Shrimp Pasta With Spinach And Parmesan

Name: Shrimp Pasta With Spinach And Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz linguine or spaghetti; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick Kitchen Creations

I love preparing Shrimp Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan because it combines fresh ingredients with a quick and simple cooking method. This dish is a family favorite for its delightful flavors and satisfying textures. The juicy shrimp pair perfectly with the creamy Parmesan sauce and the bright notes of spinach. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that brings everyone together at the table. It's my go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-27T15:17:35.436Z

When I first experimented with this Shrimp Pasta, I wanted to create a dish that felt hearty yet light. Using fresh spinach, I found that it not only added vibrant color but also a rich nutritional boost. The combination of garlic sautéed in olive oil and the subtle sweetness of shrimp made the flavors pop beautifully. I recommend cooking the pasta al dente; it absorbs the sauce wonderfully, making each bite satisfying.

One tip I discovered is to reserve a little pasta water before draining it. This starchy water can help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick, ensuring every strand of pasta is perfectly coated. Ideally, serve the dish fresh, as it tastes best right after preparation. Enjoy this simple yet elegant meal with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp cooked to perfection in a creamy sauce
Nutritious spinach adding both flavor and color
Quick preparation time makes it ideal for any occasion

Perfecting the Shrimp Cook

Cooking shrimp requires precision to achieve the perfect texture. When cooking, ensure your shrimp are not overcrowded in the pot; this allows them to sear properly rather than steam. You'll know they are done when they turn bright pink and become opaque, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so keep an eye on them as they cook.

After sautéing the shrimp, be careful not to skip the step of adding the spinach immediately after. The residual heat from the shrimp will help wilt the spinach quickly, enhancing its flavor while retaining a vibrant green color. This brief cooking time for the spinach is crucial to prevent it from losing nutrients and a fresh taste.

The Role of Parmesan

Parmesan cheese serves as a flavor powerhouse in this dish. Its nutty and savory notes meld beautifully with the shrimp and spinach, providing a creamy texture that binds the ingredients together. For the best results, opt for freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-grated versions, as the latter contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting and flavor.

If you're looking to make this dish lactose-free, consider using nutritional yeast or a lactose-free cheese alternative. While the flavor profile might change slightly, you'll still achieve a creamy consistency by adding your chosen substitute gradually to ensure it blends well with the pasta and shrimp.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Be aware that the shrimp might lose their firmness during storage, but a quick reheating can help refresh the dish. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

For meal prepping, you can prepare the shrimp and spinach in advance but keep the pasta separate until ready to serve. Cook the pasta fresh each time to maintain its al dente texture. Combining them at the last minute ensures that every bite is as delicious as the first.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz linguine or spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté Garlic and Shrimp

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp and cook for about 3-4 minutes until pink and opaque.

Add Spinach and Combine

Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt, about 1-2 minutes. Add the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese, tossing everything together. If the mixture is too dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

Season and Serve

Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately topped with additional Parmesan cheese and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding some lemon zest or juice before serving. You can also substitute the shrimp with chicken for a different protein option.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this Shrimp Pasta with a light side salad can elevate your meal. A simple arugula or mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the pasta, adding freshness. You could also serve it alongside garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

For a burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving. They offer a bright contrast that ties the dish together beautifully. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top can also enhance the overall brightness of flavors.

Variations to Try

For a twist on this recipe, you can substitute the shrimp with scallops or grilled chicken, both of which will provide a different texture and flavor profile. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try including sautéed mushrooms or zucchini in place of the shrimp.

Spicing it up can also be a fun variation; consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean flair. Alternatively, adjusting the level of red pepper flakes or adding chopped jalapeños can provide a pleasant heat without overwhelming the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them before cooking.

→ What type of pasta should I use?

Linguine or spaghetti work best, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can use whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of cheese to cut calories.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers or cherry tomatoes are great additions.