Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta – A Quick & Flavorful 30-Minute Dinner

There is something magical about a pasta dish that comes together effortlessly while still delivering bold, fresh flavors. This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a perfect example of how a handful of simple ingredients can create a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes. It’s packed with juicy shrimp, ripe tomatoes, and vibrant spinach, all tossed in a light garlic butter sauce that coats every strand of pasta beautifully.

If you love pasta dishes that feel indulgent but remain light and fresh, this one is for you. The natural sweetness of the shrimp pairs wonderfully with the slight acidity of the tomatoes, while the garlic and butter add richness without making the dish too heavy. Plus, the spinach brings in a pop of color and a boost of nutrients, making this meal both visually appealing and good for you.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick but don’t want to sacrifice quality or flavor. It also works well for date nights at home when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep and a short cooking time, this dish proves that gourmet flavors don’t have to be complicated.

Whether you’re new to cooking shrimp or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow. And the best part? You can customize it with different pasta shapes, swap out the spinach for other greens, or even make it spicier if you like a bit of heat. No matter how you tweak it, this Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First, it’s quick and easy—you can have a full meal on the table in under 30 minutes, which is a lifesaver on busy nights.

Second, it’s packed with flavor. The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh tomatoes creates a rich yet light sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. The shrimp add a slightly sweet, briny taste that balances beautifully with the acidity of the tomatoes.

Another reason to love this dish is its versatility. You can use any type of pasta you have on hand—spaghetti, linguine, or even penne all work well. If you prefer a gluten-free version, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta.

It’s also healthy without feeling restrictive. Unlike creamy pasta dishes that can feel too heavy, this one keeps things light while still being incredibly satisfying. The spinach provides vitamins and antioxidants, while the shrimp offer a great source of lean protein.

Lastly, this dish is visually stunning. The bright reds from the tomatoes, the vibrant green spinach, and the pink shrimp create a beautiful contrast on the plate. It’s the kind of meal that looks just as good as it tastes.

Health Benefits

This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta isn’t just delicious—it’s also loaded with nutrients that make it a great addition to a balanced diet.

• Shrimp is a great source of lean protein, meaning you’ll feel full and satisfied without consuming excess calories. It’s also rich in selenium, which helps with immune function and metabolism.
• Tomatoes provide antioxidants like lycopene, which has been linked to heart health and reduced inflammation. They also contain vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system.
• Spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and vitamin K. It’s also low in calories while being high in fiber, which supports digestive health.
• Olive oil and butter add heart-healthy fats, which help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins while giving the dish a rich, satisfying taste.
• Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.

When you combine these ingredients in one dish, you get a meal that is nourishing, balanced, and absolutely delicious.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fats: 15g
• Fiber: 5g

This dish provides a great balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, making it a satisfying meal that will keep you energized.

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients:

• 8 ounces spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
• 12 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (if needed)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for serving)

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water, which can be used to loosen the sauce later if needed.

2. Prepare the Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel and season them with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

3. Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.

Add the halved grape tomatoes and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to release their juices.

4. Cook the Shrimp

Push the tomatoes to one side of the skillet and add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.

5. Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Add the Spinach

Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts, which should take about 1 minute.

7. Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet and toss to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

8. Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and extra red pepper flakes, if desired.

How to Serve

• With Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy slice of garlic bread is the perfect side.
• With a Side Salad: A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances out the meal.
• As a One-Pan Dish: This pasta is hearty enough to stand alone as a complete meal.

Pairing Suggestions

• Beverage: Serve with a chilled glass of lemon-infused water or sparkling juice.
• Side Dish: Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli complement the dish beautifully.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as shrimp can become rubbery when frozen.

Best Pasta Choices for This Recipe

Choosing the right pasta is essential for the perfect texture and balance in this dish. Long pasta like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine works best because it allows the light garlic butter sauce to coat every strand evenly. If you prefer a shorter pasta, penne, farfalle, or rigatoni are great alternatives as they hold onto the sauce in their ridges.

For a healthier twist, whole wheat or chickpea pasta adds extra fiber and protein. Gluten-free pasta is also an option, but it’s best to cook it slightly under the recommended time to prevent it from becoming mushy when tossed with the sauce. If you love extra chewy pasta, bronze-cut pasta is an excellent choice because its rough texture grips the sauce better. No matter what type of pasta you choose, make sure to cook it al dente to maintain the perfect bite.

How to Adjust This Recipe for Special Diets

This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is already a light and healthy dish, but it can be easily adapted to fit different dietary needs. To make it dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. If you need a gluten-free version, opt for your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure that your broth is gluten-free.

For a low-carb alternative, replace the pasta with zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or shirataki noodles. These options provide a lighter meal while still allowing you to enjoy the rich flavors of the dish. If you want a vegetarian version, swap the shrimp for mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be customized based on your preferences or dietary restrictions.

How to Make This Dish Extra Flavorful

If you want to elevate the taste of this dish, small tweaks can make a big difference. First, roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the skillet will bring out their natural sweetness and deepen the flavor of the sauce. You can also enhance the shrimp by marinating them for 10-15 minutes in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and red pepper flakes for extra depth.

Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens up the dish and enhances the seafood flavor. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top adds freshness, while toasted pine nuts or crushed red pepper flakes bring texture and heat. If you prefer a richer sauce, you can stir in a small amount of cream or coconut milk to create a velvety finish.

How to Make This a Meal Prep-Friendly Dish

This pasta dish is great for meal prep with a few simple adjustments. If you plan to make it ahead, store the cooked shrimp separately from the pasta to prevent overcooking when reheating. You can also cook the pasta slightly under al dente, as it will continue to soften when stored with the sauce.

For easy meal prep, divide the dish into airtight containers and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce. If you want to make the dish freezer-friendly, cook everything except the shrimp and spinach, then freeze the pasta and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight, cook fresh shrimp, and stir in spinach before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! If using frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a bowl of cold water for 15-20 minutes before cooking.

What can I use instead of spinach?
Kale, arugula, or Swiss chard are great alternatives. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on how delicate or hearty the greens are.

How can I make this dish spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes while cooking, or drizzle a bit of spicy chili oil on top before serving.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best texture, store the shrimp separately and reheat gently.

What’s the best way to reheat this pasta?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving shrimp for too long, as they can become rubbery.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh tomatoes provide the best texture. If using canned, opt for diced tomatoes, drained, or fire-roasted tomatoes for added flavor.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is proof that a delicious, high-quality meal doesn’t have to be complicated. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below or share your dish on social media. Enjoy!

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