There’s something about the combination of shrimp, fresh spinach, and pasta that just feels comforting and light, yet satisfying. This shrimp and spinach pasta recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and it’s one that I often make for family dinners or when I want something quick but flavorful after a busy day. My mom used to make a similar version when I was a kid, and now, I’ve added my personal twist, incorporating more spinach and a hint of garlic. It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for weeknights, but also fancy enough for guests. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting your feet wet in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress.
What is Shrimp and Spinach Pasta?
Shrimp and spinach pasta is a simple, yet delicious dish that combines succulent shrimp, tender spinach, and pasta in a savory sauce. This meal is packed with flavors that blend beautifully—garlic, cream, and a touch of Parmesan bring the elements together. The pasta serves as a perfect base, while the shrimp adds a satisfying protein punch, and the spinach provides a pop of color and nutrients. It’s an ideal recipe for those who are looking for something light but hearty, full of fresh ingredients, and a great way to sneak in some greens for the kids (without them even realizing it!).
Why You’ll Love This
There are countless reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe. First off, it’s ridiculously easy to make. Even if you’re working with limited time after a busy day, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes—making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The recipe is also kid-friendly, thanks to its balanced flavors and comforting appeal. The creamy garlic sauce pairs beautifully with the shrimp and spinach, making even the pickiest eaters ask for seconds.
The best part? It’s incredibly versatile. You can adjust the seasoning, add some red pepper flakes for a kick, or even toss in other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or mushrooms. It’s a great dish to customize based on what you have on hand. Plus, leftovers are just as delicious, making this a fantastic meal for meal prep or enjoying the next day.
How to Make Shrimp and Spinach Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz. pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine works well)
- 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for the sauce.
- Cook the Shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
- Make the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium, and pour in the heavy cream. Stir, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the cream simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, and stir until melted and smooth.
- Add the Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt into the sauce. This should only take a minute or two.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning. Stir in the lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor, if desired.
- Serve: Plate the pasta, and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish. Serve immediately, and enjoy!
What to Serve With
This shrimp and spinach pasta is delightful on its own, but if you’re looking to make it a more substantial meal, here are a few options to pair it with:
- Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy loaf of garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to soak up any remaining sauce.
- Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or even zucchini can add a nice balance of flavors and textures to the meal.
Top Tips
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
- Substitute for Heavy Cream: You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but keep in mind it won’t have quite the same richness.
- Frozen Shrimp: If you don’t have fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp works just as well. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
Storing and Reheating
This shrimp and spinach pasta stores well for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life. It can also be microwaved for a quick meal, though the texture might be slightly different.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes! If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw it and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the sauce.
Can I make this without cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can skip the heavy cream and make a simple garlic butter sauce instead. Just melt butter in the pan, add the garlic, and toss the pasta and shrimp in it. You’ll still get a lovely, rich flavor!
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Definitely! While I love using linguine, you can swap in any pasta shape you prefer. Fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne are all excellent choices.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish makes great leftovers, so feel free to prepare it ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, if you want to skip the shrimp, this recipe can easily be made vegetarian by adding more vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or artichokes.
Conclusion
This shrimp and spinach pasta is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. It’s comforting, flavorful, and a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The combination of shrimp, fresh spinach, and creamy sauce is irresistible, and it’s a dish that will quickly become a regular in your meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to impress! Enjoy the simplicity of homemade goodness that feels indulgent but is easy enough for even the busiest cooks.
Shrimp and Spinach Pasta Recipe – Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner
Kochutensilien
- Large pot (for cooking pasta)
- Large skillet (for making the sauce and cooking shrimp)
- Pasta strainer or colander (for draining the pasta)
Zutaten
- 8 oz. pasta linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine
- 1 lb. large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 3 cups fresh spinach roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Anleitungen
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for a few minutes until it slightly thickens. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Garnish with lemon juice, fresh parsley, and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.