Welcome, pasta lovers! If you’re searching for a light, healthy, and flavorful Mediterranean-style seafood pasta recipe, you’re in the right place. This Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta in Garlic Butter Sauce is a must-try for fans of easy weeknight dinners and Italian-inspired cuisine. Fettuccine pasta, fresh vegetables, and succulent shrimp come together in a rich garlic butter sauce that will have you coming back for seconds!
Introduction
This Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta dish takes inspiration from traditional Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, where fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors are key. Shrimp, tomatoes, and spinach are staples in Mediterranean cooking, and when combined with a smooth garlic butter sauce, they create a meal that’s light yet satisfying. Perfect for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike, this dish is simple to prepare and full of health benefits, thanks to its lean protein and nutrient-rich vegetables.
For more seafood pasta ideas, check out this Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Recipe and Sausage Balls Recipe for complementary flavors.
Ingredients for Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, fresh, uncooked, shelled and deveined.
- 5 tomatoes, medium size, chopped into large cubes.
- 1 cup spinach, cooked.
- 5 garlic cloves, minced.
- 4 tablespoons butter.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- ¼ lemon, juiced.
- ¼ teaspoon salt.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper, or more for additional heat.
- ¼ teaspoon paprika.
- 10 oz fettuccine pasta.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated, for serving.
Optional Substitutions
- Shrimp: Swap for chicken or tofu if seafood isn’t preferred.
- Butter: Use ghee or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
- Pasta: Try gluten-free pasta or whole-wheat alternatives.
How to Make Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta – Step by Step
Step1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the tomatoes into large cubes.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Defrost, peel, and devein the shrimp if not already prepared.
Step2: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil, until melted.
- Add the fresh shrimp and half of the minced garlic to the skillet. Make sure the shrimp is spread out evenly.
- Cook for 1 minute on one side until it turns pink, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until pink on both sides.
- Sprinkle paprika and salt over the shrimp while cooking.
Step3: Add Vegetables
- Add the chopped tomatoes, cooked spinach, and the remaining garlic to the skillet.
- Sprinkle ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper for heat.
- Sauté gently for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step4: Cook the Pasta
- In a separate pot, cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions.
- Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent overcooking.
Step5: Combine and Finish
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with shrimp and vegetables.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons butter and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Toss gently until well mixed, then season with more salt and crushed red pepper as needed.
Pro Tip: Always add lemon juice last to maintain its fresh, citrusy flavor.
Helpful Tips for Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta
- Use fresh shrimp whenever possible, as it has a firmer texture and sweeter flavor.
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely before cooking.
- For a thicker sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the final toss.
Cooking Tips for the Best Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta
- Garlic Cooking Technique: Add garlic in two stages to build deeper flavor without burning.
- Lemon Control: Start with a small amount of lemon juice, and adjust to taste. Too much lemon can overpower the dish.
- Pasta Texture: Always cook pasta al dente to ensure it retains its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce.
Serving Suggestions for Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta
This shrimp pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad and a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. For a more indulgent experience, serve with a slice of garlic bread or a light Caesar salad. Want more Mediterranean dishes? Explore this Grilled Chicken Salad for a perfect accompaniment.
Nutritional Information
Calories per serving: 594 kcal
Fat: 24g
Carbs: 62g
Protein: 34g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 980mg
Cholesterol: 225mg
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is high in lean protein from shrimp, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and essential vitamins like B12. Spinach and tomatoes provide antioxidants and vitamins A and C, making this meal both nutritious and delicious.
Storage and Leftovers for Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended due to the texture changes in shrimp and tomatoes.
- Reheating: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent drying out.
Pro Tip: Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta
1. Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the shrimp and vegetables up to 1 day in advance and store them separately.
2. What other vegetables can I add?
Try adding asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini for additional color and nutrients.
3. Is there a dairy-free option?
Substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
4. How can I make the sauce creamier?
Add ½ cup of heavy cream or a splash of white wine for a richer sauce.
Related Recipes for Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta Lovers
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole
: A hearty meal that complements this shrimp pasta with its rich flavors.
- Sausage Balls Recipe
: A tasty appetizer that pairs perfectly with Mediterranean pasta dishes.
Conclusion
Thank you for joining us on this culinary journey! This Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta in Garlic Butter Sauce is a dish that brings vibrant, fresh flavors to your table. Give it a try, and let us know your personal twist on the recipe in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta – Easy Garlic Butter Recipe
Description
Welcome, pasta lovers! If you’re searching for a light, healthy, and flavorful Mediterranean-style seafood pasta recipe, you’re in the right place. This Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta in Garlic Butter Sauce is a must-try for fans of easy weeknight dinners and Italian-inspired cuisine. Fettuccine pasta, fresh vegetables, and succulent shrimp come together in a rich garlic butter sauce that will have you coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, fresh, uncooked, shelled and deveined.
- 5 tomatoes, medium size, chopped into large cubes.
- 1 cup spinach, cooked.
- 5 garlic cloves, minced.
- 4 tablespoons butter.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- ¼ lemon, juiced.
- ¼ teaspoon salt.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper, or more for additional heat.
- ¼ teaspoon paprika.
- 10 oz fettuccine pasta.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated, for serving.
Optional Substitutions
- Shrimp: Swap for chicken or tofu if seafood isn’t preferred.
- Butter: Use ghee or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
- Pasta: Try gluten-free pasta or whole-wheat alternatives.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the tomatoes into large cubes.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Defrost, peel, and devein the shrimp if not already prepared.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil, until melted.
- Add the fresh shrimp and half of the minced garlic to the skillet. Make sure the shrimp is spread out evenly.
- Cook for 1 minute on one side until it turns pink, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until pink on both sides.
- Sprinkle paprika and salt over the shrimp while cooking.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
- Add the chopped tomatoes, cooked spinach, and the remaining garlic to the skillet.
- Sprinkle ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper for heat.
- Sauté gently for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
- In a separate pot, cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions.
- Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent overcooking.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with shrimp and vegetables.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons butter and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Toss gently until well mixed, then season with more salt and crushed red pepper as needed.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use fresh shrimp whenever possible, as it has a firmer texture and sweeter flavor.
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely before cooking.
- For a thicker sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the final toss.
