Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Spinach: A Quick, Healthy Delight

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal that’s packed with nutrients, Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Spinach is the answer. This dish combines tender shrimp with rich garlic butter and fresh spinach for a meal that feels both indulgent and healthy. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests and want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Shrimp is a great source of lean protein, and spinach provides a hefty dose of vitamins and minerals, making this meal not only delicious but also well-balanced. Whether you’re serving it as a light dinner or pairing it with pasta or rice for something more substantial, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this simple yet delicious meal:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
1 lemon, juiced
10 oz fresh spinach

1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

Cherry tomatoes or zucchini for extra vegetables
Spaghetti or linguine if you want to turn this into a pasta dish

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp

Start by preparing the shrimp.

Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This helps ensure that they sear properly when cooked.
Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.

Tip: Using large shrimp will give you a meatier texture and prevent them from overcooking quickly. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure they’re thawed and dry before cooking.

Step 2: Cooking the Shrimp

Now it’s time to cook the shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter.
Once the butter melts and becomes foamy, add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the shrimp and toss gently to coat.
Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Tip: The garlic should cook just long enough to become fragrant. Avoid letting it brown as it can turn bitter quickly.

Step 3: Sautéing the Spinach

Using the same skillet, it’s time to cook the spinach.

Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet.
Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, add the fresh spinach to the skillet. You may need to add it in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
Stir the spinach constantly for 2-3 minutes, or until it wilts down completely.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tip: If you want more variety, you can add other quick-cooking vegetables like cherry tomatoes or zucchini along with the spinach for extra color and nutrients.

Step 4: Combining the Shrimp and Spinach

Now that the spinach is ready, it’s time to bring the dish together.

Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together.
Allow the shrimp to reheat for a minute or two and absorb the flavors of the garlic butter sauce.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice.

Step 5: Garnishing and Serving

To finish, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve the shrimp and spinach on their own for a light main course, or pair them with sides like crusty bread or a bed of rice to soak up the flavorful garlic butter sauce.

Tip: For a heartier option, toss the shrimp and spinach with some cooked spaghetti or linguine to turn this into a garlic butter shrimp pasta.

Cooking Notes

Shrimp Tips: If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed before cooking. Patting the shrimp dry helps them get a nice sear.
Garlic Flavor: For a stronger garlic flavor, you can add an extra clove or two. Just be cautious not to burn the garlic, as this can make it bitter.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a little heat, but you can adjust the amount based on your spice preference. Leave them out if you prefer a milder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides:

Rice or Bread: Serve with steamed jasmine rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
Pasta Option: Toss the shrimp and spinach with cooked pasta like spaghetti or linguine to make a heartier meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes for a more balanced meal.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the rich butter sauce and bright lemon flavors.

Tips for Success

Butter Substitutes: For a lighter version, you can replace half of the butter with olive oil. This will still maintain the dish’s rich flavor while cutting down on the fat content.
Spinach Variations: If fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen spinach can be used as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw it first and squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by running them under cold water for a few minutes. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture for better searing.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, use low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

3. What other greens can I use instead of spinach?

If you prefer, you can substitute spinach with other leafy greens such as kale or Swiss chard. Just keep in mind that these greens may take a little longer to cook.

4. How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative such as olive oil or a vegan butter substitute. The dish will still be flavorful and rich!

5. What can I do with the leftovers?

Leftovers are versatile and can be used in a variety of ways:

Add them to a pasta dish.
Serve them as a topping for a salad.
Enjoy them as they are for a quick and satisfying meal the next day.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Spinach is a simple yet elegant meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes. The tender shrimp, paired with rich garlic butter and vibrant spinach, creates a dish that’s both light and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to deliver. Serve it with pasta, rice, or bread, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for that final touch. Enjoy this easy, restaurant-quality meal right in the comfort of your home!