Ingredients

• For the Shrimp and Spinach:
  • 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil (divided)
  • 1 tsp ancho or cayenne pepper
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ cup white wine
  • ½ cup vegetable stock
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp red chili pepper flakes (optional)
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
• Optional Garnish:
  • Red chili pepper flakes
  • Grated parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Marinate the Shrimp:
   • Toss shrimp with 1 tbsp olive oil, ancho or cayenne pepper, minced garlic, and black pepper. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
   • Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place shrimp in a single layer and sear for 1 minute per side.
3. Deglaze the Pan:
   • Add white wine and vegetable stock to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, scraping the browned bits with a wooden spoon.
4. Add Butter and Seasoning:
   • Stir in butter until melted. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and red chili pepper flakes for an added kick.
5. Add Spinach:
   • Toss in fresh spinach and cook for about 30 seconds, or until wilted.
6. Serve:
   • Serve shrimp and spinach over pasta, rice, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice. Optionally, garnish with red chili flakes or parmesan cheese.

Nutrients

• Serving Size: 1 portion (out of 4 servings)
• Calories: ~310 kcal
• Nutritional Breakdown:
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 1g

Garlic Butter Spinach Shrimp is an easy yet indulgent recipe that’s perfect for busy evenings or entertaining guests. With its rich garlic butter flavor and tender spinach, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!

The Perfect Balance of Flavor and Nutrition

Garlic Butter Spinach Shrimp hits all the right notes, combining savory, spicy, and buttery flavors with nutrient-dense ingredients. Here’s what makes this dish so special:

1. Juicy Shrimp: Shrimp are not only quick to cook but also packed with lean protein, making them an excellent choice for a light yet filling meal.
2. Garlic Butter Sauce: The star of the dish, the garlic butter sauce, adds richness and depth, coating the shrimp and spinach with luxurious flavor.
3. Fresh Spinach: Wilted spinach brings a burst of color and nutrients to the dish, complementing the shrimp with its earthy, slightly sweet taste.
4. Spices and Herbs: Italian seasoning, chili flakes, and a hint of cayenne pepper enhance the dish, creating a complex and aromatic flavor profile.

This combination ensures every bite is delicious, balanced, and satisfying.

A Recipe for Every Occasion

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, Garlic Butter Spinach Shrimp is a recipe that fits every occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite for so many:

1. Quick Weeknight Dinner: With a total cook time of under 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy evenings when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. Elegant Entertaining: Its vibrant presentation and rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress dinner guests.
3. Meal Prep-Friendly: Garlic Butter Spinach Shrimp can be prepared in advance and stored for quick reheating, making it a practical choice for meal prepping.
4. Dietary Flexibility: This recipe caters to various dietary needs, from low-carb and keto to paleo and gluten-free.

Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a staple dish for home cooks of all skill levels.

Health Benefits of Garlic Butter Spinach Shrimp

This dish is not just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a smart choice for a wholesome meal. Here’s a closer look at its nutritional benefits:

1. High in Protein: Shrimp are a lean source of high-quality protein, supporting muscle growth, repair, and overall health.
2. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Spinach provides a healthy dose of vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and calcium, while shrimp contribute selenium, zinc, and iodine.
3. Low in Carbs: With only 6 grams of carbs per serving, this dish is keto-friendly and suitable for low-carb diets.
4. Healthy Fats: Olive oil and butter provide heart-healthy fats that add flavor and keep you feeling full.
5. Antioxidant Boost: Garlic and spinach are rich in antioxidants, which help combat inflammation and support overall wellness.

This combination of nutrients makes Garlic Butter Spinach Shrimp a meal that’s as nourishing as it is indulgent.

Customizing Your Garlic Butter Spinach Shrimp

One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily tailor it to your preferences, adding or swapping ingredients to create your perfect dish. Here are some ideas for customizing Garlic Butter Spinach Shrimp:

1. Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper and red chili flakes to your desired heat level, or omit them altogether for a milder flavor.
2. Add More Veggies: Enhance the dish with sautéed mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
3. Swap the Protein: Substitute shrimp with scallops, chicken, or tofu for a different protein option.
4. Change the Base: Serve the shrimp and spinach over rice, quinoa, mashed cauliflower, or even crusty bread for a variety of textures and flavors.
5. Make It Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based butter alternative to keep the dish dairy-free while maintaining its creamy, rich flavor.

These customizations ensure that you can enjoy this recipe in endless variations, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

Garlic Butter Spinach Shrimp is a well-rounded dish on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your dining experience. Here are some serving ideas:

1. Pasta: Toss the shrimp and spinach with spaghetti, fettuccine, or zucchini noodles for a comforting, Italian-inspired meal.
2. Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice to soak up the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
3. Salad: Pair with a light side salad featuring arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
4. Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread to scoop up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
5. Vegetable Sides: Complement the dish with roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or a medley of grilled vegetables.

These pairings create a complete, balanced meal that satisfies every craving.

Tips for Cooking Perfect Garlic Butter Spinach Shrimp

While this recipe is straightforward, a few tips can help ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp, spinach, and garlic make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
2. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; sear them for just 1–2 minutes per side to keep them tender and juicy.
3. Deglaze Properly: Scraping up the browned bits from the pan with white wine or stock enhances the flavor of the sauce.
4. Work in Batches: If your skillet is small, cook the shrimp in batches to ensure even searing and prevent overcrowding.
5. Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the dish as soon as it’s finished cooking.

These tips will help you achieve a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home.

Why Garlic Butter Spinach Shrimp Is a Crowd Favorite

Garlic Butter Spinach Shrimp is the ultimate combination of simplicity, flavor, and versatility. Its buttery, garlicky sauce, juicy shrimp, and tender spinach create a dish that appeals to all palates. The quick preparation time and minimal cleanup make it a favorite for home cooks, while its elegant presentation and rich flavors make it a go-to for special occasions.

Conclusion: A Recipe Worth Repeating

Garlic Butter Spinach Shrimp is more than just a quick dinner—it’s a dish that brings together the best of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weekday meal, prepping for a dinner party, or simply craving something indulgent yet healthy, this recipe delivers on every front.