Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a light yet flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with tender pasta, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes, all tossed in a savory garlic-infused sauce. The shrimp adds a delicate seafood flavor, while the spinach brings freshness, and the tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and acidity. It’s a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
I first made this pasta when I was craving something light but filling, and the combination of shrimp with fresh vegetables and pasta was just what I needed. The garlic and olive oil base of the sauce complemented the natural flavors of the shrimp and vegetables beautifully. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to customize—you can use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option, add red pepper flakes for some heat, or top it with Parmesan cheese for extra richness. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a dish that’s sure to impress!
Perfect for:
- Quick weeknight meals
- Family dinners
- Seafood lovers
- Light yet satisfying meals
- Fresh, flavorful dishes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta will become your go-to dish:
- Fresh and Light: The combination of fresh tomatoes and spinach makes for a light yet fulfilling meal.
- Flavor-Packed Sauce: A rich, garlic-infused olive oil sauce brings out the best in the shrimp and vegetables.
- Quick and Easy: It’s a one-pan dish that comes together in just 30 minutes.
- Creamy but Light: A small amount of cream adds just the right richness without weighing down the dish.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Loaded with protein, vitamins, and healthy fats, this dish is both nutritious and delicious.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual weeknights to more formal gatherings, this pasta works for all occasions.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the amount of spinach, shrimp, or seasonings to suit your taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its vibrant colors and delightful flavors make it a dish that’s sure to please everyone.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra portions for an easy lunch or dinner the next day.
- Light but Satisfying: This dish is filling but won’t leave you feeling overly full—perfect for a balanced meal.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 15g
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or your choice of pasta
- Salt for boiling
The Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Ingredient Highlights
- Shrimp: A lean protein that adds a touch of sweetness and a delicate texture to the dish.
- Fresh Spinach: Adds vibrant color and an earthy flavor that balances the sweetness of the shrimp.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Provide a burst of freshness and acidity to complement the rich shrimp and creamy sauce.
- Olive Oil and Garlic: Form the base for a flavorful, aromatic sauce that brings everything together.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Prepare the Shrimp:
- Cook Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp is pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- Cook Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add olive oil and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
- Add Spinach: Add spinach and cook for 2 minutes, until wilted.
- Add Cream and Seasoning: Stir in the heavy cream, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and reserved pasta water. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is coated in the sauce.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.
How to Serve
Here are 9 serving suggestions for Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta:
- As a Quick Dinner: Perfect for a weeknight meal with minimal prep time.
- With Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.
- As a Light Lunch: Enjoy this dish as a fresh and light lunch option.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a simple side salad of mixed greens for a balanced meal.
- For Family Dinners: A great option for a quick, satisfying family meal.
- With Extra Veggies: Add in more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for a more hearty dish.
- As a Make-Ahead Meal: Prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time for an easy meal later.
- For Special Occasions: A delicious and easy dish for a dinner party or celebration.
- With Lemon Wedges: Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon for added brightness.
Additional Tips
- Pasta Cooking Tip: Be sure to reserve pasta water before draining, as it helps thicken the sauce and make it creamy.
- Shrimp Tip: Don’t overcook the shrimp—cook just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Cream Substitution: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
- Pasta Choice: While spaghetti is classic, feel free to use other types of pasta such as penne or fettuccine.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: Use butter instead of olive oil for a rich, buttery flavor.
- Spicy Shrimp Pasta: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Zucchini Noodles: Swap out regular pasta for zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.
- Vegan Version: Use vegan shrimp and coconut cream to make this dish plant-based.
- Lemon Shrimp Pasta: Add lemon zest and juice to the sauce for a citrusy twist.
- Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta: Add extra fresh basil for an even more vibrant flavor.
- Pesto Shrimp Pasta: Stir in some pesto for a fragrant, herby variation.
Special Equipment
- Large Skillet: For cooking the shrimp and making the sauce.
- Pot for Pasta: A large pot to cook the pasta.
- Tongs: To toss the pasta and shrimp together.
- Grater: For freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serving Bowls: For serving the pasta.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the shrimp and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh for optimal texture. - What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free option like coconut cream for a lighter version. - Can I use spinach in a jar instead of fresh?
Fresh spinach gives the best flavor and texture, but you can use jarred spinach if needed. - How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger skillet to accommodate the extra servings. - Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli for a more robust dish. - Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use any pasta you prefer—penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine all work well. - How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for extra heat. - Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
Conclusion
Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a light yet flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes, all tossed in a rich, garlicky pasta sauce. The sweetness of the tomatoes complements the earthy spinach and the savory shrimp, while the pasta provides the perfect base to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal that feels elegant yet simple.
This recipe is easy to make and highly customizable. You can use any pasta you like, from spaghetti to penne, and add extra ingredients such as red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or Parmesan cheese for added richness. Whether served on its own or paired with a side of crusty bread, Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a delicious and satisfying meal.
I can’t wait to see how your Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!