This shrimp pasta dish is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy tomatoes, delicate spinach, and succulent shrimp, all wrapped in a flavorful, garlic-infused sauce. The combination of textures—from the tender pasta to the slightly crispy shrimp—makes every bite an experience.
Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this meal is a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple to prepare yet packed with flavor, and the vibrant colors of the tomatoes and spinach make it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
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2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions:
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Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
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Add spinach and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes until spinach wilts.
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Return shrimp to the skillet, and add the cooked pasta. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach the desired sauce consistency.
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Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Appeal of Shrimp Pasta
There’s something special about a pasta dish that can be both light and hearty at the same time. Shrimp, with its delicate sweetness and tender texture, pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables like spinach and tomatoes. The garlic and olive oil-based sauce enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients without overpowering them, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and refreshing. Unlike many pasta dishes that are heavy on cream and cheese, this shrimp tomato spinach pasta is a lighter alternative that is still incredibly satisfying.
Not only does this dish offer a great combination of flavors, but it’s also incredibly quick and easy to prepare. From start to finish, you can have this dish on the table in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still want something delicious and nutritious.
Why Shrimp?
Shrimp is often referred to as the “chicken of the sea,” and for good reason. It is an excellent source of lean protein, providing essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and iodine. Adding shrimp to your pasta not only elevates the dish but also turns it into a satisfying, protein-packed meal. Shrimp cooks quickly, making it an ideal protein choice for a weeknight dinner, and its naturally sweet flavor complements a wide range of seasonings, from garlic and lemon to herbs and spices.
Moreover, shrimp is versatile and pairs well with many vegetables, which is why it works so perfectly in this dish. The mild shrimp flavor doesn’t compete with the boldness of the tomatoes or the earthiness of the spinach, creating a harmonious balance in each bite.
The Importance of Fresh Ingredients
Like any great pasta dish, the key to making shrimp tomato spinach pasta truly shine lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Opt for fresh spinach and ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes to ensure that the flavor profile of your dish is as vibrant as possible. The sweetness of the tomatoes adds a wonderful contrast to the savory garlic sauce, while the spinach brings a dose of nutrients and a pop of color.
If possible, use fresh, uncooked shrimp rather than frozen shrimp. Fresh shrimp has a firmer texture and a cleaner, sweeter taste, which can make all the difference in a dish like this. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them properly before cooking to avoid a watery texture that can affect the sauce.
Perfecting the Sauce
The sauce for this dish is simple yet full of flavor. Olive oil and garlic form the base of the sauce, infusing the dish with a fragrant, savory aroma. As the garlic gently cooks in the oil, it releases its natural sweetness, creating a rich, aromatic foundation for the rest of the ingredients. Adding in the cherry tomatoes allows them to soften and burst, releasing their juices and creating a light, flavorful sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
The spinach, added towards the end of the cooking process, wilts down and absorbs the flavors of the garlic and tomatoes, adding both texture and a nutritional boost. A touch of red pepper flakes can be added for a mild kick, but the dish is still satisfying without the extra heat, making it a great option for those who prefer a milder flavor.
Pasta: The Perfect Vehicle
Choosing the right pasta for this dish is important. While you can use any pasta you like, long noodles such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine are often the best choice for shrimp pasta dishes. These noodles work particularly well in absorbing the sauce, allowing each bite to be rich and satisfying. Short pasta like penne or rigatoni can also work well, especially if you prefer something more substantial.
When cooking pasta, always remember to salt your water generously to enhance the pasta’s flavor. This is the only chance to season the pasta itself, and it makes a significant difference in the overall flavor of the dish. Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, so it maintains a bit of bite and doesn’t become overly soft when tossed in the sauce.
Making It Your Own
One of the best things about this shrimp tomato spinach pasta is how customizable it is. You can easily add other vegetables or ingredients based on what you have on hand or what you prefer. For example, zucchini or bell peppers can be added for more texture and flavor. A sprinkle of feta or goat cheese can add a creamy, tangy element that complements the shrimp and tomatoes beautifully.
If you’re looking for extra protein, you can easily substitute or add other seafood like scallops or mussels. If you prefer a completely vegetarian version, simply omit the shrimp and make a tomato and spinach pasta that is still equally satisfying. The garlic and olive oil sauce serves as a great base for a variety of combinations.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
To complete your meal, consider pairing this shrimp tomato spinach pasta with a fresh side salad. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta. For an extra touch, serve with some warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
This pasta also pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine, such as a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a twist of lemon is a refreshing alternative that complements the dish without overpowering it.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Pasta
Shrimp tomato spinach pasta is the perfect dish for those who crave a healthy, flavorful meal that doesn’t take a lot of time to prepare. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and light yet satisfying flavors, it’s a dish that will quickly become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. The combination of shrimp, tomatoes, spinach, and garlic creates a dish that is both comforting and refreshing, while the versatility allows you to customize it to suit your taste preferences.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just looking to treat yourself to something delicious, this shrimp pasta recipe is sure to impress. With its vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and bold flavors, it’s a dish that truly shines. So, grab your ingredients and start cooking—this shrimp tomato spinach pasta is waiting to be enjoyed!