Shrimp, Tomato, and Spinach Pasta
Description:
This Shrimp, Tomato, and Spinach Pasta is a light yet flavorful dish that comes together quickly for a perfect weeknight dinner. Succulent shrimp are sautéed with garlic and tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach. All are combined with al dente pasta and a splash of white wine or lemon juice to brighten the dish. It’s nutritious, satisfying, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
For the Pasta:
8 oz (225g) linguine or spaghetti
1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
For the Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for richness)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cups fresh baby spinach
1/4 cup dry white wine or 2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
Add garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for 30 seconds.
Add shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper.
Cook for 2–3 minutes per side or until opaque and pink. Remove and set aside.
Cook Tomatoes and Spinach:
In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until softened.
Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Pour in wine or lemon juice to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits.
Combine Everything:
Return shrimp to skillet. Add cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Toss everything to combine. Add Parmesan if using.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve:
Divide among plates. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~450 kcal
Protein 32g
Carbohydrates 42g
Fat 18g
Saturated Fat 5g
Fiber 4g
Sugars 4g
Sodium ~600mg
Cholesterol 180mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and exact ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes! Just thaw completely before cooking and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture.
Q: What can I substitute for wine?
A: You can use lemon juice or chicken broth to deglaze the pan and add acidity.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: It’s best fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Q: Is this recipe dairy-free?
A: Yes, if you skip the butter and Parmesan cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
Q: What pasta works best with this dish?
A: Linguine or spaghetti is ideal, but penne or fettuccine also work well.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. Use your favorite glu
ten-free pasta