Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe with Garlic Butter Sauce

Name: tomato spinach shrimp pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 8 ounces (about 220g) uncooked spaghetti or pasta of choice (penne, fettuccine, or linguine can be substituted); – 1 pound (about 450g) uncooked shrimp (31-40 per pound), peeled and deveined, tails optional; – 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus optional 2 tablespoons for finishing); – 2 to 4 tablespoons butter (depending on preference); – 3 to 5 cloves garlic, minced; – 10 ounces (about 280g) grape or Roma tomatoes, halved or chopped; – 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken broth (or substitute with dry white wine); – 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning; – 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); – 2 cups fresh baby spinach (or about 6 oz fresh spinach), packed; – Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; – 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika (optional); – Fresh basil leaves (about 1/4 cup), chopped (optional); – 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional); – Fresh lemon juice (about 1/4 to 1/2 small lemon), optional

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Benefits and Advantages of tomato spinach shrimp pasta

Ease of preparation: Tomato spinach shrimp pasta is quick and simple, requiring only common ingredients and minimal cooking steps. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you need a fast, satisfying meal.
Health benefits: Combining nutrient-dense spinach, lean shrimp, and vitamin-rich tomatoes, this dish offers a balanced mix of protein, antioxidants, and essential vitamins. It supports heart health, immune function, and overall wellness in a flavorful way.
Versatility: The recipe easily adapts to various dietary needs. Swap traditional pasta for gluten-free options, or replace shrimp with plant-based proteins to accommodate vegan or vegetarian diets, making the dish inclusive and flexible.
Distinctive flavor: The interplay of fresh tomatoes, wilted spinach, and succulent shrimp cooked in a garlic butter sauce creates a bright, vibrant, and comforting flavor profile, enhanced by optional herbs and spices for a well-rounded meal.

Jump To

1. Benefits and Advantages of tomato spinach shrimp pasta
2. Essential Ingredients for tomato spinach shrimp pasta
3. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your tomato spinach shrimp pasta
4. How to Prepare the Perfect tomato spinach shrimp pasta: Step-by-Step Guide
5. Mastering tomato spinach shrimp pasta: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store tomato spinach shrimp pasta: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About tomato spinach shrimp pasta
8. tomato spinach shrimp pasta

Essential Ingredients for tomato spinach shrimp pasta

8 ounces (about 220g) uncooked spaghetti or pasta of choice (penne, fettuccine, or linguine can be substituted)
1 pound (about 450g) uncooked shrimp (31-40 per pound), peeled and deveined, tails optional
1 tablespoon olive oil (plus optional 2 tablespoons for finishing)
2 to 4 tablespoons butter (depending on preference)
3 to 5 cloves garlic, minced
10 ounces (about 280g) grape or Roma tomatoes, halved or chopped
1/4 cup (60ml) chicken broth (or substitute with dry white wine)
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 cups fresh baby spinach (or about 6 oz fresh spinach), packed
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika (optional)
Fresh basil leaves (about 1/4 cup), chopped (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Fresh lemon juice (about 1/4 to 1/2 small lemon), optional

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your tomato spinach shrimp pasta

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

Replace shrimp with grilled chicken breast or firm tofu for a different protein source that complements the recipe well.
Use plant-based proteins such as tempeh or chickpeas for vegan and vegetarian options that integrate smoothly with the tomatoes and spinach.
For a lighter variation, substitute shrimp with white fish or scallops to reduce calories while maintaining a seafood flavor.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Add or substitute vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or kale based on availability and preference to enhance texture and nutrition.
Swap the sauce for a simple garlic and olive oil drizzle or a creamy avocado sauce to accommodate dietary restrictions or tastes.
Customize herbs and spices by including basil, oregano, or crushed red pepper flakes to adjust the flavor profile to your liking.

For more delicious pasta ideas, check our Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe or the Chicken Mozzarella Pasta.

Learn about the Health Benefits of Shrimp, Nutritional Value of Spinach, and How to Cook Perfect Spaghetti to perfect your pasta dishes.

How to Prepare the Perfect tomato spinach shrimp pasta: Step-by-Step Guide

Prepare ingredients: Rinse and peel 1 pound of shrimp, wash 2 cups of fresh spinach, halve 10 ounces of grape or Roma tomatoes, mince 3 to 5 cloves of garlic, and measure out the pasta and oils. Having everything ready makes cooking smooth and efficient.
Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 8 ounces of uncooked spaghetti or your pasta of choice until al dente following package instructions. Drain well, reserving some pasta water.
Sauté garlic and tomatoes: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 to 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Then, add tomatoes, 1/4 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine), 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and optional crushed red pepper flakes or paprika. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften, about 5 minutes.
Cook shrimp and spinach: Add shrimp seasoned with salt, pepper, and optional paprika to the skillet. Cook over medium heat for 2 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add fresh chopped basil if desired. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Toss pasta and finish: Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to combine with the shrimp and vegetable mixture. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water or chicken broth to achieve desired sauce consistency. Optionally stir in remaining butter and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten flavors.
Serve: Serve immediately, topped with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, if using. Enjoy with a side like garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal.

Mastering tomato spinach shrimp pasta: Advanced Tips and Variations

Pro cooking techniques

Sear shrimp quickly at high heat to keep them tender and juicy.
Deglaze the skillet with dry white wine or chicken broth after cooking shrimp and tomatoes for deeper sauce flavor.
Use freshly grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves to add layers of savory and herbaceous notes.

Flavor variations

Add sun-dried tomatoes or a splash of cream to create a richer sauce.
Incorporate mushrooms or bell peppers to increase vegetable variety.
Adjust spice levels with crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.

Presentation and make-ahead

Garnish with chopped fresh herbs and a sprinkle of cheese for visual appeal.
Cook pasta and shrimp separately ahead, store in airtight containers, and combine just before reheating to maintain freshness.

How to Store tomato spinach shrimp pasta: Best Practices

Refrigeration: Store cooked pasta combined with shrimp and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to preserve flavor and texture.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze components separately pasta and shrimp to avoid texture alterations. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to moisten. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying and rubbery shrimp.
Meal prep: Portion meals individually and vacuum seal if possible to extend freshness and convenience.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About tomato spinach shrimp pasta

How do I make tomato spinach shrimp pasta at home?

To make tomato spinach shrimp pasta, start by sautéing shrimp in olive oil, garlic, and butter until they turn pink (about 2-4 minutes). Season with salt and paprika. Add chopped fresh tomatoes, cooked spinach, and crushed red pepper, then cook briefly to keep tomatoes fresh. Meanwhile, cook your pasta al dente according to package instructions. Drain and combine the pasta with the shrimp mixture, adding a splash of lemon juice and extra butter for flavor. Heat everything together until warmed through, then serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

What pasta is best for tomato spinach shrimp pasta, and can I make it gluten-free?

Penne, fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti all work well with tomato spinach shrimp pasta; choose the shape you prefer. For a gluten-free option, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free noodles made from rice, corn, or legumes. Remember to rinse gluten-free pasta after cooking to prevent stickiness. Cooking pasta al dente is important, as it will absorb some of the sauce while maintaining a good texture.

How should I store and reheat leftover tomato spinach shrimp pasta?

Store leftover shrimp pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the pasta moist and prevent drying. Although you can freeze the dish, the pasta texture may suffer after thawing, so it’s best to avoid freezing if possible.

What are some healthy benefits of tomato spinach shrimp pasta?

This dish provides a balanced mix of protein from shrimp, vitamins, and antioxidants from tomatoes and spinach, and healthy fats from olive oil. Shrimp is low in calories and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, while spinach offers iron and fiber. Using fresh ingredients with minimal cooking preserves nutrients, making this pasta a nutritious Mediterranean-style meal.

Can I adjust the spice level in tomato spinach shrimp pasta, and how?

Yes, you can easily adjust the spice to your taste. The recipe often includes crushed red pepper and paprika for flavor and mild heat. Reduce or omit crushed red pepper to make it mild, or add extra if you prefer a spicier dish. Alternatively, include fresh chili slices or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a more intense kick. Always add spices gradually to reach your desired heat level.

1 thought on “Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce for a Quick Weeknight Dinner”

Lena Marsh

June 30, 2025 at 11:55 pm

I made this pasta dish for dinner last night, and it was a hit! The combination of shrimp, spinach, and tomatoes is just divine. 😊 I added a splash of white wine to the sauce for a little extra zing. Thanks for the great recipe!

★★★★★

Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce for a Quick Weeknight Dinner