Indulge in this creamy, flavorful gnocchi dish with a delicious salmon twist! The perfect comforting meal that’s ready in no time!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Creamy Salmon Gnocchi is a delightful blend of rich flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance. The combination of silky cream cheese, savory smoked salmon, and tender gnocchi creates a comforting dish that is both satisfying and indulgent. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is quick to prepare yet feels luxurious. The addition of fresh spinach not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the nutritional value of the meal, making it a well-rounded dish that you can feel good about serving.
Introduction
Gnocchi, those delightful little pillows of potato goodness, have a special place in the hearts of pasta lovers everywhere. When paired with the rich, creamy flavors of a sauce that features salmon, it transforms into a gourmet experience that is surprisingly easy to achieve in your own kitchen. This recipe for Creamy Salmon Gnocchi is perfect for busy evenings when you want something comforting and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium shallot, finely diced
- 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
- 75 ml (⅓ 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
- 500 g (1 lb) gnocchi
- 225 g (½ lb) hot smoked salmon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely diced shallot and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 2: Add the chopped garlic and red chili flakes to the pan. Cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to soften and infuse the oil with its aroma.
Step 3: Pour in the dry white wine, letting it simmer for a few minutes until most of the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind a rich flavor.
Step 4: While the wine is cooking, prepare the gnocchi according to the package instructions. This usually involves boiling them in salted water until they float to the surface, indicating they are cooked.
Step 5: Stir in the tomato paste and Italian seasoning mix, followed by 200 ml of water (you can use some of the gnocchi cooking water for added flavor). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, add the fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Stir in the cream cheese, allowing it to melt completely into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
Step 6: Once the sauce is bubbling, gently fold in the cooked gnocchi and flaked hot smoked salmon. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
This Creamy Salmon Gnocchi pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables. For an extra touch, serve it with a glass of chilled dry white wine, which complements the flavors of the dish perfectly.
Tips:
- For a lighter version, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a lighter cream alternative.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or asparagus for added nutrition and color.
- If you prefer a bit more heat, increase the amount of red chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 900mg
Conclusion
Creamy Salmon Gnocchi is a deliciously indulgent meal that is surprisingly simple to prepare. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe will impress everyone at the table. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of gnocchi goodness!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
1. Can I use frozen gnocchi instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works just as well in this recipe. Just add them directly to boiling water and cook according to the package instructions.
2. What type of salmon is best for this dish?
Hot smoked salmon is ideal for this recipe due to its rich, smoky flavor. However, you can also use grilled or poached salmon if that’s what you have on hand.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can skip the salmon and add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You might also want to increase the amount of cream cheese or add some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
4. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free gnocchi. Many brands offer gluten-free options made from potato or rice flour.
5. What can I serve with Creamy Salmon Gnocchi?
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a light salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of white wine also complements it beautifully!