Name: Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or your preferred pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 4 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

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Introduction

This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that comes together quickly for a satisfying meal. Juicy shrimp, fresh spinach, and sweet cherry tomatoes combine with tender pasta in a light, garlicky sauce perfect for any night of the week.

A black bowl holds a creamy pasta dish with three visible layers: the bottom layer is thick, pale yellow noodles spread evenly; the middle layer consists of bright green spinach leaves and halved cherry tomatoes showing a shiny red interior; the top layer has several pink-orange cooked shrimp scattered around, lightly seasoned with black pepper and topped with a sprinkling of grated white cheese. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti or your preferred pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
4 cups fresh spinach
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 3: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant, then add the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until tomatoes soften and start to release their juices.
Step 4: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and let it wilt. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring and scraping any bits from the pan. Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes.
Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine and coat the pasta in the sauce. If the sauce seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 6: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together until heated through.
Step 7: Serve the pasta divided into bowls, topped with grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy immediately while hot.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine when sautéing the garlic and tomatoes.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten sensitivities.
If you like a bit of heat, include the optional red pepper flakes when cooking the shrimp.
Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu to suit your preference.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. This pasta is best enjoyed fresh but reheats well.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with three layers: at the bottom a light yellow creamy fettuccine pasta, in the middle bright red cherry tomatoes and dark green spinach leaves, and on top, round, cooked shrimp with a pink and white color, sprinkled with grated white cheese and black pepper. The bowl rests on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Thaw them completely before cooking and pat dry to ensure they sear properly.

Is it necessary to reserve the pasta water?

Reserving some pasta water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency, making it silky and coating the pasta evenly. It’s a helpful step but can be skipped if preferred.