoked salmon, flaked (approximately 150-200 g)
- Freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large, deep pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced shallot and sauté for 1-2 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir in the garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute to release their aromatic flavors.
- Deglaze with White Wine: Pour in the dry white wine, allowing it to simmer until the alcohol mostly evaporates, which enhances the depth of flavor without the harshness of alcohol.
- Cook the Gnocchi: While the sauce base is cooking, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions, usually until they float to the surface. Drain the gnocchi and reserve some of the cooking water for later use in the sauce if needed.
- Build the Base of the Sauce: Return to the sauté pan and stir in the concentrated tomato puree along with the Italian herb blend. Pour in 200 ml of water (using some reserved gnocchi cooking water if desired) and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Incorporate Spinach and Cream Cheese: Add fresh spinach leaves to the simmering sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Then stir in the cream cheese, allowing it to melt fully into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture. Let the sauce bubble gently for another minute.
- Combine Gnocchi and Salmon: Gently fold the cooked gnocchi and flaked hot smoked salmon into the sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness and color if desired.
Notes
- Reserve some gnocchi cooking water to adjust sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Use hot smoked salmon for best flavor; cold smoked salmon will not have the same texture or smokiness.
- If cream cheese is not available, mascarpone or crème fraîche can be substituted for a similar creamy texture.
- For a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper quantity to taste.
- This dish is best enjoyed immediately as the gnocchi may become soggy if left sitting too long.
Keywords: smoked salmon gnocchi, creamy gnocchi recipe, stovetop gnocchi, quick dinner, Italian-inspired pasta, spinach cream sauce, smoked fish pasta