One-Skillet Shrimp and Spinach

Name: One-Skillet Shrimp and Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and drained; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Recipes

I love making One-Skillet Shrimp and Spinach because it’s a quick and flavorful dish that comes together in no time. With tender shrimp and vibrant spinach, this meal is not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying. The best part? Everything cooks in just one skillet, which means less cleanup for me. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, I find this recipe never fails to impress everyone at the table. I can't wait to share how easy and delicious it is to make!

Created by

Jackies

Last updated on 2026-02-15T14:10:18.686Z

When I first tried making One-Skillet Shrimp and Spinach, I was amazed at how quickly I could prepare such a dish. I tossed shrimp into a hot skillet and watched as they turned pink, while fresh spinach wilted down to create a beautifully vibrant meal. The simplicity of using just one skillet not only made cooking easier, but I also loved how the flavors melded together in the pan.

One important tip I've discovered is to add the seasoning just at the right moment. I sprinkle in the garlic when the shrimp are nearly done cooking, allowing it to impart its aromatic flavors without burning. This small adjustment brings the dish to life and makes every bite a delight!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup
Healthy ingredients packed with flavor
Perfect for a weeknight meal or entertaining guests

      

Preparing Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh, high-quality shrimp is crucial for this dish. Look for shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a gentle sea-like scent. Avoid any that smell overly fishy or have a slimy texture. If fresh shrimp isn't available, frozen shrimp can be a great alternative—just be sure to thaw them properly in the refrigerator overnight before using. This prevents excess moisture during cooking and ensures better texture.

For the spinach, baby spinach is my go-to choice because of its tender leaves and mild flavor. Always rinse spinach thoroughly to remove any grit. You can also substitute kale or Swiss chard if you prefer something heartier; just chop them into smaller pieces and allow a slightly longer cooking time to soften.

Technique Tips for the Perfect Sauté

The key to perfect sautéed shrimp is cooking them quickly over medium-high heat. This helps to achieve that delicious sear while keeping them tender. Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can lead to steaming instead of sautéing. If you’re using a large batch of shrimp, consider cooking them in batches rather than all at once.

When sautéing garlic, keep a close eye on it. Garlic can quickly move from perfectly fragrant to burned, altering the dish's flavor. Cooking it just until it's fragrant, about one minute, will enhance the dish without overwhelming the shrimp and spinach. If you accidentally overcook the garlic, consider starting that step over with fresh garlic to avoid a bitter taste.

Customizing Your One-Skillet Meal

Feel free to customize this recipe with other vegetables you enjoy. Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even asparagus can add vibrant colors and additional nutrients. Simply adjust the cooking times to ensure all veggies are cooked through yet still vibrant. For added flavor, consider a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese right before serving.

If you're looking to add more bulk to the meal, pair this dish with a serving of quinoa or rice. They make great companions and can soak up the flavorful sauce the shrimp and spinach create. Alternatively, for a low-carb option, serve it over zucchini noodles for a light, healthy twist.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp and Spinach

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cups fresh spinach, washed and drained
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all the ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the shrimp, seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Garlic and Spinach

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Finish

Return the sautéed shrimp to the skillet with the spinach. Toss everything together for another 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors. Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve warm.

Serve the dish immediately for the best flavor. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider squeezing fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving.

Storing and Reheating

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the shrimp tender, reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat. This will warm everything through without overcooking the shrimp. Add a splash of water or broth to create some steam, which can help prevent drying out during reheating.

If you prefer to enjoy the dish later, you can freeze it as well. However, be aware that the texture of the shrimp may change upon freezing. Ensure the dish is completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Consume within two months for the best quality.

Scaling the Recipe

This One-Skillet Shrimp and Spinach recipe is easily scalable. If you're cooking for a crowd, simply double the ingredients but use a larger skillet or several skillets to ensure everything cooks evenly. You'll still want to sauté the shrimp in batches to maintain that perfect sear.

When scaling up, consider adjusting your seasoning. Sometimes, simply doubling the spices may not yield the same flavor intensity; taste as you go and add a little extra salt or red pepper flakes to suit your palate without overpowering the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for spinach?

You can use kale or Swiss chard if you prefer.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are gluten-free.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers or cherry tomatoes would make great additions.