Why This Recipe Works So Well
Garlic Shrimp & Spinach is the perfect recipe when you need a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal. The combination of juicy, garlicky shrimp and tender spinach creates a simple yet satisfying dish packed with protein and nutrients.
Cooking the shrimp in olive oil and butter adds richness, while the fresh lemon juice brightens everything up. Red pepper flakes give it a slight kick, but you can easily adjust the spice level to your liking.
This dish is also highly versatile. You can enjoy it as a light meal on its own, serve it over rice or pasta for something heartier, or pair it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious garlic-infused juices.
Whether you need a quick dinner after a long day or a fancy yet effortless dish for guests, this recipe delivers on both taste and convenience.
15-Minute Garlic Shrimp & Spinach Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan – For cooking the shrimp and spinach.
- Cutting board & knife – To mince garlic and chop parsley.
- Measuring spoons – For accurate seasoning.
- Tongs or spatula – To flip shrimp and toss spinach.
- Lemon juicer (optional) – To extract juice easily.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Juice of ½ lemon about 1 tablespoon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest optional, for extra brightness
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mince the garlic, chop the parsley, and wash the spinach.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant, then add spinach. Season with red pepper flakes (if using) and a pinch of salt, tossing for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet, squeeze in lemon juice, and toss everything together. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon zest, then serve immediately.
Garlic Shrimp & Spinach is a quick, healthy, and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish that comes together in just 15 minutes.
Juicy shrimp are sautéed in olive oil, butter, and garlic, then tossed with fresh spinach and finished with a squeeze of lemon juice. It’s a versatile dish that can be served on its own, over rice, or with pasta for a heartier meal.
With only 250-300 calories per serving, it’s a low-carb, protein-packed option perfect for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner.
