Welcome, food enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into a delicious and healthy Mediterranean pasta dish — Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta in Garlic Butter Sauce. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers looking for a balanced, flavorful meal. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or just a delightful weeknight meal, this shrimp pasta recipe is sure to impress. Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive in!
Introduction
Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta is inspired by the fresh and vibrant flavors of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. This dish combines succulent shrimp, juicy tomatoes, and fresh spinach, all tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce. The buttery, garlicky goodness not only enhances the shrimp but also elevates the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and the earthy notes of spinach. It’s a versatile meal that’s easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just starting to explore Mediterranean dishes, this pasta will become a household favorite.
- Learn about more shrimp pasta variations here.
Ingredients for Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta
- 1 lb shrimp – fresh, uncooked, shelled, and deveined.
- 5 medium tomatoes – chopped into large cubes.
- 1 cup cooked spinach – use fresh or frozen spinach, well-drained.
- 5 garlic cloves – minced finely.
- 4 tablespoons butter – divided.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- ¼ lemon – juiced.
- ¼ teaspoon salt.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper – adjust to taste.
- ¼ teaspoon paprika.
- 10 oz fettuccine pasta – or any pasta of your choice.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – for serving.
Optional Substitutions:
- Swap out shrimp for chicken or tofu for a non-seafood option.
- Replace butter with ghee for a nutty flavor or plant-based butter for a vegan version.
- Use zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta for a low-carb or gluten-free option.
For a heartier variation, check out our Sausage Balls Recipe.
How to Make Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta – Step by Step
Step1: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add fresh shrimp and half of the minced garlic. Make sure the shrimp is not crowded in the pan.
- Cook for 1 minute on one side until it turns pink.
- Season with paprika and salt on the uncooked side before flipping.
- Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fully pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step2: Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and garlic.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cooked spinach, stirring until they soften and release their juices.
- Add crushed red pepper and mix well. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes.
Step3: Cook the Pasta
- Cook fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy.
Step4: Combine Ingredients
- Add the pasta to the skillet with the sauce and vegetables. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and season with additional salt and crushed red pepper if needed.
Step5: Serve with Parmesan
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. Enjoy!
For another delicious Italian-inspired dish, explore our Grilled Chicken Alfredo Recipe.
Helpful Tips for Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta
- Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp offers the best flavor, but frozen shrimp can also be used. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Aim for a pink and opaque appearance.
- Choose high-quality Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty, umami taste that pre-grated versions can’t match.
Cooking Tips for the Best Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta
- Tip 1: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet – This ensures even heat distribution, preventing the garlic from burning.
- Tip 2: Add a splash of white wine – If you enjoy the taste of wine, add a splash to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Tip 3: Make it spicy – Increase the crushed red pepper for a spicier kick.
Serving Suggestions for Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta
Pair this dish with:
- Garlic Bread – For a crunchy, buttery side.
- Caesar Salad – A light salad with a creamy dressing complements the richness of the pasta.
- White Wine – A glass of crisp Chardonnay enhances the seafood flavors.
If you’re looking for more side dish ideas, check out our guide on Louisiana Voodoo Fries.
Nutritional Information for Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta (per serving)
- Calories: 594 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbs: 55 g
- Fat: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Vitamin A: 1200 IU
- Calcium: 150 mg
- Iron: 2.8 mg
Storage and Leftovers for Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: This pasta freezes well for up to 2 months. Allow to cool completely before freezing.
- Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent the pasta from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta
- Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain it completely to avoid a watery sauce. - Can I substitute the shrimp?
Absolutely! Try chicken breast or scallops for different flavor profiles. - What pasta shapes work best?
Fettuccine, linguine, or penne are excellent options that hold the sauce well. - Is this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to make this a gluten-free recipe.
Related Recipes for Shrimp Lovers
- Spicy Garlic Shrimp Linguine
– A bold and spicy take on shrimp pasta.
- Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp
– A tropical twist with rich coconut milk and lemongrass.
Conclusion
This Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta in Garlic Butter Sauce is a must-try for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s a recipe that fits perfectly into any meal plan. Try it out, share your results, and let us know your favorite variations in the comments below! Happy cooking!
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Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Description
Welcome, food enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into a delicious and healthy Mediterranean pasta dish — Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta in Garlic Butter Sauce. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers looking for a balanced, flavorful meal. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or just a delightful weeknight meal, this shrimp pasta recipe is sure to impress. Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp – fresh, uncooked, shelled, and deveined.
- 5 medium tomatoes – chopped into large cubes.
- 1 cup cooked spinach – use fresh or frozen spinach, well-drained.
- 5 garlic cloves – minced finely.
- 4 tablespoons butter – divided.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- ¼ lemon – juiced.
- ¼ teaspoon salt.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper – adjust to taste.
- ¼ teaspoon paprika.
- 10 oz fettuccine pasta – or any pasta of your choice.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – for serving.
Optional Substitutions:
- Swap out shrimp for chicken or tofu for a non-seafood option.
- Replace butter with ghee for a nutty flavor or plant-based butter for a vegan version.
- Use zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta for a low-carb or gluten-free option.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add fresh shrimp and half of the minced garlic. Make sure the shrimp is not crowded in the pan.
- Cook for 1 minute on one side until it turns pink.
- Season with paprika and salt on the uncooked side before flipping.
- Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fully pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and garlic.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cooked spinach, stirring until they soften and release their juices.
- Add crushed red pepper and mix well. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Cook fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Add the pasta to the skillet with the sauce and vegetables. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and season with additional salt and crushed red pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve with Parmesan
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. Enjoy!
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: Fresh shrimp offers the best flavor, but frozen shrimp can also be used. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Aim for a pink and opaque appearance.
- Choose high-quality Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty, umami taste that pre-grated versions can’t match.
