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Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe

4.6 from 99 reviews

A vibrant and healthy Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta that combines succulent shrimp, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes tossed in a light garlic olive oil sauce. This easy stovetop dish comes together quickly for a flavorful meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz spaghetti or your preferred pasta

Shrimp and Sauce

  • 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)

For Serving

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve about 1/2 cup of the cooking water for later use.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften and begin releasing their juices.
  4. Add Spinach and Broth: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until it wilts. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine and scraping up any brown bits from the pan to enhance flavor. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 2 minutes.
  5. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it well with the sauce. If the sauce seems too dry, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
  6. Add Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything together gently until the shrimp are heated through and well incorporated into the pasta.
  7. Serve: Divide the pasta among serving bowls. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately while hot for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes or add fresh chili.
  • Gluten-free pasta can be used to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Vegetarian alternative: omit the shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
  • Use vegetable broth to make the dish pescatarian friendly.
  • Reserve pasta water is essential to adjust sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
  • Parmesan cheese is optional; omit for a dairy-free meal.
  • Fresh basil enhances aroma and color but can be substituted with parsley or omitted if unavailable.

Keywords: Shrimp pasta, spinach pasta, tomato pasta, easy dinner, weeknight meal, garlic shrimp, Italian pasta dish, healthy shrimp recipe