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Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe – Quick and Delicious Dinner

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Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is the epitome of comfort and elegance packed into one vibrant dish. This recipe strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication, making it an excellent choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions. The combination of tender shrimp, fresh spinach, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce ensures every bite is loaded with satisfying flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for your family, a romantic dinner, or just treating yourself to a hearty meal, this dish comes together effortlessly in under 30 minutes.

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Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe – Quick and Delicious Dinner

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Whip up a restaurant-quality meal in no time with Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta! 🦐🍝 Juicy shrimp, tender pasta, and a savory tomato-spinach sauce come together for a dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. 🌿✨ Perfect for busy nights or when you want something quick and fancy. Your dinner just got an upgrade! 🍽️

#TomatoSpinachPasta 🍅 #ShrimpDelight 🦐 #QuickAndTasty ⏱️ #EasyDinnerIdea 🌟 #HealthyAndHearty 🌿 #PastaPerfection 🍝 #SeafoodLovers 🐟 #ComfortFoodGoals ❤️ #DeliciouslySimple 😋 #WeeknightDinners 🍽️

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 2-3 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz pasta (penne or spaghetti): The foundation of the dish, providing the perfect base to soak up the sauce. Penne adds a chewy texture, while spaghetti offers a classic twirlable option.
  • Salt for pasta water: Enhances the pasta’s flavor as it cooks.
  • 8 oz medium shrimp, peeled and deveined: Tender and juicy, shrimp adds a protein-packed highlight to the dish.
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Provides a subtle heat, complementing the sweetness of the tomatoes.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth that enriches the shrimp and overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that ties all the components together.
  • Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic base.
  • 4 Roma tomatoes, chopped: Fresh and juicy, they form the heart of the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Lends a bright, herbaceous note.
  • 6 oz fresh spinach: Adds color, texture, and a nutritional boost.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing, enhancing the richness of the dish.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional): Provides a creamy, salty finish when sprinkled on top.

Instructions

  • Prepare the pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid will be essential later for adjusting the sauce’s consistency.
  • Season and cook the shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel and season them with smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
  • Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, add a touch more olive oil if needed, and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it, as it can become bitter.
  • Create the tomato base: Add the chopped Roma tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to break down into a sauce-like consistency.
  • Incorporate the spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until wilted. This step adds vibrant color and a dose of greens to the dish.
  • Combine the elements: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, mixing them with the tomato-spinach base. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well combined. Use the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency as needed.
  • Garnish and serve: Finish the dish by stirring in freshly chopped basil and topping it with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and savor the flavors.

Notes

  • Pasta: While penne and spaghetti are classic choices, you can experiment with other pasta shapes like fettuccine, rigatoni, or even gluten-free options.
  • Protein: Swap shrimp for chicken, tofu, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Cook chicken until fully done, or sauté mushrooms until golden brown to bring out their umami flavor.
  • Greens: Substitute spinach with kale, arugula, or Swiss chard for a slightly different texture and taste.
  • Tomatoes: If fresh Roma tomatoes are unavailable, canned diced tomatoes or cherry tomatoes can be used. They’ll provide a slightly different but equally delicious base.
  • Spices: Adjust the heat level by increasing or reducing the red pepper flakes. Add a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick.
  • Creaminess: For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream, cream cheese, or even coconut milk when adding the spinach. This variation works well for those who prefer a richer texture.
  • Cheese: Parmesan can be replaced with Pecorino Romano or a vegan cheese alternative for dietary preferences.
  • Author: Paula Susan
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Imagine the satisfying sizzle of shrimp as it hits the skillet, releasing a savory aroma spiced with smoked paprika and red pepper flakes. Visualize the rich, juicy flavors of ripe Roma tomatoes blending harmoniously with fresh basil, creating a sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. The addition of spinach adds a touch of freshness, balancing the richness of the dish while enhancing its nutritional value. Served with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, each bite is an explosion of flavor, warmth, and comfort.

Ingredients

This recipe keeps things simple while delivering maximum flavor. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the dish’s vibrant taste and texture. Here’s a breakdown:

  • 8 oz pasta (penne or spaghetti): The foundation of the dish, providing the perfect base to soak up the sauce. Penne adds a chewy texture, while spaghetti offers a classic twirlable option.
  • Salt for pasta water: Enhances the pasta’s flavor as it cooks.
  • 8 oz medium shrimp, peeled and deveined: Tender and juicy, shrimp adds a protein-packed highlight to the dish.
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Provides a subtle heat, complementing the sweetness of the tomatoes.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth that enriches the shrimp and overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that ties all the components together.
  • Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic base.
  • 4 Roma tomatoes, chopped: Fresh and juicy, they form the heart of the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Lends a bright, herbaceous note.
  • 6 oz fresh spinach: Adds color, texture, and a nutritional boost.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing, enhancing the richness of the dish.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional): Provides a creamy, salty finish when sprinkled on top.

Instructions

Crafting this dish is as enjoyable as eating it. Follow these simple steps for a dinner that will impress even the pickiest eater.

  1. Prepare the pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid will be essential later for adjusting the sauce’s consistency.
  2. Season and cook the shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel and season them with smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
  3. Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, add a touch more olive oil if needed, and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it, as it can become bitter.
  4. Create the tomato base: Add the chopped Roma tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to break down into a sauce-like consistency.
  5. Incorporate the spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until wilted. This step adds vibrant color and a dose of greens to the dish.
  6. Combine the elements: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, mixing them with the tomato-spinach base. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well combined. Use the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency as needed.
  7. Garnish and serve: Finish the dish by stirring in freshly chopped basil and topping it with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and savor the flavors.

Flavor Profile

This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dance of flavors and textures. The shrimp brings a savory, slightly sweet taste that pairs beautifully with the smoky and spicy notes from the paprika and red pepper flakes. The tomatoes add a rich, tangy base, complemented by the fresh brightness of basil. The spinach offers a subtle earthiness, while the Parmesan cheese adds a salty, creamy finish. Each bite is well-balanced, making it a dish that’s as comforting as it is exciting.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

  • Pasta: While penne and spaghetti are classic choices, you can experiment with other pasta shapes like fettuccine, rigatoni, or even gluten-free options.
  • Protein: Swap shrimp for chicken, tofu, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Cook chicken until fully done, or sauté mushrooms until golden brown to bring out their umami flavor.
  • Greens: Substitute spinach with kale, arugula, or Swiss chard for a slightly different texture and taste.
  • Tomatoes: If fresh Roma tomatoes are unavailable, canned diced tomatoes or cherry tomatoes can be used. They’ll provide a slightly different but equally delicious base.
  • Spices: Adjust the heat level by increasing or reducing the red pepper flakes. Add a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick.
  • Creaminess: For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream, cream cheese, or even coconut milk when adding the spinach. This variation works well for those who prefer a richer texture.
  • Cheese: Parmesan can be replaced with Pecorino Romano or a vegan cheese alternative for dietary preferences.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Pair it with the following for a complete meal:

  • Side Salad: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the pasta’s richness.
  • Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread or a soft dinner roll to soak up every bit of the sauce.
  • Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the shrimp and tomato flavors.

Cooking Tips

  • Don’t overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, and remove them promptly from the skillet.
  • Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and spinach make a noticeable difference in flavor compared to canned or dried alternatives.
  • Save pasta water: The starchy pasta water not only thins out the sauce but also helps it cling to the pasta for a cohesive dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is not just a recipe—it’s an experience. Its quick preparation time makes it perfect for busy evenings, while its vibrant presentation and flavors feel indulgent enough for special occasions. The fresh ingredients ensure you’re enjoying a wholesome meal, while the flexibility of the recipe allows you to tailor it to your taste preferences. The result is a dish that feels like it came straight out of a gourmet kitchen but is achievable for home cooks of all levels.

So, grab your skillet and pasta pot, and let the aromas of garlic, tomatoes, and shrimp fill your kitchen. This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is guaranteed to become a household favorite, delivering warmth, comfort, and satisfaction in every bite.

In conclusion, Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a true gem among quick and delicious dinner recipes. It effortlessly combines vibrant ingredients like juicy shrimp, fresh spinach, and flavorful tomatoes to create a dish that is both satisfying and elegant. Perfect for busy weeknights or a romantic meal, this pasta is a testament to the beauty of simple, wholesome cooking.

The versatility of this recipe allows you to tailor it to your preferences, whether by swapping proteins, adjusting spice levels, or adding a touch of creaminess. With its harmonious flavors, inviting textures, and ease of preparation, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

So, gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and let the magic unfold in your kitchen. Whether served with a crisp salad, crusty bread, or a glass of wine, Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta promises a dining experience that’s unforgettable, comforting, and utterly delightful.

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