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A close-up overhead shot of a rustic bowl filled with delicious Tomato and Spinach Shrimp Pasta, garnished with cheese and pepper.
Layla

Zesty Tomato and Spinach Shrimp Pasta

A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp, sun-ripened tomatoes, and fresh spinach tossed in a light, garlicky sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels gourmet.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
  • 1 tbsp olive oil plus more for cooking
  • 1 tsp salt for pasta water
For the Shrimp
  • 1 lbs large shrimp peeled, deveined, tails on or off
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio (or chicken broth)
  • 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 5 oz fresh spinach
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Colander

Method
 

Prepare the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Cook the Shrimp
  1. While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tbsp olive oil, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce
  1. In the same skillet (no need to clean), add 2 tbsp olive oil and reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften and burst.
  3. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth if omitting wine) and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly. Stir in the dried oregano and black pepper.
Combine and Finish
  1. Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash or two of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
  2. Add the fresh spinach and cook, tossing constantly, until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Stir in the cooked shrimp, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh lemon juice. Toss gently to combine and heat through for about 1 minute.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve
  1. Divide the pasta among serving plates. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end. If you don't have fresh tomatoes, a can of diced tomatoes (drained) can be used, though fresh is preferred. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery.