Name: Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta in Garlic Butter Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 8 ounces pasta (any variety; gluten-free if preferred); 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or cherry tomatoes halved); 4 cups fresh spinach leaves; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta in Garlic Butter Sauce

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I absolutely love this Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta because it’s fresh, vibrant, and packed with bold flavors. Combining tender shrimp with juicy tomatoes and bright spinach, all tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, makes for a comforting yet healthy Italian-inspired dish. It’s quickly become a favorite in my kitchen, and it always disappears fast at the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta dish is a great way to use up fresh tomatoes and spinach, making it full of color and nutrients. The shrimp is perfectly seasoned with paprika and crushed red pepper, adding just the right amount of warmth without overpowering the fresh ingredients. The garlic butter sauce is both refreshing and indulgent, blending olive oil and butter with minced garlic to coat every bite with flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make gluten-free by simply swapping in gluten-free pasta. Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta in Garlic Butter Sauce

Ingredients

8 ounces pasta (your choice, gluten-free if preferred)
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (cherry tomatoes work great)
4 cups fresh spinach leaves
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Add chopped tomatoes and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing tomatoes to soften slightly but retain their shape.
Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Return shrimp to the skillet and toss with the vegetables and garlic butter sauce. Add cooked pasta and toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if needed.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

Variations

If you prefer a creamier dish, try adding a splash of heavy cream or stir in shredded mozzarella at the end. For a mushroom lover’s version, sauté mushrooms with the garlic before adding tomatoes. You can also swap shrimp for chicken or scallops depending on your preference.

Storage and reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely before cooking and pat dry to ensure good searing.

What kind of pasta works best?

Any pasta you like! Spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or gluten-free options all work well.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Skip the shrimp and add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a vegetarian version.

How spicy is this recipe?

It has a mild kick from the crushed red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the amount to your taste.

Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead?

You can cook the pasta and prep the vegetables ahead of time, but I recommend cooking the shrimp fresh for best texture.

Conclusion

Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta in Garlic Butter Sauce is one of my favorite quick and flavorful meals. It combines fresh ingredients with bold spices and a comforting sauce that makes every bite satisfying. Whether I’m cooking for family or guests, it’s always a crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough to whip up on a busy night.