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A plate of gnocchi with spinach pesto topped with cheese, held by a person indoors.
Stovetop~25 minComplexity

Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi with Pesto Salmon

Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi with Pesto Salmon provides only 3g protein and 141 calories per serving — a vegetable-forward side rather than a protein main. Quick stovetop assembly for 4 servings works as a volume filler. Combine this with a separate protein source to hit your daily targets.

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Ingredients

4 servings
  • Cauliflower Gnocchi, Frozen
  • Kale(142g)
  • Olive oil(30g)

    Regular (not extra-virgin) olive oil for high-heat cooking. EVOO for dressings.

  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (divided)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Salmon
  • Basil Pesto, Prepared(60g)

Instructions

  1. 1Pat the salmon dry with paper towels and set aside. Roughly chop the kale into bite-sized pieces.
  2. 2Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 1–2 minutes until shimmering. Add the cauliflower gnocchi and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden and starting to soften.
  3. 3Push the gnocchi to the sides of the skillet, then add the kale to the center. Cook for 2–3 minutes over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the kale begins to wilt and soften. Toss the gnocchi and kale together.
  4. 4Clear a space in the center of the skillet and carefully place the salmon skin-side down. Brush the top of each salmon fillet with 1 tablespoon of basil pesto. Cook over medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (checked with an instant-read thermometer at the thickest part), the skin crisps, and the flesh is opaque and flakes easily.
  5. 5If the gnocchi needs more browning after the salmon is cooked, transfer the salmon to a plate, cover with foil, and continue cooking the gnocchi and kale for 2–3 minutes more over medium-high heat until golden brown.
  6. 6Return the salmon to the skillet or divide everything evenly into 4 airtight containers while hot.
  7. 7Drizzle additional basil pesto over the salmon, gnocchi, and kale.
  8. 8Serve immediately or seal containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Nutrition — Per Serving

141

calories

3g

protein

14g

fat

Carbohydrates
3g
Saturated fat
2.2g
Sodium
109 mg
Dietary fiber
1.7g

4 servings per batch · ~58g each

Macro data sourced from USDA FoodData Central

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Common questions

How much protein does Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi with Pesto Salmon have?

This recipe contains only 3g of protein per serving with 141 calories, making it primarily a side dish or light appetizer rather than a protein-focused meal. It's macro profile is 14g fat and 3g carbs.

How long does Cauliflower Gnocchi with Pesto Salmon take to make?

This is a quick prep recipe on the stovetop that yields 4 servings, allowing you to prepare multiple portions rapidly when you need a low-calorie component for a larger meal.

Is Cauliflower Gnocchi with Pesto Salmon good for fat loss?

At only 141 calories per serving with minimal protein (3g), this recipe functions best as a low-calorie vegetable-based side rather than a standalone meal for fat loss. Pair it with a higher-protein component to create a complete macro-balanced plate.

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