Trader Joes Cauliflower Gnocchi with Pesto Salmon

If you’re looking for a quick yet impressive weeknight dinner, look no further than this delightful dish featuring Trader Joes Cauliflower Gnocchi with Pesto Salmon. Combining the light, fluffy texture of cauliflower gnocchi with the rich, savory flavors of salmon and pesto makes for a meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, with minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

The beauty of Trader Joes Cauliflower Gnocchi with Pesto Salmon lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s not only packed with flavor but can also easily accommodate your dietary preferences. The gnocchi is gluten-free, and the salmon provides a hearty dose of omega-3 fatty acids. On top of that, the addition of kale adds a nutritious crunch, making this dish not just a meal but a wholesome experience. And once you taste how the creamy pesto envelops the gnocchi and salmon, you’ll understand why this recipe is one you’ll want to repeat again and again.

What Goes In

To prepare this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 (14-ounce) bag frozen Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi (do not thaw)
• 5 ounces Trader Joe’s Chopped Tuscan Kale
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets or 3 (8-ounce fillets)
• ½ cup Trader Joe’s Kale Cashew & Basil Pesto or Pesto Genovese, plus additional for serving

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Large skillet: For sautéing the gnocchi and salmon.
• Spatula: To easily flip and serve the salmon.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Serving plates: For an elegant presentation.

Trader Joes Cauliflower Gnocchi with Pesto Salmon: Step-by-Step Guide

Now let’s dive into the cooking process!

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure your frozen gnocchi is ready to go, and have your kale chopped. It’s always nice to have everything within arm’s reach when you start cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt and ground black pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon to the skillet, skin-side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip the fillets and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Gnocchi

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the frozen cauliflower gnocchi directly to the pan—no need to thaw! Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes without stirring, allowing them to get crispy on one side. Then, gently stir and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until golden brown and heated through.

Step 4: Add the Kale

Once the gnocchi is cooked, add the chopped Tuscan kale to the skillet. Season with the remaining ¼ teaspoon kosher salt and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the kale has wilted and is tender.

Step 5: Combine with Pesto

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the pesto, coating the gnocchi and kale evenly. Allow everything to heat through for a minute or two.

Step 6: Serve

To serve, place a generous portion of the gnocchi and kale mixture on each plate, top with a salmon fillet, and drizzle with additional pesto if desired. Enjoy your Trader Joes Cauliflower Gnocchi with Pesto Salmon!

Ingredient Flex Options

Feel free to customize this dish to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the salmon for tuna or shrimp for a different protein option.
• Use different greens like spinach or Swiss chard instead of kale.
• If you’re not a fan of pesto, try a creamy sauce or a simple garlic butter sauce.
• Add cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Pro Perspective

• For optimal flavor, let your salmon rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This keeps it moist and tender.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the gnocchi; this allows them to crisp up nicely.
• Using a high-quality pesto can elevate the dish significantly. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade pesto is a great option!
• If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the salmon while it cooks.

Storage Pro Tips

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

Allow the gnocchi and salmon to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Note that the texture of the gnocchi may change slightly upon reheating, but the flavors will still be delicious.

Handy Q&A

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of frozen?

Yes, you can! If using fresh gnocchi, reduce the cooking time accordingly, as fresh gnocchi cooks much quicker than frozen.

What other vegetables can I add to this dish?

Feel free to incorporate a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, asparagus, or even peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components (cook the salmon and gnocchi) ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish holds up well and can be a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.

More from the Kitchen

• Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon Pasta
• Pesto Potato Salad
• Creamy Pesto Shrimp Linguine

Wrap-Up

In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious and nutritious meal that will impress anyone at your dining table. The combination of Trader Joes Cauliflower Gnocchi with Pesto Salmon not only tantalizes your taste buds but also nourishes your body. Don’t be surprised if this becomes a staple in your weekly meal rotation! Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the ease of preparation that this recipe offers, and happy cooking!