When you want a weeknight dinner that dazzles without a fuss, the One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Spinach Recipe is your go-to. This vibrant dish combines tender shrimp and fresh spinach in a luscious garlicky sauce brightened with lemon and a hint of heat from crushed red pepper. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures that comes together in just 25 minutes, guaranteed to fill your kitchen with inviting aromas and impress even the busiest of eaters.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity, relying on fresh, quality ingredients that each play a vital role in flavor, texture, and color. Your pantry and fridge probably already have what you need, making this meal both accessible and delicious.
- Extra-virgin olive oil (3 tablespoons): Provides a smooth, fruity base and helps marry all the flavors together.
- Garlic (6 medium cloves, sliced): The star aromatic that delivers the bold garlicky punch everyone craves.
- Spinach (1 pound): Adds vibrant green color and a tender, slightly earthy taste that balances the shrimp.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon plus ⅛ teaspoon, divided): Enhances every ingredient and elevates each flavor to perfection.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brings a bright acidity that freshens up the dish beautifully.
- Shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined, 21-30 count): Offers sweet, succulent protein with a delightful bite.
- Crushed red pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds just the right touch of heat for complexity without overpowering.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, finely chopped): Gives a fresh herbal note and a pop of green to finish.
- Lemon zest (1½ teaspoons): Intensifies the citrus flavor with fragrant oils for a gourmet touch.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Wilt the Spinach with Garlic
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in half the garlic and sauté just until it starts to brown gently, releasing its heavenly aroma—this only takes 1 to 2 minutes, so watch closely! Next, add the fresh spinach and ¼ teaspoon of salt, tossing well to coat every leaf. Cook until the spinach is mostly wilted, stirring once or twice along the way, about 3 to 5 minutes. Once ready, remove the pot from heat, stir in the lemon juice to brighten the greens, and transfer the spinach to a bowl to keep warm. This layer of garlicky, lemon-kissed spinach is going to be the perfect bed for your shrimp.
Step 2: Cook the Garlicky Shrimp
Increase the heat to medium-high and pour the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the same pot. Add the rest of the garlic and sauté again until it lightly browns and fills your kitchen with irresistible scent. Add the shrimp, crushed red pepper, and the remaining ⅛ teaspoon of salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until the shrimp turn opaque and curl slightly—this takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Shrimp cook fast, and this step ensures they stay tender and juicy, perfectly seasoned with a little kick of heat.
Step 3: Assemble and Finish
Serve the garlicky shrimp right over the warm lemon-spinach. Finish the dish by sprinkling fresh parsley and a generous dusting of lemon zest. These final touches add freshness and vibrant color that make your One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Spinach Recipe look as amazing as it tastes.
How to Serve One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh parsley and lemon zest elevate this dish beautifully. For an extra burst of brightness, add a few lemon wedges on the side. You could also toss some toasted pine nuts or add a pinch of flaky sea salt for texture and flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
Although this One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Spinach Recipe shines solo, it’s fantastic over pasta, quinoa, or brown rice for a heartier meal. Crusty bread is also perfect for soaking up the leftover garlicky goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking your spinach and shrimp in layers inside a shallow bowl to showcase the colors beautifully, or spoon everything over creamy polenta for a comforting twist. Making individual portions in small cast-iron skillets can also turn this humble dinner into an Instagram-worthy presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. Your One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Spinach Recipe will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
While shrimp and spinach can be frozen, texture might change after thawing, so freezing isn’t ideal here. If you must, freeze in a sealed container for up to one month and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is on the stove over medium-low heat to keep shrimp tender and spinach vibrant. Stir occasionally and avoid overheating, or use short bursts in the microwave, stirring in between to warm evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Which is a better buy, wild-caught shrimp or farm-raised?
Choosing between wild-caught and farm-raised shrimp often comes down to personal preference. Wild-caught shrimp tend to be more expensive, but they offer a sweeter flavor and better texture because they feed on a natural ocean diet. In contrast, farm-raised shrimp are typically fed fishmeal and may contain antibiotics or pesticides depending on their source.
How can I tell when the shrimp are done cooking?
Cooked shrimp turn opaque with a pink-orange hue and curl into a gentle C shape. If they curl into a tight O, they are likely overcooked. They should feel firm but tender when pressed lightly.
How should I serve One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Spinach?
This dish is perfect on its own or served atop your favorite grains like orzo, spaghetti, or rice. A side of crusty bread is also great for mopping up the garlicky juices. Feel free to add a sprinkle of Parmesan or fresh herbs like basil for extra flavor.
Can I adjust the heat level in the recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper. For a fiery kick, add more or sprinkle some chili flakes on top before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
Yes! The One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Spinach Recipe is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb, and fits well within many heart-healthy and anti-inflammatory eating plans.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a vibrant, quick, and nourishing meal that feels just a little fancy yet comes together effortlessly, the One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Spinach Recipe is ready to become a staple. It’s a delicious celebration of simple ingredients that work together to create something truly special. Get your pots ready—you’re just minutes away from a dinner that’s sure to brighten any evening.
PrintOne-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Spinach Recipe
This One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Spinach recipe offers a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner that combines tender shrimp with fresh spinach in a vibrant lemony garlic sauce. The dish is brightened with crushed red pepper and fresh parsley, delivering a healthy, low-carb meal packed with protein and Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings (about 4 cups)
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Diabetic
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 6 medium cloves garlic, sliced, divided
- 1 pound spinach
- ¼ teaspoon salt plus ⅛ teaspoon, divided
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 pound shrimp (21–30 count), peeled and deveined
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1½ teaspoons lemon zest
Instructions
- Cook garlic and wilt spinach: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add half of the sliced garlic and cook until it just begins to brown, about 1 to 2 minutes. Add the spinach and ¼ teaspoon salt, tossing to coat everything evenly. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is mostly wilted, around 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in the lemon juice, transfer to a bowl, and keep warm.
- Cook shrimp with remaining ingredients: Increase heat to medium-high and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same pot. Add the remaining garlic and cook until it begins to brown, about 1 to 2 minutes. Add the shrimp, crushed red pepper, and remaining ⅛ teaspoon salt. Cook while stirring until the shrimp are just cooked through, 3 to 5 minutes, until they turn opaque and pink-orange.
- Serve: Plate the shrimp over the warm spinach. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and lemon zest for a fresh, bright finish. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use wild-caught shrimp if possible for better flavor and texture, but farm-raised shrimp will also work well.
- Shrimp is done when it turns opaque, pink-orange, and curls slightly but not into a tight ‘O’ shape.
- This dish pairs beautifully with spaghetti, orzo, brown rice, or crusty bread to soak up extra sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
- Optional toppings include Parmesan cheese, fresh basil or chives, and additional lemon juice or zest.
