Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Looking for a vibrant, healthy, and delicious meal that’s quick and easy to prepare? This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe is the perfect choice! With succulent shrimp, fresh spinach, juicy tomatoes, and a light garlic sauce, this dish is bursting with flavors while staying light. Whether you need a meal for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner party, this shrimp pasta dish will leave everyone satisfied.
In this article, we’ll guide you through each step, ensuring you create a dish that’s both nutritious and full of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes per side until they are pink and fully cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices.
Step 4: Deglaze with Wine (Optional)
If you’re using white wine, pour it into the skillet and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer for about 2 minutes until it reduces slightly, intensifying the flavors.
Step 5: Add Spinach and Shrimp
Once the tomatoes have softened, stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the shrimp, tomatoes, and spinach. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Step 7: Add Parmesan and Seasoning
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using) for a touch of heat. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Continue to toss everything together until well combined and the cheese has melted into the sauce.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove the pasta from the heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve the Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta immediately with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan on top.
Tips for the Perfect Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta
Use Fresh Ingredients
For the best flavor, use fresh spinach, garlic, and shrimp. Fresh ingredients will give your pasta a vibrant taste that canned or frozen alternatives can’t match.
Cook the Pasta Al Dente
To avoid overcooked pasta, always aim for an al dente texture. This ensures that the pasta holds up well when mixed with the shrimp and sauce.
Don’t Skip the Pasta Water
The starchy pasta water helps to bind the sauce and pasta together, creating a smoother, creamier consistency. Be sure to reserve some before draining the pasta!
Customize Your Dish
Feel free to get creative with this dish! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even swap out shrimp for chicken or scallops if you prefer.
Serving Suggestions
With Garlic Bread
Pair this delicious shrimp pasta with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. It’s a perfect match!
With a Side Salad
For a lighter option, serve this pasta with a simple green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. The acidity of the salad balances the richness of the pasta beautifully.
With a Glass of White Wine
A crisp, chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc will complement the shrimp and tomato flavors nicely.
Conclusion
This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of fresh spinach, juicy tomatoes, and tender shrimp in a light garlic sauce is irresistible. Plus, with minimal ingredients and less than 30 minutes of cook time, it’s an easy dish that will leave your family or guests impressed.
Try this recipe out, and you’ll soon find it becoming a staple in your meal rotation!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they cook properly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and make sure your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free as well.
What can I use instead of white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth for added flavor without the alcohol.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, this dish works well with different types of pasta like penne, fettuccine, or rotini. Choose your favorite!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Looking for a vibrant, healthy, and delicious meal that’s quick and easy to prepare? This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe is the perfect choice! With succulent shrimp, fresh spinach, juicy tomatoes, and a light garlic sauce, this dish is bursting with flavors while staying light. Whether you need a meal for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner party, this shrimp pasta dish will leave everyone satisfied.
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. - Cook the Shrimp:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. - Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. - Wilt the Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. - Make the Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. - Combine Everything:
Add the cooked shrimp and drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta with the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. - Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on the side.