A Flavor-Packed, Weeknight-Friendly Seafood Dish
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp with Spinach Pasta is a delicious, restaurant-quality meal you can make at home in under 30 minutes. Juicy shrimp, tender spinach pasta, and a rich, garlicky cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes create a dish that’s elegant, flavorful, and satisfying.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this recipe is popular across the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada, thanks to its combination of seafood, veggies, and creamy pasta comfort.
Why This Dish Stands Out
Rich and Creamy Flavor
The garlic-infused cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes adds depth and tang, complementing the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
Balanced & Nutritious
Spinach pasta adds fiber and nutrients, while shrimp provides lean protein. Sun-dried tomatoes contribute vitamins and antioxidants.
Quick and Easy
From start to finish, this dish takes about 25–30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pasta
8 oz (225 g) spinach pasta or linguine
Salted water for boiling
For the Shrimp
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (in oil)
1 cup heavy cream (or double cream in the UK)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
Fresh basil or parsley
Extra Parmesan cheese
How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp with Spinach Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil the spinach pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Pour in cream, reduce heat, and simmer 2–3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan until smooth. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Return shrimp to the skillet. Toss in cooked pasta and mix until evenly coated. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick.
Step 5: Serve
Plate the pasta, sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley, and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Flavor Variations to Try
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or more red pepper flakes for heat.
Cheesy Delight
Mix in mozzarella or provolone for extra cheesy creaminess.
Veggie Boost
Include zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrients.
Lemon Zest Twist
Add a sprinkle of lemon zest or a dash of lemon juice for brightness.
Practical Tips for the Best Dish
Don’t overcook shrimp—they turn rubbery quickly
Use pasta water to adjust sauce consistency
Choose sun-dried tomatoes in oil for more flavor
Season gradually—cheese adds saltiness
Serve immediately for best texture
What to Serve with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta
Garlic bread or a crusty baguette
Simple green salad with vinaigrette
Steamed or roasted vegetables
Crisp white wine or sparkling water
Why This Dish Works Across the US, UK, and Canada
The ingredients are widely available, and the creamy, garlicky, tangy flavors are universally loved. This dish is perfect for home cooks seeking a quick, elegant meal that pleases seafood lovers and pasta fans alike.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking shrimp
Letting cream sauce boil (reduces creaminess)
Skipping pasta water adjustment
Using dry sun-dried tomatoes without rehydrating
Conclusion
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp with Spinach Pasta is a perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors with tender shrimp and nutrient-packed pasta. Quick, easy, and visually appealing, it’s a go-to recipe for weeknights, dinner parties, or whenever you want a comforting seafood pasta dish. 🍤🌿🧀