Shrimp Spinach Pasta is a delicious and quick dish that combines succulent shrimp with fresh spinach and pasta in a light, flavorful sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and is both satisfying and nutritious!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your choice)
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Timing

Making the Shrimp Spinach Pasta takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Shrimp

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.
2. Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Garlic and Spinach

1. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add Spinach and Tomatoes: Add the fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Return Shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet along with the drained pasta.
2. Add Cheese and Lemon: Pour in the reserved pasta water, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate and Garnish: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of the Shrimp Spinach Pasta (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	400
Protein	30g
Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	2g

Tips for Customization

• Add More Veggies: Include bell peppers, asparagus, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of cream cheese for a richer sauce.
• Use Different Proteins: Substitute shrimp with chicken or scallops for a different twist.

Conclusion

Shrimp Spinach Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With its fresh ingredients and delicious taste, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy this delightful recipe!