Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the vibrant mixture of plump shrimp and juicy grape tomatoes, a delightful aroma wafted through my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. This 30-Minute Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is not only a breeze to prepare but also a healthy, creamy-free option that captures the essence of summer dining. With fresh spinach and a buttery garlic sauce, this meal transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy experience right at home. The best part? You can savor it all without the stress of lengthy prep time. So, gather your loved ones and let’s dive into this bright, flavorful dish that assures you’ll be reaching for seconds. Are you ready to impress your taste buds? Why is this dish a must-try? Quick Preparation: This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without the hassle. Fresh Ingredients: Featuring vibrant spinach and sweet grape tomatoes, it highlights the flavors of summer, turning simple components into a culinary delight. Healthy Eating: With no cream and wholesome foods, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that nourishes your body while tantalizing your taste buds. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table. Consider pairing it with a side of Chicken Broccoli Pasta for a well-rounded meal! Versatile: Feel free to customize it! Swap shrimp for chicken or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Ingredients For the Pasta • Uncooked Spaghetti – The foundation of the dish; use fettuccine or linguine for a different twist. For the Shrimp • Uncooked Shrimp (31-40 size) – A fantastic protein source; ensure they are thawed and peeled for convenience. For the Sauce • Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing, adding healthy fats; can substitute with avocado oil if desired. • Butter – Creates a rich and creamy flavor without the cream; opt for plant-based butter for a vegan alternative. • Garlic (minced) – The aromatic star of the dish; fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor. For the Veggies • Grape Tomatoes (halved) – Bursting with sweetness; cherry tomatoes make a great substitute as well. • Fresh Baby Spinach – Adds vibrant color and nutrients; arugula is a good alternative if you prefer. For Flavor • Chicken Broth – Enhances the dish’s overall flavor; switch to vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. • Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs for an authentic Italian touch; individual herbs like oregano and basil can be used instead. • Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate taste; adjust them according to your preference. With these simple but delicious ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating the ultimate Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta that will surely impress! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Step 1: Pasta Preparation Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the uncooked spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti, ensuring it stays hot while you prepare the sauce. Step 2: Sauté Aromatics In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and starts to bubble, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant and golden, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This aromatic base sets the stage for the delicious Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta. Step 3: Cook Tomatoes Add the halved grape tomatoes to the skillet, along with ½ cup of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to burst, releasing their juices. The vibrant colors will create a delightful visual and aromatic experience, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish. Step 4: Add Shrimp & Spinach Incorporate 1 pound of uncooked shrimp and 4 cups of fresh baby spinach into the skillet. Lower the heat to medium and cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring gently until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the spinach wilts down. This step infuses the soaking tomato flavors into the shrimp while creating a colorful medley in your Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta. Step 5: Combine with Pasta Season the skillet mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Then, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together gently until well combined. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of the reserved hot pasta water to loosen it up, ensuring the noodles are coated beautifully in the flavorful sauce. Step 6: Serve & Garnish Once everything is well-mixed and heated through, serve the Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta hot. For an appealing finish, garnish each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil. The inviting aroma and vibrant colors will have everyone eager to dig in! Tips for the Best Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque to avoid rubbery texture; approximately 5 minutes is ideal. Flavorful Sauté: Use medium-high heat for sautéing garlic and tomatoes. This retains the vibrant colors in the vegetables and enhances the overall flavor. Pasta Water Magic: Remember to reserve some pasta water! If the sauce gets too thick, adding a splash will bring it back to life, ensuring your Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is perfectly saucy. Herb Flexibility: Adjust the amount of Italian seasoning based on your personal taste. For a fresher flavor, you can add extra fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or scallops, and try incorporating other greens, like kale or arugula, for variety. Make Ahead Options These Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta are perfect for busy weeknights when you want to save time and still enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal! You can prep your ingredients up to 24 hours in advance by chopping the garlic, halving the grape tomatoes, and measuring out your seasonings. Keep the shrimp and spinach refrigerated until you’re ready to cook. On the day you plan to serve, simply sauté the garlic and tomatoes, add the shrimp and spinach, and combine with cooked pasta for a fresh and vibrant dish that tastes just as good as if it had been made from scratch that day. By preparing ahead, you’ll enjoy a delightful meal with less fuss! Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Variations Feel free to add your personal touch to this delightful dish with these fun and easy variations! Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional spaghetti with gluten-free pasta for a healthier option that still delivers flavor. Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter alternative to maintain the richness of the sauce while keeping it plant-based. Veggie Boost: Toss in additional vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus for extra color, crunch, and nutrition. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce, transforming the dish into a fiery sensation. Citrus Twist: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the finished pasta for a zesty brightness that complements the shrimp beautifully. Pasta Alternatives: Try spiralized zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta for a low-carb or whole grain option. Extra Saucy: If you love a saucier pasta, increase the broth to ensure each bite is drenched in flavor, and don’t forget to check out my recipe for Shrimp Roll Summer for more culinary inspiration. Get creative and make this Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta your very own masterpiece! What to Serve with Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Elevate your dining experience by pairing this vibrant pasta dish with delightful accompaniments that enhance its fresh flavors. Garlic Bread: A crunchy, warm complement that adds a satisfying texture, perfect for soaking up any leftover buttery garlic sauce. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing offer a refreshing balance, enhancing the meal’s overall appeal with a classic touch. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred and seasoned, asparagus brings a smoky flavor that perfectly contrasts the sweetness of the tomatoes. Lemon Squash Medley: Sautéed squash ribbons add a pop of color and a distinct summer flavor; it’s simple yet elevates the dish beautifully. Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly, enhancing the shrimp’s flavor while keeping the meal light and refreshing. Peach Tart: For a sweet finish, a slice of peach tart provides a luscious end note, beautifully balancing the lightness of your main course. How to Store and Freeze Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. Make sure the dish has cooled before sealing to avoid condensation. Freezer: This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Place in a freezable container, ensuring there’s no excess air. Reheating: When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth for moisture. Taste Tip: The flavor of the Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta may slightly change after freezing, so aim to enjoy it fresh for the best experience! Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best shrimp for this dish? Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for ones that are firm to the touch with a mild, fresh ocean scent. The shell should be intact and free from dark spots. I recommend opting for uncooked, peeled shrimp of size 31-40 for the best texture. If you’re buying frozen, ensure they have been previously flash-frozen – they’ll taste fresher than ones that have been thawed and refrozen. What’s the best way to store leftovers of Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta? To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Before sealing, let the pasta cool to room temperature; this prevents condensation and maintains its quality. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the sauce. Can I freeze Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta? Yes, you can freeze it! However, keep in mind that while the flavor will be good, the texture may change a bit. To freeze, transfer the cooled pasta into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and store it for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then use a skillet to reheat gently over low heat, adding broth if needed. What should I do if my shrimp is overcooked? If your shrimp becomes rubbery, it can be tough to salvage, but there’s no harm in trying! The key is to ensure you cook shrimp just until they’re pink and opaque, which usually takes about 5 minutes on medium heat. To prevent overcooking in the future, set a timer during cooking and make sure to remove them from heat as soon as they are done. Are there any dietary considerations for this pasta? Certainly! This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta can be adjusted for various dietary needs. For those with seafood allergies, you can substitute shrimp for grilled chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, to make it vegan, swap out butter for plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Always double-check labels on ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary preferences. How can I make this dish spicier? To kick up the heat, consider adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or tossing in some freshly chopped chili peppers. Start with a small amount, about 1/4 teaspoon, and add more to match your heat preference. The more the merrier, as it can elevate the overall flavor of the Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta! Delicious Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Ready in 30 Minutes This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that embodies summer dining. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 ounces uncooked spaghetti can use fettuccine or linguine insteadFor the Shrimp1 pound uncooked shrimp (31-40 size) ensure they are thawed and peeledFor the Sauce2 tablespoons olive oil can substitute with avocado oil1 tablespoon butter opt for plant-based butter for a vegan option3 cloves garlic (minced) fresh garlic recommendedFor the Veggies2 cups grape tomatoes (halved) cherry tomatoes are a good substitute4 cups fresh baby spinach arugula can be used as an alternativeFor Flavor½ cup chicken broth can use vegetable broth for vegetarian option1 tablespoon Italian seasoning substitutes include oregano and basilto taste salt & pepper adjust according to preference Equipment large potskilletmeasuring cupsmeasuring spoonsColander Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the uncooked spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.Add the halved grape tomatoes to the skillet, along with ½ cup of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.Incorporate 1 pound of uncooked shrimp and 4 cups of fresh baby spinach into the skillet. Lower the heat to medium and cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring gently.Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together gently, adding reserved pasta water if necessary.Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg NotesCook shrimp just until pink and opaque, about 5 minutes. Reserve pasta water for sauce consistency. Adjust seasoning to personal taste and feel free to substitute ingredients as desired. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
