Description
Creamy Salmon Gnocchi
Comfort food at its best! This creamy salmon gnocchi is a lighter version of the classic, using cream cheese instead of heavy cream for that perfect indulgent taste without all the guilt. It’s easy, quick, and tastes like something you’d find at a fancy restaurant—ready in just 20 minutes!
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium shallot, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
¼ tsp red chilli flakes
75 ml dry white wine
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp Italian seasoning mix
200 ml water
100 g fresh spinach
180 g cream cheese
500 g gnocchi
225 g hot smoked salmon
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Sauté shallot in olive oil for 1-2 minutes.
2. Add garlic, chilli flakes, and white wine. Cook until alcohol evaporates.
3. Cook gnocchi as per package instructions.
4. Stir in tomato paste, seasoning, and water. Simmer.
5. Add spinach and cream cheese, stirring until melted.
6. Mix in cooked gnocchi and salmon. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Kcal: 543 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect result every time. First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the gnocchi. While it heats, start the sauce. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced shallot and cook for 1-2 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the chopped garlic and red chilli flakes, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine, stirring to deglaze the pan, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until reduced by half and the raw alcohol smell is gone.
Stir in the tomato paste and Italian seasoning, cooking for one minute to deepen the flavor. Add the water and bring to a gentle simmer. By now, your gnocchi water should be boiling; cook the gnocchi according to package directions. As the sauce simmers, add the fresh spinach in handfuls, letting it wilt. Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese, stirring constantly until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Finally, gently fold in the flaked hot-smoked salmon and the drained, cooked gnocchi. Toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.
Serving Suggestions
This rich dish is best served immediately. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple side salad dressed with a light lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. A slice of crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, or an extra pinch of red chilli flakes for a touch of color and added heat.
How-to Summary
In summary: Sauté shallots, garlic, and chilli. Deglaze with wine. Add tomato paste, seasoning, and water to form a base. Wilt spinach and melt cream cheese into the sauce. Gently fold in cooked gnocchi and flaked salmon. Serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of salmon?
Yes, you can use regular cooked or baked salmon. Flake it in. Hot-smoked salmon is preferred for its intense flavor and flaky texture, which integrates seamlessly.
What can I substitute for white wine?
Use an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth with a squeeze of lemon juice to mimic the acidity.
Is there a substitute for cream cheese?
Full-fat mascarpone or ricotta (blended until smooth) will work. For a dairy-free option, try a plain, unsweetened cashew or oat-based cream cheese.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh. The sauce can thicken and the gnocchi may become gummy upon reheating. If necessary, reheat gently with a splash of water or milk.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Absolutely. Thaw and thoroughly squeeze out all excess liquid before adding it to the sauce to prevent watering it down.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Gnocchi: Cook gnocchi just until they float. Overcooking makes them mushy.
- Not Reducing the Wine: Ensure the wine simmers long enough to cook off the raw alcohol taste.
- Adding Cold Cream Cheese: Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before adding to prevent a lumpy sauce.
- Over-stirring the Salmon: Fold the salmon in gently at the end to keep it in nice flakes, not tiny shreds.
- Skipping Seasoning: The sauce needs adequate salt and pepper. Taste and adjust before serving.
Conclusion
This creamy salmon gnocchi is the ultimate weeknight luxury, proving that a restaurant-quality meal can be effortlessly made at home in 20 minutes. By using cream cheese, it achieves a wonderfully rich and satisfying texture that feels indulgent yet balanced. With the detailed guide and tips provided, you’re equipped to avoid common pitfalls and create a flawless dish. Gather your ingredients and get ready for a comforting, delicious dinner that is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.