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Creamy Salmon Gnocchi Recipe

4.7 from 70 reviews

This creamy salmon gnocchi recipe combines tender gnocchi with a rich and flavorful cream cheese sauce, enhanced by smoked salmon, spinach, and a delicate blend of Italian seasonings. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, it features a quick stovetop preparation that melds fresh and pantry ingredients into a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium shallot, finely diced
  • 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon red chilli flakes
  • 75 ml (1/3 cup) dry white wine
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix
  • 200 ml (1 cup) water
  • 100 g (3.5 oz) fresh spinach
  • 180 g (6.5 oz) cream cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Main Ingredients

  • 500 g (1 lb) gnocchi
  • 225 g (1/2 lb) hot smoked salmon

Instructions

  1. Sauté shallot: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely diced shallot and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent.
  2. Add garlic and chilli flakes: Stir in the finely chopped garlic and red chilli flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the dry white wine and cook until the alcohol mostly evaporates, enhancing the base flavor of the sauce.
  3. Cook gnocchi: While the sauce base cooks, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
  4. Add tomato paste and seasoning: Mix the tomato paste into the pan with the shallots and garlic. Stir in the Italian seasoning mix, then pour in 200 ml of water (can be reserve gnocchi cooking water) and bring the sauce to a simmer.
  5. Cook spinach and melt cream cheese: Add the fresh spinach to the simmering sauce, allowing it to wilt over 2-3 minutes. Then, add the cream cheese and stir continuously until it melts completely, forming a creamy, smooth sauce.
  6. Combine gnocchi and salmon: Let the sauce bubble gently for a minute to thicken slightly. Stir in the cooked gnocchi and flaked hot smoked salmon, ensuring everything is evenly coated in the cream sauce.
  7. Season and serve: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

Notes

  • Using some of the gnocchi cooking water helps adjust the sauce consistency perfectly.
  • Hot smoked salmon adds a smoky depth; cold smoked salmon can be substituted but adjust quantity to taste.
  • For a dairy-free option, use vegan cream cheese and olive oil, but flavor profiles may differ slightly.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the gnocchi at its best texture and the sauce warm and creamy.
  • Add freshly chopped parsley or lemon zest for a fresh aroma and brightness.

Keywords: creamy salmon gnocchi, gnocchi recipe, smoked salmon pasta, Italian gnocchi, creamy sauce recipe