Shrimp Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Spinach

Ingredients

• Shrimp, cooked 6 oz
• Whole wheat pasta, cooked 1.25 cups
• Tomato sauce 1/2 cup
• Baby spinach 1 cup
• Olive oil 1 tbsp
• Garlic 2 cloves
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes a pinch

Method

1. Prepare Ingredients. Gather all your ingredients. If your shrimp is frozen, make sure it is fully thawed. Mince the garlic cloves finely. Rinse the baby spinach under cold water and drain well.
   Tip: Use paper towels to pat the spinach dry to avoid excess water in the sauce.
2. Heat Olive Oil and Sauté Garlic. Place a medium skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot (you can test by adding a small piece of garlic - it should sizzle gently), add the minced garlic. Stir frequently and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
   Tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will become bitter.
3. Add Tomato Sauce and Season. Pour the 1/2 cup of tomato sauce into the skillet with the garlic. Stir to combine. Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer gently on low heat while you prepare the rest.
   Tip: Simmering helps to deepen the flavor of the sauce.
4. Add Baby Spinach. Add the fresh baby spinach to the tomato sauce. Stir gently. The spinach will wilt quickly, about 1-2 minutes. Keep stirring to ensure even cooking.
   Tip: If the sauce looks too thick, add a tablespoon of water or pasta cooking water to loosen it.
5. Add Cooked Shrimp. Add the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Stir to combine with the sauce and spinach. Cook for about 2 minutes until shrimp is warmed through.
   Tip: Since shrimp is already cooked, avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
6. Combine with Pasta. Add the cooked whole wheat pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together gently so the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
   Tip: If the pasta seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water or olive oil.
7. Serve. Divide the shrimp pasta between two plates. Optionally, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh herbs like parsley.
   Tip: Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Pro tips

• Reserve a little pasta cooking water before draining to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
• Use fresh shrimp for the best taste, but cooked shrimp works well for convenience.