A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines juicy shrimp, tender spinach, and a rich tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to serve for guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This tomato spinach shrimp pasta brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both fresh and satisfying. The shrimp cook quickly and absorb the flavors of garlic and tomato beautifully, while the spinach adds a light, nutritious balance. It’s a one-pan-friendly meal that saves time without sacrificing taste. The sauce is rich but not heavy, making it perfect for any season. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced cook, this recipe is straightforward and reliable.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
250 g spaghetti or linguine
300 g raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
400 g canned crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
100 g fresh spinach leaves
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
Directions
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a quarter cup of pasta water before draining.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside to avoid overcooking.
In the same skillet, add the tomato paste and stir for a minute to deepen its flavor. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add oregano, basil, and chili flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer for about 8–10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, which should take about 2 minutes. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and stir gently.
Add the drained pasta directly into the sauce along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Finish by sprinkling grated parmesan cheese on top and gently mixing before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 3 to 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
You can easily customize this dish to suit your taste. Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables and texture. If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a few tablespoons of cooking cream toward the end. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used as a healthier alternative. For a stronger flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. You can also replace shrimp with grilled chicken if desired.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a pan over medium heat and add a small splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.
Avoid overcooking during reheating as shrimp can become rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
What type of pasta works best?
Spaghetti and linguine are ideal, but penne or fettuccine also work well.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Is fresh spinach necessary?
Fresh spinach is preferred, but frozen spinach can be used if properly drained.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce ahead, but cook the pasta fresh for best texture.
How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?
Cook them just until pink and opaque, then remove from heat promptly.
Can I omit the cheese?
Yes, the dish will still be flavorful without parmesan.
What can I substitute for tomato paste?
You can use extra crushed tomatoes, though the flavor will be slightly lighter.
Can I add herbs?
Fresh parsley or basil makes a great garnish and adds freshness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well and reheats easily, making it great for planning meals.
Conclusion
Tomato spinach shrimp pasta is a delicious combination of simplicity and flavor. With minimal preparation and cooking time, it delivers a satisfying and balanced meal that works for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to adjust ingredients based on preference, making it a recipe you can return to again and again.
