I like recipes that look like I made an effort but are actually ready in 20 minutes.
This pesto gnocchi with smoked salmon is exactly that. You only need to cook the gnocchi, wilt the spinach, and mix everything with pesto.
The smoked salmon adds enough flavor that the recipe doesn’t need many other ingredients. I add it at the end so it warms up without becoming dry, then finish the dish with Parmesan and a little lemon juice.
This is an easy dinner for busy evenings, but it also looks nice enough to serve when someone comes over. Just keep in mind that both smoked salmon and Parmesan are salty, so taste it before adding any extra salt.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb potato gnocchi
- ¾ cup basil pesto
- 6 oz smoked salmon, cut into pieces
- 2 cups baby spinach
- ⅓ cup grated or shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup reserved gnocchi cooking water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or additional spinach leaves for serving, optional
Instructions
1. Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to the package directions.
The gnocchi are usually ready when they float to the surface. Before draining, reserve about ¼ cup of the cooking water.
2. Wilt the Spinach
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring until it begins to wilt.
3. Add the Gnocchi
Drain the gnocchi and add them to the skillet. Stir gently to combine them with the spinach.
4. Add the Pesto
Reduce the heat to low. Add the pesto and a few tablespoons of the reserved cooking water. Stir gently until the gnocchi are evenly coated.
Add more cooking water if the pesto is too thick.
5. Add the Smoked Salmon
Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the smoked salmon and lemon juice, then gently fold everything together.
The heat from the gnocchi will warm the salmon without overcooking it.
6. Serve
Divide the pesto gnocchi between plates. Finish with Parmesan, black pepper, and a few fresh basil or spinach leaves.
Tips
- Add the pesto over low heat so it keeps its fresh flavor and color.
- Smoked salmon and Parmesan are both salty, so taste the dish before adding any extra salt.
- Do not cook the smoked salmon for long. It only needs to be warmed through.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream before adding the pesto.
- Serve immediately, as gnocchi can become soft if left sitting in the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular salmon instead of smoked salmon?
Yes. Cook fresh salmon separately, break it into bite-sized pieces, and gently fold it into the gnocchi before serving. Make sure it is fully cooked before adding it.
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes. Cook frozen gnocchi directly from frozen according to the package directions. You do not need to thaw them first.
Can I use homemade pesto?
Yes. Homemade basil pesto works very well, but store-bought pesto keeps the recipe quick. Taste it before adding salt because some brands are already quite salty.
What can I use instead of spinach?
Fresh arugula, basil, or kale can be used instead. Kale needs a little longer to soften, while arugula and basil should be added at the end.
Can I make this dish creamy?
Yes. Stir about ¼ cup of heavy cream into the skillet before adding the pesto. Keep the heat low so the sauce does not separate.
Should smoked salmon be cooked?
Smoked salmon is ready to eat, so it only needs to be gently warmed. Add it after removing the skillet from the heat to prevent it from becoming dry.
What can I serve with pesto gnocchi?
Serve it with a green salad, roasted vegetables, asparagus, or garlic bread. Since gnocchi are already quite filling, a light side dish works best.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
How do I reheat the gnocchi?
Reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or cream to loosen the pesto sauce. Avoid high heat because it can dry out the salmon.
Can I freeze pesto gnocchi with smoked salmon?
Freezing is not recommended. The gnocchi can become soft after thawing, and the smoked salmon may lose its texture. This dish is best eaten fresh.