Sautéed Garlic Shrimp and Spinach Spaghetti
Indulge in a delectable and wholesome dish that perfectly balances flavor and nutrition. This Sautéed Garlic Shrimp and Spinach Spaghetti is a delightful one-pan meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend. With succulent jumbo shrimp complemented by the robust aroma of garlic and nestled on a bed of tender spinach, this dish is enriched with the comforting goodness of thin spaghetti. Each bite brims with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience. Perfect for casual gatherings or cozy dinners at home, this recipe invites endless customization—add your favorite vegetables or toss in some baby scallops for an extra touch of elegance!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
thin spaghetti
1/2 lb (uncooked)
cooked de-veined jumbo shrimp
20-24 (thawed and patted dry)
garlic cloves
8-9 (sliced or chopped)
spinach
1 (8 ounce) bag (washed and trimmed)
large onion
1 (finely chopped)
margarine or butter
1/2 cup (melted)
extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup (none)
salt
to taste (none)
fresh ground pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Thaw the shrimp if using frozen, then pat dry and set aside to reach room temperature.
2
In a large pot, bring water to a boil for the thin spaghetti.
3
While the water is heating, prepare the garlic by slicing it lengthwise into slivers. You can leave the pieces large or chop them finely based on your preference.
4
Finely chop the onion and set it aside.
5
In a large skillet, combine the margarine or butter with the extra virgin olive oil, and warm over medium heat.
6
Once the butter is melted and the oil is heated, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, around 3-5 minutes.
7
Add the sliced garlic to the pan and sauté for an additional minute. Keep a close eye to avoid burning the garlic, which can produce a bitter flavor.
8
When the water is boiling, add the thin spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
9
Once the garlic and onion mix is aromatic, add the shrimp along with fresh ground pepper and salt to taste. Sauté until the shrimp starts to curl, approximately 2-3 minutes.
10
Add the spinach to the skillet and stir until it wilts, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
11
By now, the spaghetti should be cooked. Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with shrimp and spinach.
12
Toss everything together gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the oil and flavors from the shrimp and vegetables.
13
Serve immediately, garnishing with additional pepper or even chopped bell peppers for a pop of color, if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sautéed Garlic Shrimp and Spinach Spaghetti?
It is a wholesome and flavorful one-pan meal that combines jumbo shrimp, fresh garlic, spinach, and thin spaghetti in under 30 minutes.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
This dish can be prepared in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
What type of pasta should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/2 lb of thin spaghetti, cooked until al dente.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Ensure they are thawed, patted dry, and at room temperature before cooking.
How many shrimp are needed?
You will need 20 to 24 cooked de-veined jumbo shrimp.
How should the garlic be prepared?
The 8 to 9 garlic cloves should be sliced lengthwise into slivers or finely chopped based on your preference.
What kind of onion is used?
The recipe uses one large onion that is finely chopped.
Can I use butter or margarine?
The recipe allows for 1/2 cup of either margarine or butter depending on your preference.
What type of oil is recommended?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil combined with the butter or margarine.
How do I prevent the garlic from tasting bitter?
Sauté the garlic for only about one minute and watch it closely to avoid burning, which causes bitterness.
How long should I sauté the onion?
The onion should be sautéed for 3-5 minutes until it becomes translucent.
When do I add the shrimp to the pan?
Add the shrimp once the garlic and onion mixture has become aromatic.
How long do the shrimp need to cook in the skillet?
Sauté the shrimp for approximately 2-3 minutes until they start to curl.
What seasoning is used for the shrimp?
The shrimp are seasoned with salt and fresh ground pepper to taste.
When should I add the spinach?
Add the spinach to the skillet after the shrimp have started to curl.
How long does the spinach take to cook?
The spinach should be stirred until it wilts, which takes about 1-2 minutes.
How do I combine the pasta with the sauce?
Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it directly to the skillet with the shrimp and spinach, then toss gently to coat.
Can I customize this recipe with other vegetables?
Yes, the recipe invites customization; you can add your favorite vegetables for extra flavor.
What other seafood can be added?
You can toss in baby scallops for an extra touch of elegance.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is described as a wholesome dish that balances flavor and nutrition with fresh ingredients like spinach and shrimp.
What should I use as a garnish?
You can garnish with additional pepper or chopped bell peppers for a pop of color.
How much spinach is required?
The recipe uses one 8-ounce bag of washed and trimmed spinach.
What is the serving suggestion for this dish?
It should be served immediately while warm for the best flavor experience.
Is this a one-pan meal?
While the pasta is boiled in a pot, the main components are sautéed and combined in a single large skillet.
Do I need to peel the shrimp?
The recipe specifies using de-veined jumbo shrimp, and they should be patted dry before use.
What heat level should I use for the skillet?
The butter and oil should be warmed over medium heat.
What size should the shrimp be?
The recipe specifically calls for jumbo-sized shrimp.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
You should use 8 to 9 garlic cloves.
What is the texture of the spaghetti supposed to be?
The spaghetti should be cooked until it is al dente.
Is this recipe suitable for gatherings?
Yes, it is perfect for casual gatherings or cozy dinners at home.