Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple yet elegant dish of sautéed shrimp with spinach and tomatoes. A perfect blend of fresh seafood, nutritious greens, and juicy tomatoes make this meal not only delicious but also healthy. The hint of smoke from the paprika adds a unique depth to the dish, making it an unforgettable culinary experience.
This recipe uses ingredients that are usually easily found in most supermarkets. However, the smoked paprika might not be available in every store. This ingredient gives the dish a unique smoky flavor that enhances the taste of the shrimp. If you cannot find it in your usual grocery store, try looking for it in a store that sells spices or online.
Sautéed Shrimp with Spinach and Tomatoes Ingredients
Extra-virgin olive oil: This type of oil is unrefined, meaning it has more natural flavors that complement the taste of the shrimp.
Cherry tomatoes: These small tomatoes add a burst of sweetness to the dish.
Garlic clove: Garlic adds a rich, savory flavor that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Smoked paprika: This gives the dish a unique smoky flavor that enhances the taste of the shrimp.
Large shrimp: The star of the dish. Shrimp has a sweet, delicate flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Spinach: Spinach adds a fresh, slightly bitter taste and a variety of nutrients.
Coarse salt and ground pepper: These seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the other ingredients.
Lemon juice: Lemon juice adds a refreshing, tangy flavor that brightens the dish.
One reader, Garek Weir says:
This sautéed shrimp with spinach and tomatoes recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the dish is so easy to make. The juicy shrimp, vibrant spinach, and burst of cherry tomatoes create a delightful harmony. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a healthy and delicious meal.
Techniques Required for Sautéed Shrimp with Spinach and Tomatoes
Sautéing the shrimp and vegetables: This technique involves cooking the shrimp, tomatoes, and spinach in a skillet with oil, garlic, and seasonings until they are cooked through and flavorful.
Blistering the tomatoes: This involves cooking the tomatoes in a hot skillet with oil until their skins start to blister, which adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
Wilting the spinach: This technique involves cooking the spinach in the skillet with the other ingredients until it becomes tender and slightly reduced in volume.
Seasoning with salt and pepper: This step involves adding salt and pepper to taste to enhance the flavors of the dish.
Adding lemon juice: This technique involves adding a splash of lemon juice at the end of cooking to brighten the flavors of the dish.
How To Make Sautéed Shrimp with Spinach & Tomatoes
Grab a bite of this sautéed shrimp paired tastefully with cherry tomatoes and spinach! It’s a filling and flavorful meal that’s ready in less than an hour.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1.5tbspextra-virgin olive oil
- 2cupscherry tomatoes,or grape tomatoes
- 1garlic clove,minced
- 1tspsmoked paprika
- 1lblarge shrimp,raw, peeled, deveined
- 4cupsspinach,or baby arugula
- coarse salt and ground pepper
- 1tbsplemon juice,fresh
Instructions
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In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high. Add the tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes, stirring often, until they blister.
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Add the garlic and smoked paprika, then cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp, then cook for 4 minutes, stirring often, until almost opaque throughout.
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Add the spinach, season with salt and pepper, then toss for 1 minute or until wilted. Then, add the lemon juice and toss to combine.
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Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 204.41kcal
- Fat: 8.81g
- Saturated Fat: 1.42g
- Trans Fat: 0.03g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.26g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.39g
- Carbohydrates: 9.08g
- Fiber: 2.83g
- Sugar: 3.46g
- Protein: 23.04g
- Cholesterol: 190.51mg
- Sodium: 894.28mg
- Calcium: 141.12mg
- Potassium: 710.16mg
- Iron: 2.03mg
- Vitamin A: 337.39µg
- Vitamin C: 29.51mg
Helpful Technique for Perfecting Sautéed Shrimp
When sautéing shrimp, it's important not to overcook them as they can become tough and lose their sweet flavor. Shrimp cook very quickly, usually in 2-4 minutes. They're done as soon as they turn pink and opaque. If you're unsure, cut into one; it should be just barely opaque all the way through.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Shrimp Dish
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pan wonder: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pan to minimize cleanup time.
Efficient tools: Use kitchen tools like a food processor or mandoline to speed up prep work and save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Sautéed Shrimp with Spinach & Tomatoes Recipe
extra-virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for sautéing the shrimp and vegetables.
cherry tomatoes - Substitute with sliced roma tomatoes: Roma tomatoes are meatier and have fewer seeds, making them a good substitute for cherry tomatoes in this recipe.
garlic clove - Substitute with 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor without the need for mincing or chopping.
smoked paprika - Substitute with regular paprika: Regular paprika can be used as a substitute for smoked paprika, although it will not have the same smoky flavor.
large shrimp - Substitute with large prawns: Large prawns can be used as a substitute for large shrimp, providing a similar taste and texture in the dish.
spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a substitute for spinach, offering a hearty and nutritious green component to the dish.
coarse salt and ground pepper - Substitute with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper can be used as a substitute for coarse salt and ground pepper, providing a similar seasoning effect.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice can be used as a substitute for lemon juice, providing a slightly different citrus flavor to the dish.
Presentation Tips for Sautéed Shrimp with Spinach and Tomatoes
Elevate the plating: As a culinary genius, I would carefully arrange the sautéed shrimp with spinach and tomatoes on the plate, ensuring that each element is showcased beautifully. The vibrant colors of the tomatoes and spinach will be strategically placed to create an eye-catching presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or chives will add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor to the dish. The green hues will complement the red of the tomatoes and the pink of the shrimp, creating a visually appealing plate.
Incorporate edible flowers: Delicate edible flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies can be used to add a touch of elegance to the dish. These edible blooms will bring a subtle floral note and a touch of sophistication to the overall presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embracing the concept of negative space on the plate will allow the vibrant colors and textures of the dish to stand out. By carefully considering the placement of each element, the dish will exude a sense of balance and refinement.
Add a drizzle of balsamic reduction: A carefully executed drizzle of balsamic reduction around the plate will not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a hint of sweetness and acidity, elevating the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Consider the plate shape and size: Choosing the right plate is crucial. Opting for a minimalist, white plate with a wide rim will provide a clean canvas for the dish, allowing the colors and textures to take center stage. The size of the plate will also be considered to ensure the dish is presented with elegance and sophistication.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Shrimp Recipe
- Large skillet: A wide, flat-bottomed pan used for sautéing, frying, and searing ingredients.
- Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting items, such as shrimp, while cooking.
- Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and deveining the shrimp, as well as prepping the garlic and tomatoes.
- Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients, such as the cherry tomatoes and garlic.
- Lemon squeezer: A tool used to extract juice from the lemon, adding a burst of citrus flavor to the dish.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Sautéed Shrimp
- To store leftover sautéed shrimp with spinach and tomatoes, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- When reheating, ensure that the shrimp is heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to maintain food safety.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the cooled sautéed shrimp with spinach and tomatoes. Transfer the dish to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Frozen sautéed shrimp with spinach and tomatoes can be stored for up to 2 months.
- To reheat from frozen, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until the shrimp is heated through and the spinach and tomatoes are warmed, stirring occasionally.
- Note: The texture of the shrimp and vegetables may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the dish will still be flavorful and enjoyable.
How To Reheat Leftover Sautéed Shrimp
Reheat the sautéed shrimp in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method helps to preserve the texture of the shrimp and prevent them from becoming rubbery. Add a splash of water or olive oil if needed to prevent sticking.
For a quick and easy reheating method, place the leftover sautéed shrimp with spinach and tomatoes in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
If you prefer a crispy texture, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the leftover sautéed shrimp with spinach and tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy around the edges.
For a flavorful twist, reheat the sautéed shrimp in a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of white wine or chicken broth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced and the shrimp are heated through. This method adds depth to the flavors of the dish.
To maintain the vibrant colors of the spinach and tomatoes, reheat the dish gently over low heat in a covered skillet. Stir occasionally and add a small amount of water if needed to prevent the vegetables from drying out. Heat until the shrimp are warmed through and the spinach is wilted.
Interesting Fact About Sautéed Shrimp with Spinach and Tomatoes
Sautéed shrimp with spinach and tomatoes is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, while spinach provides a healthy dose of iron and other essential nutrients. Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system. This dish is not only flavorful but also a great way to incorporate a variety of nutrients into your diet.
Is Making This Shrimp Dish at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this sautéed shrimp with spinach and tomatoes recipe is quite favorable. The ingredients, such as shrimp, spinach, and tomatoes, are generally affordable and widely available. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a worthy addition to any household menu. Rating: 9/10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25, making it a reasonable and budget-friendly option for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Is This Shrimp Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This sautéed shrimp with spinach and tomatoes recipe is a healthy and nutritious dish that packs a flavorful punch. The recipe incorporates several nutrient-dense ingredients, such as:
- Shrimp: A lean protein source rich in selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Spinach: A superfood loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium
- Tomatoes: An excellent source of lycopene, vitamin C, and potassium
- Olive oil: A healthy fat that provides anti-inflammatory benefits and supports heart health
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties
The smoked paprika adds depth to the dish without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy additives. Additionally, the recipe uses minimal processing and focuses on whole, fresh ingredients, which is a hallmark of a healthy meal.
To further enhance the nutritional value of this already healthy dish, consider the following suggestions:
- Serve the sautéed shrimp and vegetables over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and complex carbohydrates
- Increase the variety of vegetables by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the mix
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra burst of flavor and nutrients
- Use a low-sodium vegetable broth instead of salt to season the dish, reducing overall sodium content
- Squeeze extra lemon juice over the finished dish for a bright, citrusy note that complements the shrimp and vegetables
Editor's Opinion on This Sautéed Shrimp Recipe
This sautéed shrimp with spinach and tomatoes recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The juicy cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, while the smoked paprika and garlic infuse the dish with a rich, smoky aroma. The succulent shrimp are perfectly cooked and pair beautifully with the tender spinach. The addition of lemon juice provides a refreshing zing, balancing the dish perfectly. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful showcase of fresh, vibrant ingredients and is sure to impress with its simplicity and depth of flavor.
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Why trust this Sautéed Shrimp with Spinach & Tomatoes Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful meal with succulent shrimp, vibrant spinach, and juicy tomatoes. The use of smoked paprika adds depth of flavor, while the garlic infuses a rich aroma. The addition of lemon juice provides a refreshing zing, elevating the dish. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the simple yet effective cooking process to create a dish that's both delicious and nutritious.
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