Introduction
Comfort food doesn’t get much better than this delicious Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta! This vibrant dish brings together plump shrimp, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes, all tossed with perfectly cooked linguine for a meal that’s not just satisfying but also bursting with flavor. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s sure to impress, making it an ideal option for everything from weeknight dinners to inviting friends over for a cozy evening. Let’s dive into how to create this scrumptious dish that combines simplicity with delightful Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
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 linguine according to the package directions until it reaches a perfect al dente texture. Drain and set aside, allowing the pasta to cool slightly.
- In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Next, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Continue to cook for an additional minute, letting the wonderful aroma fill your kitchen.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juice, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until they turn pink and are thoroughly cooked through.
- At this point, stir in the fresh spinach and the cooked pasta, tossing everything together until combined. The spinach will wilt beautifully, adding a vibrant green hue to your dish.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, then remove from heat.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
Notes or Tips
For a little extra kick, feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. You can also add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in a skillet over low heat. If you find it a little dry after refrigerating, add a splash of olive oil or a little water during reheating.
Cooking Techniques
When sautéing onions, it’s important not to rush—cooking them slowly allows their natural sweetness to emerge, which creates a flavor base for your dish. Additionally, cooking the shrimp just until pink ensures they remain tender and juicy, avoiding an overcooked texture. Always taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance of seasonings!
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, frozen shrimp work beautifully! Just ensure that they are thawed, peeled, and deveined before cooking.
What type of tomatoes should I use? Canned diced tomatoes are perfect for this dish, but you can use fresh tomatoes if you prefer. Just chop them up and use around 2 cups for a fresh flavor.
Can this dish be made ahead of time? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving to keep everything perfect!
Conclusion
This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is not only a quick and easy meal, but it’s also a delightful explosion of colors and flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner party, this dish showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Give it a try, and watch your friends and family come back for seconds!