Shrimp with Spinach is the ultimate dish for busy weeknights features juicy, succulent shrimp are perfectly seasoned and sautéed, then paired with vibrant, nutrient-rich spinach for a winning combination. Served on its own, over a bed of rice, or with crusty bread for dipping.
Why Shrimp with Spinach is a Perfect Combination
The pairing of shrimp and spinach is a match made in culinary heaven. Here’s why:
- Nutrient-Packed: Shrimp is high in protein and low in fat, while spinach provides a hefty dose of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Quick Cooking: Both shrimp and spinach cook in minutes, making this a go-to recipe for busy days.
- Versatile Flavors: This dish can be adapted with various seasonings, sauces, and accompaniments.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Shrimp with Spinach
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become rubbery. Keep an eye on them and remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and curl up.
- Drain Excess Water: If your spinach releases too much water, cook a bit longer until most of the liquid evaporates.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and lemon juice make a significant difference in flavor.
- Add a Crunch: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for extra texture.
Variations to Try
- Creamy Version: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the skillet after wilting the spinach for a creamy sauce.
- Asian Twist: Use sesame oil instead of olive oil, and add soy sauce, ginger, and a sprinkle of green onions.
- Tomato Addition: Throw in some halved cherry tomatoes when cooking the shrimp for a burst of sweetness and color.
- Pasta Dish: Toss the shrimp and spinach with your favorite pasta and a bit more olive oil for a heartier meal.
How to Serve Shrimp with Spinach
This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with several side options:
- Over Pasta: Angel hair or linguine work perfectly. Toss with extra olive oil or garlic butter.
- With Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a wholesome meal.
- On Toasted Bread: Pile the shrimp and spinach onto slices of toasted ciabatta for a delicious bruschetta-style appetizer.
- With a Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances the rich flavors of the shrimp and spinach.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Reheat Gently: Reheat in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out.
- Freezing: It’s best to consume this dish fresh, but you can freeze it if needed. Be aware that the spinach may lose some texture upon thawing.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work great. Just make sure to thaw them properly in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking.
Is frozen spinach a good substitute for fresh?
Frozen spinach can be used, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water to prevent a watery dish.
How do I make the dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! The recipe as provided is already dairy-free, but if you want to make a creamy version, use a dairy-free cream alternative.
What can I substitute for olive oil?
You can use avocado oil, coconut oil, or even butter for a richer flavor.
Shrimp with Spinach
Shrimp with Spinach is the ultimate dish for busy weeknights features juicy, succulent shrimp are perfectly seasoned and sautéed, then paired with vibrant, nutrient-rich spinach for a winning combination. Served on its own, over a bed of rice, or with crusty bread for dipping.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 ½ teaspoons granulated garlic powder
- 20 frozen shrimp, thawed
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, or as needed
Instructions
- Start by placing the fresh baby spinach in a large bowl. Sprinkle with granulated garlic powder and give it a good toss to coat evenly.
- In another bowl, add the thawed shrimp and sprinkle with groundblack pepper.
- Toss until every shrimp is well seasoned.
Heat up some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. - Add the shrimp and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn bright pink and opaque—about 5 minutes.
- Toss in the seasoned spinach and stir for about a minute, just until it wilts. Serve immediately!
Nutrition Information
Yield
2Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 135Total Fat 8gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 106mgSodium 493mgCarbohydrates 4gFiber 1gSugar 0gProtein 13g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp with spinach is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests, this recipe is as nutritious as it is delicious. Try it out, experiment with different variations, and make it your own. Bon appétit!
