Indulge in Flavor: Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach
Welcome to a culinary adventure that brings together the richness of cheese, the succulence of shrimp, and the freshness of spinach in one irresistible dish: Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress your guests, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Join us as we explore the art of creating this delectable pasta dish and discover how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary.
Ingredients
Let’s gather all the ingredients needed to bring this dish to life:
- 1 box Penne Pasta
- 1 lb Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 3 cups Fresh Chopped Spinach, Kale, or Arugula (do not use frozen)
- 1 cup Mozzarella or Swiss Cheese
- 3 Garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 teaspoons Salt, Pepper & Garlic Salt
- 8 cups Water
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 1 tablespoon Oil
Instructions
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for crafting this mouthwatering Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach:
- Prepare the Pasta: In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and oil together. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and garlic salt. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- Prepare the Spinach: In the same skillet, add the chopped spinach, kale, or arugula. Cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted and tender. Remove the greens from the skillet and set them aside.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked pasta to the pot and add the cooked shrimp, wilted greens, and shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients and allow the cheese to melt slightly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the cheese has melted and the ingredients are well combined, transfer the Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations
Here are some helpful tips and variations to enhance your experience with Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach:
- Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables to this dish for added flavor and nutrition. Sliced mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or roasted red peppers would all be delicious additions.
- Spice It Up: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet when cooking the shrimp and garlic. This adds depth of flavor and a touch of heat to the dish.
- Creamy Sauce: If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half when combining the ingredients in the pot. This adds richness and creaminess to the dish without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish the finished dish with freshly chopped herbs such as parsley, basil, or chives for a pop of color and freshness. These herbs add brightness to the dish and elevate the overall flavor profile.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how to adapt this Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach recipe to fit your dietary preferences:
- Replace Pasta: Substitute the penne pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles for a low-carb alternative. These options provide the same texture as traditional pasta without the extra carbs.
- Cheese Options: Opt for high-fat, low-carb cheeses such as cheddar, Gouda, or Parmesan instead of mozzarella or Swiss cheese. These cheeses add richness and flavor to the dish without adding extra carbs.
- Butter and Oil: Increase the amount of butter and oil used in the recipe to boost the fat content and keep the dish keto-friendly. Butter adds richness and flavor, while oil helps prevent sticking and adds moisture to the dish.
- Leafy Greens: Choose nutrient-rich leafy greens such as spinach, kale, or arugula for added vitamins and minerals without the extra carbs. These greens add texture and color to the dish while keeping it low in carbs.
In conclusion, Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach is a delightful dish that combines the richness of cheese, the succulence of shrimp, and the freshness of greens in one harmonious blend of flavors. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this recipe is sure to impress. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and versatile options for customization, Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach is a winner every time. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of this irresistible pasta dish. Your taste buds will thank you!
