There’s something truly comforting about the sound of water gently bubbling as gnocchi floats to the surface, ready to be transformed into a delightful meal. I first made this Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi during one of those hectic weeknights when takeout just wouldn’t cut it. The fusion of tender potato dumplings, rich smoky salmon, and a creamy dill sauce brought a touch of restaurant elegance to my dinner table in less than 30 minutes—just what every busy family needs!
With minimal prep and a handful of ingredients, this dish is not only quick and easy but also endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re hosting friends or just looking for a cozy family dinner, this creamy masterpiece promises to impress. So grab your skillet, and let me show you how to whip up this delicious meal that’s bound to become a favorite!
Why love Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi?
Simplicity at its Best: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Creamy Delight: The luscious creamy dill sauce paired with smoky salmon creates a dreamy flavor combination everyone will love.
Adaptable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients like spinach for your favorite greens or try different proteins such as chicken or tofu.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its comforting taste and elegant presentation make it ideal for both casual family dinners and entertaining guests.
Minimal Cleanup: With just one skillet needed, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you more time to enjoy your meal.
Explore more about enhancing dinners with our helpful tips in the post!
Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Ingredients
For the Gnocchi
• Gnocchi – Use store-bought for convenience, but homemade adds a personal touch.
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – Extra virgin imparts a rich flavor to the dish.
• Shallot – A sweeter alternative to onion, enhancing the sauce depth.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic elevates flavor; garlic powder can be a quick substitute.
• Red Chili Flakes – Add just the right kick, adjust according to your spice preference.
• White Wine – Provides acidity; vegetable broth is a great non-alcoholic alternative.
• Tomato Paste – Boosts umami; swap for fresh tomatoes if you prefer.
• Italian Seasoning Mix – A blend of herbs that complements the dish wonderfully; individual herbs can also work.
• Spinach – Offers nutrients and freshness; kale is a tasty alternative.
For the Creamy Base
• Cream Cheese – Creates the rich, creamy texture; avoid low-fat options for best results.
For the Protein
• Hot Smoked Salmon – Adds heartiness and smokiness; feel free to substitute with cooked chicken or tofu for a different flavor.
For Garnishing
• Fresh Parsley – A pop of color and fresh flavor; optional but highly recommended.
Explore the joy of cooking with these ingredients and create your own Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi delight!
How to Make Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi
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Heat the Oil: In a large pan, pour a drizzle of olive oil and warm it over medium heat. Allow it to shimmer before moving to the next step, ensuring the shallots will sauté beautifully.
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Sauté Shallots: Add the chopped shallot to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until they’re soft and translucent. This adds sweetness and depth to your sauce.
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Add Aromatics: Sprinkle in the minced garlic and red chili flakes, stirring for another minute. The aroma that fills your kitchen will make everyone’s mouth water!
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Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a few minutes. Cook until the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind a lovely depth of flavor.
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Cook the Gnocchi: As the wine reduces, bring a pot of water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions—typically for 2-3 minutes until they float to the surface.
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Mix with Sauce: Return to your sauté pan, and stir in the tomato paste along with the Italian seasoning mix. Let it simmer for a minute so the flavors can mingle.
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Add Water and Spinach: Pour in a splash of water and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Toss in the spinach and cook until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
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Incorporate Cream Cheese: Lower the heat and gently stir in the cream cheese. Keep stirring until it melts completely, creating a creamy sauce that hugs each dumpling.
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Fold in Gnocchi and Salmon: Once the gnocchi are ready, drain them and fold them into the creamy sauce along with the flaked hot smoked salmon. Ensure everything is evenly coated and heated through.
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Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste your creation. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, then garnish with fresh parsley for that lovely finishing touch.
Optional: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish beautifully!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi
Room Temperature: It’s best to store Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi in the fridge if you’re not eating it right away.
Fridge: Store the dish in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but the sauce may thicken.
Freezer: If you need to keep it longer, freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. However, be mindful that the texture of the gnocchi might change upon thawing.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help restore the creamy consistency.
Expert Tips for Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi
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Perfectly Cooked Gnocchi: Remove gnocchi from boiling water as soon as they float. If they overcook, they can become mushy, detracting from the dish’s texture.
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Gentle Salmon Folding: Add flaked hot smoked salmon at the end of cooking. This preserves its delicate texture and ensures it remains a highlight in the creamy sauce.
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Smooth Sauce Technique: To achieve a velvety sauce with the cream cheese, lower the heat and stir continuously. If the sauce thickens too much, add reserved pasta water gradually.
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Flavor Depth: Don’t skip on deglazing with white wine, as it adds essential acidity that balances the richness of the cream and salmon in your Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi.
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Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the dish in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be mindful that the sauce may thicken, so reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.
Make Ahead Options
These Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy dill sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply sauté the shallots, garlic, and chili flakes, then add the white wine, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning before refrigerating. The sauce can be stored in an airtight container and reheated gently on the stove when ready to serve. To maintain the quality, keep the cooked gnocchi separate—boil them just before serving—and gently fold them along with the smoked salmon and spinach into the warmed sauce. This way, you’ll enjoy all the deliciousness with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi?
Elevate your dinner experience with delightful pairings that complement the creamy, smoky flavors of this dish.
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Arugula Salad: A light, peppery salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast and balances the richness of the gnocchi.
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Garlic Bread: Crusty and warm, garlic bread offers a delightful way to soak up any remaining creamy sauce from your plate.
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Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears, lightly seasoned and grilled, bring a fresh, earthy flavor spectrum to your meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Steamed Broccoli: Crisp broccoli not only provides a nutrient boost but its vibrant green color adds a lovely visual touch to your plate.
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Sparkling White Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling white wine harmonizes beautifully with the richness of the salmon, enhancing the flavors of the dish.
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Zesty Lemon Tart: For dessert, a zesty lemon tart offers a perfect sweet-tart contrast, cleansing the palate and leaving a lasting impression.
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Roasted Baby Potatoes: Golden, crispy roasted potatoes sprinkled with herbs offer a satisfying crunch, creating a delightful texture contrast against the gnocchi.
Pairing your Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi with these options ensures a memorable meal that is both impressive and comforting!
Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe, adjusting flavors and ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
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Protein Swap: Substitute hot smoked salmon with cooked chicken or crispy bacon for a different protein twist. Each option adds a unique flavor profile that keeps the dish exciting.
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Dairy-Free: Use cashew cream or coconut milk in place of cream cheese for a luscious, creamy base that’s completely dairy-free. You’ll still enjoy that velvety mouthfeel without the dairy!
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Veggie Boost: Toss in seasonal vegetables like peas, asparagus, or bell peppers to add color and nutritional value. Their freshness enhances the dish, making it even more delightful.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs such as dill or chives instead of parsley for an aromatic lift. Each herb brings its own essence, providing a fresh twist to each bite.
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Spice it Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a smoky heat that complements the salmon beautifully. Adjust the spice levels to suit your palate!
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Cheese Alternatives: Swap cream cheese with mascarpone or sour cream for a different creamy texture and taste. Both options introduce a delightful twist that pairs wonderfully with the gnocchi.
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Noodle Options: Instead of gnocchi, try using spiralized zucchini or whole wheat pasta. This offers a light and nutritious alternative while still holding onto the comforting essence of the dish.
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the finished dish for a bright flavor that cuts through the richness. This adds a refreshing pop that lightens the meal beautifully.
Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the ripeness of the gnocchi?
Absolutely! If you’re using store-bought gnocchi, look for packages that are fresh and have a good texture without any dark spots or damage. If you decide to make homemade gnocchi, use fresh potatoes that are firm to the touch, avoiding any that are excessively wrinkled or sprouting.
How should I store leftovers of Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi?
You can store Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the sauce may thicken as it sits, so you may want to add a splash of water or broth when reheating to regain that creamy consistency!
Can I freeze the Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi?
Of course! To freeze, place the cooled dish in a tightly sealed, freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding a little water or broth to restore creaminess.
What can I do if the sauce becomes too thick?
Very good question! If your sauce thickens too much, simply add a little reserved pasta water or vegetable broth while stirring over low heat. This will help loosen the sauce and give it that luscious, creamy texture again. Just add a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you’re preparing this dish for someone with allergies, it’s important to note that it contains dairy due to the cream cheese. For gluten-free options, try using gluten-free gnocchi. If you’re cooking for children or picky eaters, you can adjust the chili flakes to make it milder. Always feel free to substitute with other proteins like chicken or tofu if needed.
How can I enhance the flavors of the creamy sauce?
Yes! For added flavor depth, consider using homemade vegetable broth instead of water for simmering the sauce. You can also incorporate a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving to brighten the dish, or add a tablespoon of capers for a briny twist!
Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi in a Creamy Dill Dream
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the Oil: In a large pan, pour a drizzle of olive oil and warm it over medium heat.
- Sauté Shallots: Add the chopped shallot and sauté for 1-2 minutes until soft.
- Add Aromatics: Sprinkle in minced garlic and red chili flakes, stirring for another minute.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine and simmer until the alcohol evaporates.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions.
- Mix with Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste and Italian seasoning mix, simmer for a minute.
- Add Water and Spinach: Pour in a splash of water and add spinach, cooking until wilted.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese: Lower heat, stir in cream cheese until melted.
- Fold in Gnocchi and Salmon: Drain the gnocchi and fold them into the creamy sauce with salmon.
- Taste and Adjust: Adjust seasoning, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
