Description

This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish combining al dente spaghetti with succulent shrimp, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Enhanced with garlic, olive oil, and a hint of red pepper flakes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Finished with a splash of broth and optional Parmesan and basil garnish, this pasta offers a delightful balance of textures and vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

8 oz spaghetti (or preferred pasta)

Shrimp and Vegetables

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
4 cups fresh spinach
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Liquids and Garnish

1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of the pasta water for later use.
Sauté shrimp: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking for 3-5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
Add vegetables: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 3 minutes until the tomatoes soften. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally.
Combine everything: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss all the ingredients together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the mixture is too dry. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve: Plate the pasta while hot. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired, and enjoy!

Notes

You can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for variation.
If you prefer a creamier sauce, add a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese when combining ingredients.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference.
Reserve pasta water is important to adjust the sauce consistency without thinning it down too much.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free if needed.