Healthy Smoked Salmon Gnocchi

The first time I made this dish was on a rainy Tuesday when I wanted something luxurious but not heavy. The way the smoky salmon melts into the tangy cream sauce still feels like a little kitchen magic to me.

I served this to my sister last month when she came over exhausted from work and watched her shoulders actually drop as she took that first bite. Sometimes food is just comfort disguised as something fancy.

Ingredients

• Whole wheat or potato gnocchi: Store bought saves time but homemade adds an extra touch of love to this dish
• Olive oil: A gentle base for building flavors without overpowering the delicate salmon
• Garlic and shallot: These aromatics create the savory foundation that makes everything taste better
• Baby spinach: Wilts beautifully into the sauce adding nutrition without a bitter greens taste
• Low fat crème fraîche or Greek yogurt: Gives that luxurious creamy texture while keeping things lighter
• Lemon zest and juice: The secret ingredient that cuts through the richness and makes flavors pop
• Fresh dill: This herb pairs perfectly with smoked salmon and adds bright freshness
• Smoked salmon: The star of the show bringing deep smoky flavor without any cooking needed
• Fresh chives: A finishing touch that adds mild onion flavor and beautiful color

Instructions

Cook the gnocchi:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add gnocchi cooking until they float to the surface like happy little pillows

Sauté the aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat adding garlic and shallot until they become fragrant and translucent

Wilt the spinach:

Add the chopped spinach to the skillet stirring gently until it just collapses into the aromatics about one minute

Build the sauce:

Reduce heat to low and stir in crème fraîche lemon zest lemon juice salt pepper and half the dill creating a silky sauce

Combine everything:

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet tossing gently to coat each piece in that lovely creamy sauce

Add the salmon:

Remove from heat and fold in the smoked salmon strips letting the residual heat warm them without overcooking

Finish and serve:

Divide among plates and sprinkle with remaining dill and chives serving with extra lemon wedges on the side

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This recipe has become my go to when I want to make someone feel special without spending hours in the kitchen. It is proof that simple ingredients handled with care can create something extraordinary.

Making It Your Own

I have tried swapping spinach for arugula when I wanted more peppery bite and it was absolutely delicious. The sauce is forgiving and welcomes whatever greens you have on hand.

Perfect Pairings

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness beautifully but honestly sometimes I just serve it with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette to keep things light.

Storage and Make Ahead Tips

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but the sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just warm it gently before adding the gnocchi and salmon.

• Never refrigerate leftover gnocchi in the sauce or they will absorb all the liquid and become gummy
• Store smoked salmon separately from the sauce if making components ahead
• Bring everything to room temperature before reheating for the best texture

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I hope this recipe becomes part of your comfort food rotation too bringing a little elegance to your everyday table.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this dish?

Yes, both store-bought and homemade gnocchi work well. Cook according to package instructions until they float to ensure proper texture.

→ What can I substitute for baby spinach?

Arugula or kale are great alternatives that add a different but complementary flavor to the sauce.

→ How do I prevent the smoked salmon from overcooking?

Fold the smoked salmon into the dish off the heat, allowing residual warmth to gently warm the fish without cooking it.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for the sauce?

Yes, you can use a plant-based yogurt or skip the crème fraîche entirely for a dairy-free version.

→ What herbs complement this dish best?

Fresh dill and chives are ideal to brighten flavors and complement the smoked salmon perfectly.