If you’re craving a light yet satisfying dinner, this Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is the perfect choice. Juicy shrimp, vibrant grape tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a delicate garlic butter sauce come together in just 30 minutes for a Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s elegant enough for guests and easy enough for a weeknight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- One-Skillet Prep: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pan.
- Light & Flavorful: Fresh vegetables and tender shrimp in a delicate garlic butter sauce.
- Family-Friendly: Elegant enough for entertaining yet loved by the whole family.
- Versatile: Pair with spaghetti, penne, or your favorite pasta.
Ingredients
- 8 oz uncooked spaghetti
- 1 lb shrimp (31–40 count), thawed, peeled, and tails removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 oz grape tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- ¼ tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, packed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water and cook spaghetti al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic & Veggies: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in grape tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Cook 5 minutes until tomatoes soften.
- Cook Shrimp & Spinach: Add shrimp and spinach to the skillet. Cook 5 minutes until shrimp is pink and fully cooked and spinach is wilted.
- Combine & Serve: Toss the shrimp mixture with cooked spaghetti. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for extra sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with Parmesan or fresh herbs, if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms boost flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes while cooking.
- Different Proteins: Swap shrimp for chicken or scallops for variety.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with olive oil for a lighter twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or olive oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between.
Why This Recipe Works
This dish balances light, fresh ingredients with a rich, buttery sauce. Shrimp cooks quickly while tomatoes release natural sweetness and spinach adds a nutritious green touch. It’s a one-skillet, Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s flavorful, easy, and elegant.
Serve With:
- A crisp green salad
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette
- Lemon wedges for extra brightness
Ready in 30 minutes, packed with flavor, and perfect for weeknight dinners or small gatherings, this Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta will quickly become a family favorite.