Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach

Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach is one of those dishes that feels elegant yet comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. This recipe combines succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic and olive oil with tender pasta, fresh spinach, and a light, flavorful sauce.

The shrimp provide a juicy, savory bite, while the spinach adds freshness and color, making the dish not only delicious but also nutritious. What makes this pasta truly irresistible is its simplicity—the ingredients are minimal, but the flavors are bold and perfectly balanced.

The garlic infuses the olive oil, coating the pasta and shrimp with an aromatic richness that’s satisfying without being heavy. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet light, nourishing yet comforting, and guaranteed to impress anyone at the table.

Why I Love This Recipe

We love Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach because it beautifully blends bold flavors with nourishing ingredients in a way that feels both comforting and refreshing. The garlic-infused olive oil creates a simple yet deeply flavorful base that coats the pasta and shrimp perfectly, delivering that irresistible aroma and taste in every bite. The shrimp bring a juicy, savory richness, while the fresh spinach adds a pop of color, freshness, and nutrition, making the dish wholesome without sacrificing indulgence.

Another reason we adore this recipe is how quickly it comes together—perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Despite its simplicity, it feels restaurant-worthy, which makes it equally great for entertaining guests. Plus, it’s versatile: you can enjoy it as a light meal, pair it with a crisp salad, or dress it up with Parmesan and red pepper flakes. It’s the kind of dish that proves simple ingredients can make an extraordinary meal.

Why You Must Try It

You must try Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach because it strikes the perfect balance between flavor, nutrition, and simplicity. This dish highlights how a handful of everyday ingredients—garlic, shrimp, spinach, pasta, and olive oil—can come together to create a meal that feels both gourmet and comforting. The shrimp cook quickly and soak up the garlicky, savory flavors, while the spinach adds a fresh, earthy touch that lightens the pasta beautifully.

It’s also a must-try because of how practical it is—ready in under 30 minutes, made in just one pan plus pasta pot, and versatile enough for both casual weeknight dinners and elegant entertaining. The combination of lean protein, greens, and pasta makes it satisfying without being heavy, and you can customize it easily with Parmesan, chili flakes, or even a splash of white wine for extra depth. It’s a dish that proves you don’t need complex recipes to enjoy a truly delicious, well-rounded meal.

Time & Yield:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 25–30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~460–500 kcal

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz (225g) spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine
• Salt for pasta water

For the Garlic Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4–5 garlic cloves, minced

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking pasta)
• Extra lemon wedges and chopped parsley for garnish

Direction

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.
5. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add white wine (or broth) and lemon juice.
2. Scrape up any bits from the pan with a wooden spoon and let the liquid reduce slightly (about 2–3 minutes).
3. Add spinach and cook until wilted (1–2 minutes).

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return cooked shrimp to the skillet along with drained pasta.
2. Add reserved pasta water and toss to coat everything evenly.
3. Stir in Parmesan if using, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Serve immediately with parsley and lemon wedges.

Tips & Variations:

Tips:

• Use fresh shrimp for the best texture, but frozen (thawed) works great too.
• Don’t overcook shrimp—they only need 1–2 minutes per side.
• Deglaze properly with wine or broth to lift those flavorful bits from the pan.

Variations:

• Make it creamy: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half for a rich, velvety sauce.
• Add more veggies: Toss in cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or asparagus.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta.
• Add a kick: More red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for spice lovers.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic bread or crusty sourdough
• Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Grilled vegetables or roasted Brussels sprouts
• A glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

Conclusion

Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach is more than just a meal—it’s a full sensory experience. It’s aromatic, comforting, vibrant, and packed with flavor. In under 30 minutes, you can serve something that feels luxurious but is grounded in fresh, simple ingredients.

It’s a perfect weeknight dinner but also sophisticated enough for entertaining. With its rich garlic butter base, light lemony finish, and hearty shrimp and greens, this pasta dish offers everything you could want in one bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before cooking.

Q: What kind of pasta works best?

Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are great choices. You can also use penne or rotini if you prefer short pasta.

Q: Can I substitute spinach?

Yes! Kale, arugula, or Swiss chard can be used. Just cook a bit longer for tougher greens.

Q: What if I don’t have wine?

Use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead. Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for acidity.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?

Absolutely. Skip the Parmesan and butter, and use olive oil or a dairy-free alternative for richness.