This Easy Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With juicy shrimp, fresh spinach, and bright tomatoes, it’s colorful and delicious!
I love how everything comes together in just one pan! Toss it all in, let it cook, and your dinner is ready. Now, who doesn’t love less clean-up? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: You can use any kind of pasta you love! I often go for penne because its shape holds onto the sauce well. If you need a gluten-free option, try rice or quinoa pasta.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp gives the best flavor, but frozen shrimp work just as well. Just make sure to thaw them properly beforehand. You can also swap shrimp for chicken or even chickpeas if you want a vegetarian option!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness to the dish. If you can’t find them, any diced tomatoes would do the trick. You can also use sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great here, but if you have frozen spinach, it works too. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess water in the dish.
Parmesan Cheese: While I love Parmesan, you could use Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option!
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but once you get the hang of it, it’s simple! The key is to cook them until they’re just pink and opaque to avoid overcooking. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet with oil and garlic, and make sure the pan is good and hot.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer, letting them cook without stirring for 1-2 minutes.
- Flip them over and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they’ve turned pink and curl slightly.
- Remove them as soon as they’re done to keep them tender!
If you follow these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked shrimp every time!
Easy Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
For the Shrimp and Vegetables:
- 1 lb (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cups fresh spinach
For Seasoning:
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish takes approximately 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, making it a perfect option for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, add the raw shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little spice. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Prepare the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Let them cook for around 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices. Then, add the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2 minutes.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and stir everything together to combine. Then, add in your drained pasta, tossing all the ingredients to mix well. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is evenly mixed, remove from heat. If you’d like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Easy Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta!
FAQ About Easy Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen shrimp, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can place them in the fridge overnight or seal them in a plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for quick thawing.
Can I Substitute Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to swap in other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on how long those veggies take to soften.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta. There are plenty of delicious options made from rice, quinoa, or legumes available in stores!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
