Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta

Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a light yet flavorful dish featuring tender shrimp, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach tossed with pasta in a garlic butter sauce. Finished with a touch of lemon and Parmesan, this quick and easy meal is perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.
• Light yet satisfying – A perfect balance of protein, veggies, and carbs.
• Bursting with flavor – Garlic, lemon, and Parmesan enhance every bite.
• Versatile – Can be made with any pasta type or adjusted for dietary needs.
• Great for seafood lovers – Shrimp adds a delicious, elegant touch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 oz spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup pasta water (reserved)
• Juice of ½ lemon

Directions

1. Cook the pasta – Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
2. Cook the shrimp – Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté garlic and tomatoes – In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 2 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
4. Add spinach – Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted. If using, add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
5. Combine everything – Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, then add the drained pasta, reserved pasta water, and lemon juice. Toss everything together until well coated.
6. Serve – Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pasta.
• Low-Carb Version – Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Extra Creamy – Add ¼ cup of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese.
• Different Protein – Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken or scallops.
• Add More Veggies – Mushrooms, bell peppers, or asparagus would be great additions.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp and pasta may become rubbery when thawed.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti, linguine, fettuccine, or penne all work well in this dish.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How can I make this spicier?

Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, but drain them well to prevent excess liquid in the sauce.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great pairings.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can cook the shrimp and prep the veggies in advance.

How do I keep shrimp from getting rubbery?

Avoid overcooking—shrimp only needs 2-3 minutes per side until pink.

Can I add white wine to the sauce?

Yes, deglaze the pan with ¼ cup of white wine before adding spinach for extra depth of flavor.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end just to warm through to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a simple yet elegant dish packed with fresh flavors and vibrant ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Light, delicious, and easy to prepare, it’s a must-try for any pasta lover!