This Easy Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a tasty dish that combines shrimp, vibrant spinach, and juicy tomatoes. It’s quick to make and full of flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using linguine or spaghetti for a classic touch. Penne works too! If gluten-free is your goal, you can substitute it with gluten-free pasta. The cooking time may vary slightly, so check the package.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is fantastic, but frozen shrimp works just as well. Just remember to thaw them first. If you’re avoiding seafood, try using chicken or a mix of veggies for protein.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil brings great flavor. If you prefer, you could use avocado oil or a light oil for cooking. Both will work perfectly!
Cherry Tomatoes: These are flavorful and sweet! If you can’t find them, diced canned tomatoes or regular diced tomatoes are decent substitutes. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best, but you can also use other greens like kale or Swiss chard. If using frozen spinach, make sure to squeeze out excess water before adding it.
How Do I Cook the Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s quick and easy if you follow these steps! The key is to avoid overcooking, which can make them chewy.
- Heat oil in the skillet and add shrimp in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd, or they won’t sear properly.
- Cook for about 2 minutes on each side. They’ll turn pink and opaque when done!
- Remove them from the skillet as soon as they are fully cooked to prevent drying out.
Remember, shrimp only needs a short cooking time. Timing is everything for a tender bite!
What’s the Best Way to Add Flavor to the Dish?
To enhance the flavors in this pasta, consider these tips:
- Using fresh garlic adds a burst of flavor. Make sure not to burn it.
- Add red pepper flakes if you like some heat. You can adjust to your taste!
- Toss in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving for extra freshness.
These small touches elevate the pasta and make dinner feel special!
Easy Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Seafood:
- 8 ounces pasta (such as linguine, spaghetti, or penne)
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables and Oils:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cups fresh spinach
Seasoning:
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Toppings:
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and shrimp, and another 15 minutes sautéing the veggies and tossing everything together. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is bubbling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—this usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Remember to save 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
While the pasta cooks, take a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet, season them with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they become pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Throw in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Add the Tomatoes:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for around 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juicy goodness into the pan.
5. Incorporate the Spinach:
Now, stir in the fresh spinach. Cook it for about 2 minutes until it wilts down nicely. If you’re enjoying a bit of spice, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes at this point.
6. Combine and Toss:
Return the cooked shrimp back to the skillet, and then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding a little of the reserved pasta water as needed to create a lovely sauce that coats the pasta.
7. Season and Serve:
Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve your delicious pasta immediately, topped with optional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a delightful touch.
Enjoy your flavorful and easy-to-make tomato spinach shrimp pasta! It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want a quick yet delicious meal. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works great! Just make sure to thaw them fully before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quick thawing.
How Do I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the shrimp with chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms. Just cook them alongside the garlic for a hearty alternative. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, farfalle, or even whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking times on the package for best results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can add a splash of water or olive oil to help revive the sauce!