Name: Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American

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If you need a dinner that’s vibrant, loaded with flavor, and practically guaranteed to impress, let me introduce you to Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta. This Italian-American classic brings together juicy shrimp, burst cherry tomatoes, and handfuls of fresh spinach, all tossed with pasta in a garlicky, cheesy sauce. Ready in just about half an hour, it tastes as if it came out of your favorite trattoria—yet the ingredients are so simple, you’ll want to add it into your weekly rotation.

Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a closer look at what makes each component of this Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta special. There’s nothing fancy—just everyday ingredients that truly shine when combined. Every element brings its own character, whether it’s color, texture, or a pop of flavor.

Pasta: Choose 8 oz of linguine or spaghetti. Both soak up the light sauce and pair beautifully with shrimp.
Olive oil: Just 1 tablespoon creates the base for sautéing everything and adds a subtle richness.
Shrimp: 1 lb of large, peeled and deveined shrimp cook fast and provide that wonderful seafood sweetness.
Garlic: Use 3 minced cloves for an unmistakable aroma that brings the whole dish together.
Red pepper flakes (optional): 1/2 tsp for a gentle heat; totally adjustable to your preference!
Cherry tomatoes: 2 cups, halved—these little gems add juicy bursts of sweetness and color.
Fresh spinach: 3 cups wilt down into a silky, green layer that’s as nutritious as it is striking.
Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup melted straight into the pasta, giving every bite a savory finish.
Pasta water: Reserve 1/4 cup to help the sauce cling to every strand of pasta.
Salt and pepper: As needed, for seasoning and bringing all the flavors to life.
Fresh basil or parsley (optional): These herbs brighten everything up if you want a final flourish.

How to Make Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Get things started by cooking the pasta in heavily salted water according to the package directions until perfectly al dente. Make sure to reserve about 1/4 cup of that starchy pasta water before you drain—this will help bring the whole sauce together later.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta’s cooking, heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lay the shrimp in a single layer, sprinkle over some salt and pepper, and let them cook for just 1 to 2 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque—be careful not to overcook! Scoop them out and set aside for now.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet (no need to wash, those shrimp bits are pure gold), toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you’re craving a bit of heat. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until you catch a whiff of that garlicky goodness.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Wilt Spinach

Add your halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes. They should soften, release some juices, and start to form a fresh, chunky sauce. Once they’re melting into the pan, stir in the spinach and continue cooking until it’s all wilted and silky, about 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 5: Bring Everything Together

Toss those cooked shrimp back in, then add your drained pasta, Parmesan cheese, and the reserved pasta water. Use tongs to give everything a big, happy toss so the sauce coats each noodle and the shrimp are evenly distributed. Give it a taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. If you love a herby flourish, sprinkle over some chopped basil or parsley.

How to Serve Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta

Garnishes

A final sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a shower of chopped parsley or basil takes your Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta from everyday to extra special. Add a crack of black pepper or even a few chili flakes for some zing right before serving.

Side Dishes

This pasta is a showstopper on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, serve it with warm crusty bread to soak up every bit of sauce. A simple green salad with a lemony vinaigrette is also perfect to balance the richness and bring some crunch to the table.

Creative Ways to Present

To turn your Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta into a dinner party centerpiece, twirl it into generous nests on each plate and top each with a whole shrimp and fresh basil leaves. Serving in a big family-style platter makes for a dramatic, inviting presentation, and you can even finish with a drizzle of quality olive oil just before bringing it to the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Store your Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld and deepen, making tomorrow’s lunch just as delightful.

Freezing

It’s best to enjoy this pasta fresh, but if you must freeze it, portion your cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers. Keep in mind the texture of the shrimp and spinach may soften after thawing; freeze for up to 1 month for best quality.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce. If you prefer the microwave, cover loosely and reheat in short bursts, stirring in between, until just warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While linguine and spaghetti work beautifully, feel free to use penne, fettuccine, or even whole wheat varieties in your Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time.

What if I don’t have fresh spinach?

Frozen spinach will work in a pinch—simply thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to your skillet. The taste remains delicious, and you’ll still get those lovely greens.

How can I make this dish creamier?

For a richer version of Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta, stir in about 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese just before tossing everything together. It creates a luscious, velvety finish.

Can I make Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta dairy-free?

Yes! Just leave out the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. You can also finish with a drizzle of good olive oil and extra herbs for flavor.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta moist and the shrimp tender. The microwave works, too—just use short intervals and stir frequently.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dinner that’s as easy to whip up as it is elegant, treat yourself to Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta. It’s bursting with color, brimming with flavor, and sure to become a regular star at your table—give it a try and let it be your new go-to for quick, delicious meals!

Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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4.6 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful and flavorful dish combining the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the earthiness of spinach, and the succulence of shrimp in a Parmesan-infused pasta sauce.

Ingredients

Linguine or Spaghetti:

8 oz

Olive Oil:

1 tbsp

Large Shrimp (peeled and deveined):

1 lb

Garlic Cloves (minced):

Red Pepper Flakes (optional):

1/2 tsp

Cherry Tomatoes (halved):

2 cups

Fresh Spinach:

3 cups

Grated Parmesan Cheese:

1/2 cup

Pasta Water (reserved):

1/4 cup

Salt and Pepper:

to taste

Fresh Basil or Parsley for garnish (optional):

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Cook pasta until al dente, reserve pasta water, drain, and set aside.
Sear Shrimp: Sear seasoned shrimp until pink and opaque, then set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes, then add cherry tomatoes and cook until soft.
Add Spinach and Shrimp: Wilt spinach, return shrimp to skillet, then add pasta, Parmesan, and reserved water.
Combine: Toss all ingredients together until heated through.
Adjust Seasoning: Season to taste and garnish with herbs.