A plate of Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta with cherry tomatoes, spinach, and shrimp, garnished with basil and Parmesan.

Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe: A Flavorful and Easy Weeknight Dinner

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Looking for a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights? This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta recipe is here to save the day! Packed with fresh flavors, succulent shrimp, and vibrant veggies, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details!

Why You’ll Love This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
  • Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with protein from shrimp, vitamins from spinach, and antioxidants from tomatoes.
  • Versatile: Customize it with your favorite pasta or add a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.
  • Restaurant-Quality at Home: A gourmet-style dish that’s simple to make and budget-friendly.
Shrimp cooking in a skillet with olive oil and garlic for Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta.
Succulent shrimp sautéed to perfection, ready to be added to the pasta.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta:

  • 12 oz (340g) pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or penne work well)
  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2: Prepare the Shrimp

  1. While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Shrimp cooking in a skillet with olive oil and garlic for Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta.
Succulent shrimp sautéed to perfection, ready to be added to the pasta.

3: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
  3. Toss in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.

4: Create the Sauce

  1. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
  2. Add the red pepper flakes (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

5: Combine Everything

  1. Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together until well-coated in the sauce.
  2. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Divide the pasta among serving plates.
  2. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta!

Tips for the Perfect Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp, spinach, and tomatoes make a huge difference in flavor.
  • Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid rubbery texture.
  • Customize It: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra veggies.
  • Make It Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
A close-up of linguine pasta twirled on a fork, coated in creamy tomato spinach sauce with shrimp.
A mouthwatering close-up of the Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta, showcasing its rich and creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.

3. Is there a dairy-free alternative for the heavy cream?
Absolutely! You can use coconut milk or a plant-based cream substitute for a dairy-free version.

4. What type of pasta works best?
Linguine, spaghetti, or penne are great options, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.

5. Can I add other proteins?
Yes! Chicken, scallops, or even tofu can be used as a substitute for shrimp.

Final Thoughts

This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. It’s a versatile recipe that you can tweak to suit your preferences, making it a go-to for any occasion. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations with us in the comments below!

Bon appétit! 🍤🍝

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