There is something truly irresistible about the Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Recipe that makes it an absolute favorite in my kitchen. Imagine pillowy gnocchi swimming in a luscious, creamy sauce bursting with the smoky, tender goodness of salmon—each bite packed with layers of flavor and just the right hint of spice and herb. This dish brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both special and comforting, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress without stress. If you love combining rich textures with vibrant tastes, this recipe will quickly become your go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Recipe truly shine, you’ll want quality ingredients that are straightforward yet bursting with flavor. Each item contributes something important—whether it’s the smoky depth from the salmon, the silky creaminess, or the fresh brightness of spinach. Here’s your handy list to grab before you start cooking.
- 2 cups gnocchi: These soft potato dumplings are the perfect base for soaking up the sauce.
- 8 oz smoked salmon: Delivers that luxurious, smoky flavor that’s central to the dish.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich, dreamy sauce that coats every gnocchi piece.
- 3.5 oz fresh spinach: Adds vibrant color and a mild, earthy note.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Imparts a salty, nutty finish that elevates the creaminess.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings warmth and a fragrant foundation to the sauce.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing garlic and spinach to perfection.
- 1 tsp Italian herbs: A blend of herbs that infuses the sauce with classic Mediterranean aroma.
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper: Gives just the right little kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1 cup water: Used when cooking gnocchi and adjusting sauce consistency.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- 2 tbsp tomato puree: Adds subtle sweetness and richness, rounding out the sauce beautifully.
How to Make Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add your gnocchi and cook them just until they float to the surface—a sure sign they’re perfectly tender, which usually takes 2 to 3 minutes. Scoop them out carefully and set aside to keep warm. This quick step ensures that your gnocchi remain pillowy and ready to soak up the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Spinach
Next, warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it until it becomes wonderfully fragrant, which takes about a minute. Then, add the fresh spinach, cooking until it wilts down and releases its vibrant green color. This step infuses the dish with a fresh, garlicky depth that complements the smoked salmon perfectly.
Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Italian herbs, crushed red pepper, and tomato puree, blending everything until the sauce thickens slightly. This luscious sauce is where all your flavors come together, balancing the smoky salmon with a touch of heat and a hint of sweetness from the tomato.
Step 4: Add the Smoked Salmon
Gently fold in the smoked salmon, allowing it to warm through in the sauce for about 2 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as you want it to stay juicy and tender, adding bursts of flavor in every bite. This step is what truly brings this dish’s name to life.
Step 5: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce
Return the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss them lovingly with the sauce. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to your liking. The cheese melts into the sauce, offering a creamy, slightly salty contrast that makes this dish unbelievably satisfying.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Once everything is nicely combined and heated through, transfer the gnocchi to serving plates. For an extra touch, garnish with some grated Parmesan or your favorite fresh herbs. Serve this Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Recipe immediately to enjoy all the flavors and textures at their absolute best.
How to Serve Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can take your Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Recipe to the next level. Consider sprinkling additional Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy hit or some freshly chopped parsley or dill for a burst of freshness. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
For a well-rounded meal, pair this dish with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted asparagus spears. The light, acidic sides contrast perfectly with the creamy gnocchi and smoky salmon, balancing the richness and keeping things fresh on the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve the gnocchi in individual shallow bowls with a sprinkle of edible flowers or microgreens on top. Another fun idea is to offer a small bowl of crushed red pepper flakes and extra Parmesan so everyone can customize their plates. The vibrant color contrast between the pink salmon, green spinach, and creamy sauce is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep it chilled promptly to maintain the freshness of the smoked salmon and the creamy integrity of the sauce.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is not ideal as the texture of gnocchi and cream sauce can change unfavorably after thawing. If you must freeze it, separate the gnocchi and sauce if possible, and freeze the gnocchi raw and the sauce in separate containers. Thaw slowly in the fridge and reheat gently to preserve the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, use a low heat on the stove or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Add a splash of cream or water to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from breaking or drying out. This method keeps the flavors vibrant and the gnocchi tender.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of smoked salmon?
While fresh salmon can be used, it won’t provide the same smoky depth that defines this dish. If using fresh salmon, try seasoning and lightly smoking or grilling it first to get closer to the intended flavor profile.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Traditional gnocchi usually contains gluten, so if you need a gluten-free option, look for gnocchi made with gluten-free flour or try a potato-only variety. Make sure to check all other ingredients for hidden gluten as well.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter sauce, but it won’t be quite as rich or thick. Coconut cream is an alternative for a dairy-free twist, although it changes the flavor profile somewhat.
Can this dish be made vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap smoked salmon for smoked carrot strips or smoked mushrooms, use plant-based cream alternatives, and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese. The essence of the dish changes, but it still can be delicious.
How spicy is the crushed red pepper in this recipe?
The amount of crushed red pepper is mild to moderate, just enough to add a gentle heat that highlights the flavors without overwhelming the salmon’s delicate smokiness. Feel free to adjust it to your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Recipe is truly a celebration of comfort and elegance wrapped into one delightful plate. Its combination of soft gnocchi, smoky, tender salmon, and creamy, herb-spiced sauce turns an everyday meal into something quite special. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and enjoy the warm, satisfying flavors that always bring smiles around my table.
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Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi recipe features tender gnocchi cooked until fluffy, then tossed in a creamy, flavorful sauce made with smoked salmon, fresh spinach, garlic, and tomato puree. Infused with Italian herbs and a hint of crushed red pepper, this quick and elegant dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Gnocchi
- 2 cups gnocchi
- 1 cup water
- Salt to taste (for boiling water)
Sauce and Garnish
- 8 oz smoked salmon
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3.5 oz fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian herbs
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper
- 2 tbsp tomato puree
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Gnocchi: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the gnocchi and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Spinach: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Italian herbs, crushed red pepper, and tomato puree. Let the sauce cook until it thickens slightly, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add Smoked Salmon: Fold in the smoked salmon pieces, stirring gently to combine. Warm through for about 2 minutes without overcooking to preserve the salmon’s delicate texture.
- Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the gnocchi evenly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the gnocchi immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired for an elegant finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure gnocchi are cooked until they float to guarantee a light, fluffy texture.
- Be careful not to overcook the smoked salmon to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Adjust crushed red pepper quantity for preferred spice level.
- Use fresh spinach for best flavor and texture; frozen spinach may alter the sauce consistency.
- Additional fresh herbs like parsley or dill pair well as garnishes.
