Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors and comes together in a flash, you need to try this Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta. It combines juicy shrimp, sweet grape tomatoes, and fresh baby spinach with perfectly cooked pasta for a meal that’s light yet satisfyingly rich. The blend of garlic, olive oil, and just the right touch of Italian seasoning creates a simple sauce that’s so much more than just the sum of its parts. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is bound to become one of your go-to recipes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward, each playing a vital role in the dish’s texture, taste, and color. You’ll love how the fresh and pantry staples combine seamlessly to create something delicious.

• 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti: Classic pasta that soaks up the sauce beautifully, giving you that perfect bite every time.
• 1 pound uncooked shrimp (31-40/pound size), thawed, peeled, and tails removed if desired: Tender and sweet, shrimp add a wonderful protein punch without weighing down the dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps infuse the garlic and tomatoes with flavor as they cook.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Provides a silky finish to the sauce, rounding out the acidity of the tomatoes.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic’s fragrant aroma and sharp flavor elevate this pasta from simple to sensational.
• 10 ounces grape tomatoes, halved: Their natural sweetness and juiciness bring a burst of color and freshness to every forkful.
• ¼ cup chicken broth: Adds depth and a bit of moisture to help create a luscious, saucy coating.
• ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A carefully balanced herb blend that gives the dish an authentic Italian flair.
• 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach: Adds a tender leafy green element, balancing the dish while keeping it light.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.

How to Make Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cooking your spaghetti al dente is key—it should be tender but still have a slight bite to complement the saucy shrimp mixture perfectly. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside; you can reserve a little pasta water for adjusting the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and butter together over medium-high heat in a skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté it just until fragrant—about 30 seconds. This quick step unlocks the garlic’s wonderful aroma without letting it turn bitter.

Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes and Broth

Next, toss in the halved grape tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the tomatoes soften and release their juices, creating a naturally sweet and savory base for your sauce.

Step 4: Add the Shrimp and Spinach

Now it’s time to add the shrimp and the fresh baby spinach to the skillet. Turn the heat down to medium and cook for another 5 minutes or so, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the spinach wilts down into vibrant green goodness. This step ensures your shrimp are perfectly juicy and your greens stay tender but not overdone.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Season the shrimp and spinach mixture with salt and pepper to suit your taste, then toss it with the cooked spaghetti. If it feels a bit dry, add some of the reserved pasta water a splash at a time to achieve the ideal sauce consistency. This final step brings everything together beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta immediately while it’s warm and comforting. If you like, sprinkle on extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs for a lovely finishing touch. Every forkful is a perfect balance of succulent shrimp, tangy tomatoes, and leafy spinach wrapped in pasta perfection.

How to Serve Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta

Garnishes

Adding garnishes elevates your Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta from great to show-stopping. Freshly grated Parmesan is always a winner, melting delightfully into the warm pasta. A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley adds a beautiful pop of color and herbaceous brightness. For a touch of luxury, a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the whole dish.

Side Dishes

This pasta shines best with sides that complement without stealing the spotlight. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, bringing a refreshing crunch. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce. Roasted vegetables or a simple steamed broccoli can add extra color and nutrition to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow guests, serve the Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta in shallow bowls, letting the colors of the tomatoes and spinach pop. You could also twirl portions onto individual plates for a restaurant-style presentation. For an elegant touch, garnish with edible flowers or microgreens. Remember, a little creativity in plating makes the meal feel even more special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing to maintain flavor and texture. The shrimp and spinach hold up well, but the pasta may absorb some sauce, so give it a gentle toss before reheating.

Freezing

While freezing pasta dishes with shrimp is possible, it’s best to do so sparingly as shrimp can sometimes become rubbery after thawing. If you want to freeze it, store the pasta and sauce separately from the spinach and shrimp if you can. Freeze in airtight containers and consume within a month for best quality.

Reheating

Reheat your Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta gently on the stove over medium-low heat to prevent the shrimp from overcooking. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce as it warms. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps maintain the dish’s fresh flavors and texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw your frozen shrimp completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture in your Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt works well. The idea is to add some moisture and subtle flavor without overpowering the dish.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the shrimp and perhaps add sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein to keep it hearty and tasty.

How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp?

Shrimp cook very quickly, usually in just a few minutes. Keep an eye on their color—they should turn pink and opaque and curl slightly, but avoid cooking them too long as they can become tough.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Definitely! Adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or a dash of hot sauce at the end can give your Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta a delightful kick.

Final Thoughts

This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is truly one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again. It’s fresh, flavorful, and comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy nights or when you want to impress without stress. I hope you enjoy every bite as much as I do, and I can’t wait to hear how you put your own spin on this delicious dish!

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