Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender shrimp, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes, it’s a light yet satisfying meal that comes together in no time.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Step 4: In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Step 5: Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Step 6: Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together with the cooked pasta. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.
- Step 7: Serve warm, optionally garnished with grated Parmesan or fresh herbs.
Tips & Variations
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Swap spinach for kale or arugula for a different leafy green flavor.
- Freshly squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the dish before serving to brighten the flavors.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil if the pasta seems dry.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just thaw completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
What type of pasta is best for this dish?
Any pasta shape you like works well, but spaghetti, linguine, or penne are popular choices that pair nicely with the sauce and ingredients.
PrintTomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe
This vibrant Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a quick and delicious meal combining tender shrimp, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes with al dente pasta, all tossed in a flavorful garlic and olive oil sauce. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, it balances protein, vegetables, and carbs in one satisfying dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Shrimp and Pasta
- 12 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or spaghetti)
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they soften.
- Add Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until just wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Toss Everything Together: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, add the drained pasta, and toss everything together to combine well. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Plate the pasta immediately while warm. Optionally garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor, but frozen thawed shrimp works well too.
- You can substitute spinach with other leafy greens like kale or arugula if preferred.
- Add a splash of white wine when sautéing garlic and tomatoes for extra depth.
- This dish pairs nicely with a light green salad and crusty bread.
Keywords: shrimp pasta, tomato spinach pasta, quick shrimp dinner, healthy pasta recipe, garlic shrimp pasta
