Description
Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating a flavorful and easy-to-make Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta! This recipe combines succulent shrimp with fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes, delivering a healthy, satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or a romantic date night. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this simple recipe will become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 oz (220g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – for a touch of heat.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or more, to taste.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – adds a blend of herbs.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.
- 4 Roma tomatoes, chopped.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped.
- 6 oz fresh spinach – use baby spinach for milder flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced.
- 8 oz (220g) pasta (penne or spaghetti).
- 2 tablespoons high-quality olive oil, optional for finishing.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
- Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once hot, add shrimp, red pepper flakes, paprika, Italian seasoning, and salt. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Spinach Sauce
- In the same skillet, add chopped tomatoes, basil, spinach, and garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the spinach wilts and tomatoes release some of their juice. Season with salt and pepper as needed. Cover and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook 8 oz of pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and add pasta to the skillet with the tomato-spinach mixture. Toss everything together over low heat until combined.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently toss to coat everything in the sauce. Drizzle with high-quality olive oil just before serving for an extra flavor boost. Serve immediately and enjoy your Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta!
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients: The freshness of tomatoes, spinach, and shrimp makes a significant difference in flavor.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Add extra herbs: Boost the flavor by adding fresh parsley or oregano at the end.