**Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta Recipe**
** Servings: 4-6**
**Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes**
** Ingredients:**
* 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
* 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 2 cups (200g) fresh spinach leaves
* 1 can (28 oz/794g) crushed tomatoes
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup (60g) olive oil
* 1 tsp (5g) dried basil
* 1 tsp (5g) dried oregano
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
* Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
**Other versions and variations:**
* **Spicy Version:** Add 1/4-1/2 tsp (1-2g) red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
* **Vegetarian Version:** Replace the shrimp with roasted vegetables (e.g., zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant) or add roasted tofu for extra protein.
* **Mediterranean Version:** Add 1/4 cup (60g) chopped Kalamata olives, 1/4 cup (30g) crumbled feta cheese, and 2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh parsley.
* **White Wine Version:** Add 2 tbsp (30g) white wine to the sauce during the cooking process.
**Cooking Steps:**
1. **Cook the pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup (240ml) of pasta water before draining.
2. **Prepare the garlic and spinach:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. **Add the spinach:** Add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
4. **Prepare the shrimp:** Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
5. **Sear the shrimp:** In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
6. **Create the tomato sauce:** Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano to the skillet. Stir to combine. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. **Combine the shrimp and tomato sauce:** Add the cooked shrimp to the tomato sauce and stir to combine.
8. **Add the spinach and pasta:** Add the cooked pasta, wilted spinach, and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
9. **Season and serve:** Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley or basil if desired.
**Tips on Correct Cooking Techniques:**
* **Don't overcook the shrimp:** Cook the shrimp until they're pink and just cooked through. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery.
* **Use high-quality tomatoes:** Fresh, flavorful tomatoes will elevate the flavor of the dish. Consider using San Marzano tomatoes or other high-quality canned tomatoes.
* **Don't overcook the pasta:** Cook the pasta until it's al dente, which means it still has some bite or chew. Overcooking can make the pasta mushy and unappetizing.
* **Use fresh spinach:** Fresh spinach is essential for this recipe. Frozen or wilted spinach can result in a less flavorful dish.
* **Add ingredients at the right time:** Add the spinach and shrimp at the right time to ensure they cook evenly and don't become overcooked or mushy.
By following these steps and tips, you'll create a delicious and flavorful Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta that's sure to become a family favorite!
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