Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure that perfectly marries the ocean’s bounty with garden-fresh flavors! This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of how simple ingredients can come together to create an explosion of taste. Imagine tender shrimp, vibrant spinach, and juicy tomatoes all wrapped around al dente pasta, tossed in a fragrant olive oil sauce. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner for friends or just treating yourself to a special meal, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Once done, drain it and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, allowing it to warm up beautifully.
- Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Sauté them until they turn a gorgeous pink and opaque color, which should take about 2-3 minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
- Now, add the undrained diced tomatoes along with the Italian seasoning to the skillet. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together deliciously.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and continue to cook until it wilts, which should take another 2-3 minutes. This adds a beautiful vibrant color to the dish!
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, giving everything a good mix to combine all those wonderful flavors.
- Toss in the pasta and gently combine with the shrimp and tomato mixture, ensuring every strand is well-coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. When ready to serve, sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy!
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick of flavor, you could add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the garlic sautéing step. Additionally, feel free to swap out the shrimp for other proteins, such as chicken or tofu, to suit your taste!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the sautéing technique, which is great for cooking shrimp quickly while allowing the ingredients to retain their freshness and flavor. Stirring frequently helps to ensure even cooking, and the residual heat of the skillet aids in melding all the delightful flavors together.
FAQ
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
What can I serve this with?
A crisp green salad and a glass of white wine would pair wonderfully with this dish!
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of olive oil.
Conclusion
This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the ocean and garden in one delectable offering. With its quick preparation time and the ability to impress at any dinner table, it’s a perfect dish for any occasion. You’ll find that every bite is a burst of flavor that speaks to the heart—making it a favorite in your recipe rotation. Happy cooking!