If you are searching for a quick yet impressive dinner that bursts with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, this Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It perfectly balances juicy shrimp, sweet grape tomatoes, and fresh spinach, all tossed together with al dente spaghetti in a luscious garlicky sauce. Whether you are cooking for family or friends, this dish brings a delightful combination of color, texture, and taste to your table without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe, it will become one of your go-to weeknight favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the freshness of each component. Every ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor while keeping the dish light, colorful, and satisfying. From the succulent shrimp to the brightness of fresh spinach and tomatoes, these ingredients come together effortlessly.
- 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti: The perfect canvas to soak up all the delicious sauce and carry all the other flavors.
- 1 pound uncooked shrimp (31-40/pound size), thawed, peeled, and tails removed: Offers a tender, juicy protein that cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with the veggies.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps sear the shrimp perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Gives a silky texture and a hint of indulgence to the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth without overpowering it.
- 10 ounces grape tomatoes, halved: Burst with natural sweetness and contribute a fresh, tangy pop.
- ¼ cup chicken broth: Lightens the sauce and helps meld the ingredients into a cohesive, flavorful coating.
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings an herbal note that complements the shrimp and vegetables effortlessly.
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach: Adds color, nutrition, and a tender leafy texture that softens perfectly.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate all the other flavors harmoniously.
How to Make Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti Al Dente
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water, then cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture — tender but with a slight bite. This step is crucial because the pasta needs to hold up well once you toss it with the juicy tomato and shrimp mixture. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil and Butter
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, combine the olive oil and butter. Once the butter melts and starts to shimmer, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant and golden but not burnt. The garlic will form the flavorful base of your sauce, so take your time to bring out its aroma.
Step 3: Cook Tomatoes with Broth and Italian Seasoning
Next, add the halved grape tomatoes to the skillet along with the chicken broth and Italian seasoning. Let the tomatoes cook for around 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. As they soften, they’ll release their natural juices, creating a light and tasty sauce that is both tangy and savory. The broth adds extra moisture and depth to the flavor, while the Italian seasoning ties all the elements together beautifully.
Step 4: Add Shrimp and Spinach
Then stir in the shrimp and fresh baby spinach. Reduce the heat to medium to gently cook everything together. In about 5 minutes, the shrimp will turn an inviting pink and become tender, while the spinach will wilt down, adding a lovely burst of green and subtle earthiness. Keep stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and that the shrimp absorb the flavorful sauce.
Step 5: Season and Toss with Pasta
Season your shrimp and vegetable mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste. Now it’s time to marry the sauce with your perfectly cooked spaghetti. Toss everything together in the skillet, making sure the pasta is evenly coated by the juicy tomato and spinach sauce. If the sauce seems a bit thick, add in a splash of the reserved hot pasta water to loosen it up and give it a glossy finish.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Once everything is combined and piping hot, your Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe is ready to be served. This dish tastes best fresh off the stove while the flavors are vibrant and the textures are just right. Garnish as you like and dig in!
How to Serve Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your plate by topping the pasta with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil. These garnishes add a finishing touch of flavor and make the dish look inviting and restaurant-worthy. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also add a luxurious sheen and richness.
Side Dishes
This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement its vibrant flavors. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread to soak up every last drop of sauce. Roasted vegetables or a lemony asparagus salad also make excellent accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling a little fancy, transfer the pasta to a shallow serving dish and garnish with colorful cherry tomatoes, a few spinach leaves, and extra shrimp on top. You can also plate individual servings into elegant bowls and add a lemon wedge on the side for a fresh citrus zing. These small presentation touches make the meal feel special and thoughtful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will keep well for up to 2 days. Since the sauce is light and fresh, the shrimp maintain good texture but tend to become firmer with time, so aim to enjoy leftovers soon.
Freezing
Freezing shrimp pasta dishes can be tricky because shrimp’s texture changes after freezing. If you do want to freeze, store the pasta and sauce separately from the spinach and shrimp to preserve freshness. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, adding fresh spinach at that time for better texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently to warm everything through evenly. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened or dried out. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. Fresh spinach can be stirred in at the end to revive its vibrancy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully in this dish, you can experiment with linguine, fettuccine, or even penne for a different texture and bite. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I substitute for chicken broth to make it vegetarian?
If you want to keep this recipe vegetarian or simply don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth is a perfect alternative that keeps the sauce flavorful and light.
Can I use frozen shrimp straight from the freezer?
It’s best to thaw frozen shrimp before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture. Quick thaw by placing the shrimp in a colander and running cold water over them for a few minutes.
How spicy is this Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
This recipe is mild and focuses on fresh, savory flavors. If you like a kick, you can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce while cooking.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Most of the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy trail to follow.
Final Thoughts
This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe is a beautiful, approachable dish that delivers freshness, flavor, and a touch of elegance all in one pan. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests without fuss. I promise, once you make it, you’ll cherish this recipe for its simplicity and vibrant taste—it’s one that you’ll want to return to again and again. Give it a try and bring a little joyous comfort to your dinner table!
Print
Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a quick and flavorful dinner option, combining succulent shrimp, fresh spinach, and juicy grape tomatoes in a savory garlic butter sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish pairs perfectly with al dente spaghetti for a balanced, nutritious meal that satisfies seafood and pasta lovers alike.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti
Shrimp and Vegetables
- 1 pound uncooked shrimp (31-40/pound size), thawed, peeled, and tails removed if desired
- 10 ounces grape tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
Sauce and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
- Sauté garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the halved grape tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Continue cooking for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to release their juices, creating a flavorful sauce.
- Add shrimp and spinach: Add the shrimp to the skillet followed by the fresh spinach. Reduce heat to medium and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, and the spinach is wilted.
- Season and combine: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the shrimp and vegetable mixture with the cooked spaghetti until well combined. If needed, add some reserved hot pasta water to loosen the sauce and achieve desired consistency.
- Serve: Serve the pasta immediately, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic for a mild kick.
- Use fresh shrimp for best taste, or fully thaw frozen shrimp before cooking.
- Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make the recipe pescatarian-friendly.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining to help adjust sauce consistency as needed.
