Description
You know those meals that feel fancy but take almost no time to make? That’s this dish. Juicy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi is rich, creamy, and full of bold, luxurious flavor—without the fuss. It’s the kind of meal you can whip up on a weeknight but serve proudly for date night, brunch, or even a cozy dinner party.
Ingredients
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1 lb potato gnocchi (fresh or shelf-stable)
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1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
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Zest of 1 lemon + 1 tablespoon lemon juice
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3 oz smoked salmon, torn into bite-sized pieces
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1/4 cup grated parmesan (optional, but recommended)
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1 tablespoon chopped dill or chives (plus extra for garnish)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Optional: a handful of baby spinach or arugula for color and balance
Instructions
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Cook the gnocchi
If using shelf-stable or fresh gnocchi, cook according to package instructions until they float. Drain and set aside. For a crispy twist, pan-sear gnocchi in butter until golden before adding sauce. -
Make the sauce
In a large skillet, melt butter or heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. -
Add cream and lemon
Stir in the cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken. -
Add gnocchi and toss
Stir in the cooked gnocchi and let them simmer in the sauce for 2–3 minutes so they soak up the flavor. -
Add smoked salmon and herbs
Gently fold in the smoked salmon and chopped dill or chives. Let warm through—do not overcook or the salmon will dry out. -
Finish with parmesan and season
Stir in parmesan (if using) and season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs and lemon zest.
Notes
For best texture, add smoked salmon at the very end—just enough to warm it through.
Gnocchi can be boiled or pan-seared—pan-searing adds a delicious golden crust!
Taste before adding extra salt—smoked salmon and parmesan both add natural saltiness.
Add a handful of greens (like spinach or arugula) for a fresh, peppery touch.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be gently reheated with a splash of liquid to revive the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: European-Inspired, Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg