If you are looking to wow your taste buds and impress anyone you serve, the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp with Spinach Pasta Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Creamy, tangy sun-dried tomatoes combine effortlessly with tender shrimp and fresh spinach, all enveloped in a luscious sauce that hugs every strand of perfectly cooked pasta. This dish feels like a restaurant-quality indulgence but comes together quickly enough for a special weeknight treat. Whether you’re craving comforting flavors or a colorful plate to brighten your day, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmonious balance of flavors each ingredient brings to the table. Each component is essential, contributing to the creamy texture, vibrant color, or that irresistible flavor burst that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined): Tender and juicy, shrimp provide the perfect, delicate protein for this creamy pasta.
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice): Acts as the comforting base that soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and is perfect for sautéing shrimp and vegetables.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Offers a slight sweetness and aromatic foundation for the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant depth that complements the shrimp and spinach perfectly.
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, chopped): Provides that signature tangy, rich flavor that makes this recipe so special.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to that irresistibly creamy sauce that binds everything together.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Lightens the sauce slightly while building savory complexity.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds an umami punch and creamy consistency as it melts.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Offers a fresh, leafy contrast and a pop of vibrant green color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and elevating all the flavors.
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat): Adds just the right kick to awaken the palate.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): For that final aromatic, fresh flourish.
How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp with Spinach Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking your preferred pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining — it’s a handy addition later to adjust your sauce’s consistency.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When it’s shimmering, add the shrimp seasoned with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn a gorgeous pink and are cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing them until they soften and release their wonderful aroma — this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This step layers the dish with a sweet and savory foundation.
Step 4: Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. Their unique tanginess will begin to permeate the mixture, elevating the flavor profile beautifully.
Step 5: Create the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly into a luscious base that’s ready to cling to the pasta.
Step 6: Add Spinach and Parmesan
Next, stir in the fresh spinach and allow it to wilt down, which should take about 2 minutes. Then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts fully, creating a silky smooth sauce packed with flavor.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat every noodle in the creamy sauce. Return the shrimp to the pan and mix everything carefully. If you feel the sauce is a bit too thick, stir in some of the reserved pasta water little by little until you reach your desired creaminess.
Step 8: Final Seasoning and Garnish
Give your dish a final taste, adjusting the seasoning with a pinch more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you want to amp up the heat. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley for that pop of freshness and color.
How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp with Spinach Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top is a simple way to brighten the flavors and make the dish look as wonderful as it tastes. A little extra grated Parmesan at the table never hurts either if you want to indulge a bit more.
Side Dishes
This dish is so rich and flavorful that it pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides like a garden salad or garlic-roasted asparagus. A crusty loaf of bread is perfect for dipping into any remaining sauce — trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop!
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the pasta in stylish shallow bowls garnished with vibrant herbs and a few halved cherry tomatoes to highlight the sun-dried tomato theme. Alternatively, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds subtle texture and ensures your presentation is as inviting as the taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because of the creamy sauce, it’s best enjoyed fresh, but kept chilled, it remains delicious and ready for a quick meal.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible, but the texture of the spinach might soften after thawing. If you choose to freeze, transfer portions to airtight containers and freeze for up to 1 month. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Microwaving works too, but stir halfway through to heat evenly and prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry to avoid extra water in your dish. This helps maintain that creamy, rich sauce texture.
What pasta shape works best with this creamy sun-dried tomato shrimp with spinach pasta recipe?
Spaghetti or fettuccine are classic choices because their shape pairs wonderfully with the sauce. But feel free to experiment with penne, linguine, or even gluten-free options to suit your preference.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Yes, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use a light cream alternative. Just keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy but still tasty.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe ahead of time?
You can chop the onion, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes in advance, and even cook the shrimp ahead then refrigerate. Just finish the sauce and assemble everything fresh for best results.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the creaminess. You can adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance or omit them entirely for a milder dish.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to try the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp with Spinach Pasta Recipe because it truly feels like a special meal made easy. Its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and comforting textures have never failed to delight me and everyone I’ve shared it with. Whip this up for your next dinner and prepare for some happy, hungry smiles around the table!
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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp with Spinach Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy sun-dried tomato shrimp with spinach pasta is a flavorful and comforting seafood pasta dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender shrimp are sautéed and combined with a rich, creamy sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, tossed with fresh spinach and your choice of pasta.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Pasta
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, chopped)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Additional Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for the sauce if needed.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season and Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Add Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
- Add Spinach and Cheese: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
- Serve the Dish: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Use vegetable broth to make the dish pescatarian friendly.
- For a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lactose-free cream alternative.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency for a silky texture.
- Red pepper flakes add a gentle heat but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
