If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful dish that comes together in just about 25 minutes, this Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s bursting with juicy cherry tomatoes, tender spinach, and perfectly cooked shrimp, all tossed with pasta for a meal that feels both fresh and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is a surefire way to bring warmth and color to the table without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to this dish’s delicious balance of flavors and textures. Each component plays its part in creating a colorful, satisfying meal that’s as nutritious as it is tasty.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and a sweet, delicate seafood flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This helps to cook the shrimp perfectly and adds a subtle richness to the sauce.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved: These add pops of sweetness and bright color to the pasta.
- 2 cups spinach, chopped: Fresh spinach wilts down beautifully, adding earthy flavor and a lovely green contrast.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings aromatic warmth that ties the whole dish together.
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne): Use your favorite shape; the pasta is the perfect vehicle for all the savory ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A pinch gives a gentle kick, boosting flavor without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning enhances all the fresh ingredients’ natural flavors.
How to Make Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. This ensures a perfect bite that won’t get mushy once mixed with the sauce later. Drain well and set aside to keep the kitchen moving smoothly.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and curl lightly. Don’t overcook here, as shrimp will continue to cook a bit later. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Cook just about a minute until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. This step is key to building the aromatic base that makes the Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe so inviting.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach. Stir them together and cook for 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften, releasing their juicy sweetness. This creates a wonderful sauce-like quality without needing extra liquids.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta
Add your cooked pasta back into the skillet and toss everything thoroughly so that the noodles get coated with the garlicky tomato and spinach mix.
Step 6: Season and Finish
Sprinkle salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, stirring to combine all the flavors evenly. Finally, return the shrimp to the skillet, mixing gently to warm them through and unify all components into a harmonious dish.
How to Serve Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
For a simple yet elegant finish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top. A generous grating of Parmesan cheese can also add a lovely savory note. These garnishes elevate the presentation and add layers of flavor.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any extra juices left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve this Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe in warm individual bowls lined with a bed of extra fresh spinach or even arugula. Drizzle a little high-quality olive oil on top and add a lemon wedge on the side for guests to squeeze if they like. It’s both visually stunning and palate-pleasing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors may deepen overnight, making for a delicious second meal.
Freezing
While fresh pasta dishes tend to be best enjoyed immediately, you can freeze this pasta without shrimp—add the shrimp fresh when reheating. Freeze the pasta mixture in a sealed container for up to 1 month.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil over medium-low heat to keep the shrimp tender and the pasta from drying out. Avoid the microwave to preserve texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
What type of pasta works best?
Spaghetti and penne both hold up well, but feel free to use your favorite noodle shape. Short pasta like penne or rigatoni tends to trap the tomatoes and spinach nicely.
Is the red pepper flakes optional?
Yes, the red pepper flakes add a gentle heat, but if you prefer a milder flavor, simply leave them out without any substitution.
Can I substitute spinach with another green?
Definitely. Kale, arugula, or even Swiss chard can be fantastic alternatives that add their own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe is naturally dairy-free; just skip any cheese garnishes or use a non-dairy alternative for topping.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe enough for those busy nights when you want something quick, healthy, and utterly delicious. It’s simple to prepare, bursting with bright, fresh flavors, and versatile enough to adapt to what you have on hand. Give it a try—I promise it will become one of your go-to favorites!
Print
Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick and flavorful Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta recipe that combines succulent shrimp with fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes in a garlic olive oil sauce, tossed with your choice of spaghetti or penne pasta. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for a weeknight meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
- Cook shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: Using the same skillet with the residual oil, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Add veggies: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften, releasing their juices.
- Combine pasta: Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet and toss everything together to evenly combine all ingredients.
- Season: Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, stirring well to incorporate the flavors.
- Serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet or plate alongside the pasta. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful meal!
Notes
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of pasta water or a dash of cream when combining the pasta and vegetables.
- Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit entirely for a milder flavor.
- Fresh garlic is key to the flavor; avoid pre-minced garlic for best taste.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free if needed.
