Description
This creamy salmon gnocchi dish is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender gnocchi is cooked and tossed in a rich, creamy sauce made with cream cheese, spinach, tomato paste, and smoked salmon, seasoned with garlic, shallots, and Italian herbs, delivering a comforting and flavorful experience in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
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) vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 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, flaked
Instructions
- Sauté Shallots: 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 translucent, releasing its sweet flavors.
- Add Garlic and Chili Flakes: Stir in the chopped garlic and red chilli flakes. Continue to cook for another minute until fragrant, careful not to burn the garlic.
- Simmer Broth and Lemon: Pour in the vegetable broth and lemon juice. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly and meld the flavors.
- Cook Gnocchi: Meanwhile, bring a separate pot of water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions, typically until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
- Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings: Stir the tomato paste into the pan with the shallots. Add the Italian seasoning mix and pour in 200 ml water (you may use some of the gnocchi cooking water). Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Wilt Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Melt Cream Cheese: Add the cream cheese and stir continuously until it melts completely into a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine Gnocchi and Salmon: Let the sauce bubble for about a minute, then gently fold in the cooked gnocchi and flaked hot smoked salmon, ensuring everything is evenly coated and warmed through.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.
Notes
- Use the gnocchi cooking water to adjust sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Hot smoked salmon adds a smoky flavor without needing to cook the fish further.
- You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone for a slightly different creamy texture.
- For added depth, sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper or parmesan cheese before serving.
- To make it gluten-free, choose gnocchi made from gluten-free ingredients.
