Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta

This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful and healthy dish featuring tender shrimp, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach tossed with pasta in a garlic butter sauce. Light yet satisfying, this easy-to-make pasta is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.
• Fresh and flavorful – A perfect balance of garlic, lemon, and Parmesan.
• Healthy and satisfying – Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• Versatile – Works with different pasta types or gluten-free alternatives.
• Restaurant-quality meal at home – Simple ingredients, gourmet results.

Ingredients

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

For the Pasta

• 8 oz spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
• 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water

For the Shrimp and Sauce

• 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, for spice)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 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 pasta water, then drain and set 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 shrimp from the pan and set aside.

3. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

• In the same skillet, add garlic and cherry tomatoes.
• Sauté for about 2 minutes until the tomatoes soften.

4. Add Spinach and Combine

• Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
• Add red pepper flakes (if using).

5. Toss Everything Together

• Return the shrimp to the pan.
• Add the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and lemon juice.
• Toss everything together until well combined.

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

• Creamy Version – Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream for a richer sauce.
• Low-Carb Option – Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
• Extra Protein – Add grilled chicken or scallops.
• Spicy Kick – Increase red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce.
• Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pasta or quinoa.

Storage/Reheating

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

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti, linguine, penne, or fettuccine all work well.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Increase 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?

Garlic bread, a side salad, 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 white wine before adding the tomatoes 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

This 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!