Sautéed Shrimp with Spinach Recipe

Name: Sautéed Shrimp with Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 1.5 cups fresh baby spinach; 1.5 teaspoons granulated garlic powder; 20 frozen shrimp, thawed; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil, or as needed

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Shrimp and Spinach Skillet

This delicious and healthy shrimp and spinach dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch. With just a few ingredients, its packed with protein and flavor. Heres how to make it:

Ingredients:

1 cups fresh baby spinach
1 teaspoons granulated garlic powder
20 frozen shrimp, thawed
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil, or as needed

Directions:

Place spinach in a large bowl, sprinkle with garlic powder, and toss to coat evenly.
In a second bowl, add the thawed shrimp. Sprinkle with black pepper and toss to coat well.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes, or until the shrimp are bright pink on the outside and the meat is opaque.
Add the spinach to the skillet. Cook for another minute, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is just wilted.
Remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy your fresh, flavorful shrimp and spinach skillet!

Cooks Note:

The shrimp should be thawed before cooking. This can be done by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 20 to 30 minutes.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories: 152
Fat: 8g (10% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 1g (6% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 152mg (51% Daily Value)
Sodium: 194mg (8% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrates: 3g (1% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% Daily Value)
Protein: 17g (35% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 9mg (10% Daily Value)
Calcium: 59mg (5% Daily Value)
Iron: 3mg (19% Daily Value)
Potassium: 304mg (6% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is based on available data. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Recipe Overview: This simple, flavorful dish features shrimp sauted with fresh spinach, seasoned with garlic powder and black pepper. Its quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

History and Origin

Sauted shrimp with spinach is a contemporary American dish that draws from Mediterranean and Southern cooking traditions. Shrimp, a staple in coastal cuisine, pairs beautifully with leafy greens like spinach, which has been a common ingredient in European cooking since the Middle Ages. While the specific origins of this combination are hard to pinpoint, it likely emerged as part of modern, health-conscious cooking. The dish combines lean protein and nutritious greens, making it a popular choice for those seeking a low-calorie, high-protein meal.

Regional Variations

While sauted shrimp with spinach can be found in many American kitchens, the preparation and seasoning often vary by region. In the Southern United States, for example, the dish might be enhanced with Old Bay seasoning or Cajun spices, reflecting the region's bold flavor profile. In Mediterranean countries, such as Spain or Italy, olive oil, garlic, and lemon are commonly used to complement the shrimp and spinach. These regional nuances give the dish distinct variations while maintaining its core ingredients: shrimp and spinach.

Differences from Similar Dishes

At first glance, this dish may appear similar to shrimp scampi or shrimp and garlic pasta, but the primary difference lies in the simplicity and lightness of the sauted shrimp with spinach. Unlike shrimp scampi, which is typically served with butter and pasta, this recipe avoids rich sauces and starchy carbs, focusing on a lighter, healthier option. The use of spinach also sets it apart from other shrimp dishes, adding a nutritional element that many shrimp-based recipes lack. Furthermore, the dish doesnt require extensive preparation, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Where It Is Typically Served

This dish is often served as a main course for lunch or dinner. Its versatility means it can be paired with a variety of side dishes, such as quinoa, rice, or even a light salad. The simplicity of the dish also makes it a popular choice for meal prepping, especially for those following a low-carb or high-protein diet. Many restaurants that focus on healthy, Mediterranean-inspired meals will feature variations of this dish on their menu, as it aligns with modern dining preferences for nutritious, easy-to-make meals.

Fun Facts

Did you know that shrimp are one of the most popular seafood choices worldwide? They are packed with protein and low in calories, making them a favorite in many health-conscious diets.
Spinach, often touted as a superfood, contains iron, vitamins, and fiber. Its a key ingredient in many traditional dishes around the world and is particularly known for its role in Popeye cartoons!
The combination of shrimp and spinach is not only delicious but also a great way to boost your intake of antioxidants, which help protect your body from oxidative stress.
In some Mediterranean cuisines, shrimp are often cooked with spinach and other greens as a quick and easy meal after a long day of fishing, symbolizing both practicality and fresh, healthy eating.

FAQ about Sautéed Shrimp with Spinach Recipe

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish. Keep in mind that frozen spinach is often more compact than fresh, so you may need to adjust the amount accordingly.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp.

This dish is best served immediately after cooking, as the shrimp can become rubbery if reheated too many times. However, you can prepare the shrimp and spinach separately in advance, then combine and cook them right before serving.

To add more flavor, consider seasoning the shrimp with garlic powder, onion powder, or chili flakes before cooking. You can also add lemon juice, grated cheese, or a splash of sesame oil at the end of cooking for extra depth.

Yes, you can use other oils such as avocado oil, coconut oil, or vegetable oil. Keep in mind that each oil will slightly alter the taste and texture of the dish.

The shrimp should be cooked until they turn bright pink and opaque. They typically take about 3-5 minutes to cook through on medium-high heat. Be cautious not to overcook, as shrimp can become tough.

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions. Just make sure to cook them until tender before adding the shrimp and spinach.

To add more heat, you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Alternatively, you can sauté fresh chopped chili peppers with the shrimp for a spicier kick.

Yes, you can use chicken breast, fish fillets, or even tofu as a substitute for shrimp. Adjust the cooking time based on the protein you're using to ensure it is properly cooked.

This dish pairs well with a side of rice, quinoa, or pasta. You could also serve it with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra juices.

Comments

Soup Loving Nicole

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

This turned out pretty good. Sprinkling the garlic powder over the spinach doesn't do any good. It doesn't stick to it. I say add it to the shrimp instead. This was super simple and was okay but I think it could have used a little more flavor. If I were to make this again I'd use butter instead of oil and I'd also give it a big squeeze of lemon in the end.

Todd

11/09/2019 11:10:04 PM

This was fantastic. Do what the others said. Season the shrimp and use butter. If you have it, hit it with a splash of toasted sesame oil. I also grated some pecorino and mixed it with the shrimp. Cook a lot of spinach. With the spices left from cooking the shrimp, the butter and sesame oil, it’s delectable. The only complaint I got was “I could eat myself miserable with this dish”.

rsvacek1123

09/13/2023 01:21:49 PM

Everyone hates a critic that alters the recipe as posted, so I'll say I made this dish per the instructions the first time. Needed to be kicked-up a notch, so the next time I made it I sauteed FRESH garlic (3 cloves, chopped fine), added some red pepper flakes, then the shrimp and lastly the spinach. So 3.5 stars for the first time, 5 stars with the slightly altered recipe.

DreamyPrawn2643

10/26/2022 05:15:31 PM

Good recipe, but unless you are using tiny salad shrimp a cup and a half of spinach will yield almost nothing after cooking. I used an entire large bag of spinach with large shrimp

NINA ROSE

02/28/2019 01:44:17 AM

This was a really simple recipe. However, I did tweak it a little bit for more flavor. I added chopped white onions, minced garlic, shredded Parmesan cheese, a hint of sesame seed oil and parsley flakes. It was bursting with flavor!!! :)

Tonja Bradley

01/10/2019 03:48:25 PM

I loved this recipe but I did change it a little, Soup Loving Nicole suggested using butter and seasoning the shrimp instead of the spinach which I did and I also added a few pieces of chicken breast and it was delicious!

cindymom

04/27/2020 01:38:52 AM

Good, easy recipe. I sautéed a small Vadelia onion, chopped, in butter and a dab of evoo; then pushed onion to the side before adding shrimp, seasoned with pepper, garlic and Old Bay. Very good seasoning combo!!! After sautéing the shrimp, I added 3 1/2 cups baby spinach, which turned out to be not nearly enough. Next time I’ll do at least 5 or 6 cups of spinach.

Dorothy Monte-Cuoco Pino

11/13/2019 05:53:08 AM

I did change it a bit. I used equal parts olive oil & butter . I also seasoned the shrimp with garlic powder, pepper & a little Old Bay seasoning. I added a little basil while cooking & served over plain white rice.

Karen Griska

05/08/2021 02:15:47 AM

Thank you all for making this family meal a winner! I used all your suggestions and it was awesome. Even my son who says he doesn't like spinach loved it. I seasoned the shrimp with garlic powder and pepper. Sautéed in butter and olive oil with one chopped yellow onion. Added 3 cups of spinach (would use more next time), toasted sesame oil, and squeezed 1/4 lemon juice. Forgot to add some Parmesan cheese, but didn't miss it. This was so good!

ama19

08/28/2023 08:19:24 PM

I halved the pepper because it was too much as it was and doubled the amount of spinach, and I’d say it was pretty perfect that way!

GutsyKiwi9432

01/17/2025 05:47:24 PM

I made it exactly as written except for cutting back on the ground pepper. Next time I would triple the amount of spinach and use lemon pepper instead of ground pepper. It was so simple. I have already shared the recipe with 2 other friends.

Mary

09/02/2025 11:39:29 PM

Used the recipe as a base. Made it my own. More spinach, more garlic 🧄 and added artichokes with lemon 🍋 juice. Mmmmm

GutsyKiwi9432

01/17/2025 05:47:24 PM

Joan Desousa

10/31/2024 03:40:45 PM

great for a quick breakfast something different for sure if you are watching your macros.. great protein. and veg

Janet Davis

07/02/2024 01:28:03 PM

Such a simple recipe with perfect results.

maryhudson12

04/08/2024 10:53:02 PM

Very easy when you don't feel like cooking, I'm in the kitchen now tossing it all together, thanks alots.

fuzawad1

09/29/2023 09:19:05 PM

Very good made it as written I added diced tomatoes to the rice then did the spinach and shrimp will make again

donna braun

04/25/2023 12:07:26 PM

Easy peezy and delicious!

freebie

11/27/2022 06:26:22 PM

I have been cooking this for years with different variations. I agree with nana the dish needs a bit more umph and a cup and a half of spinach would cook down to 1/4 cup of spinach. But overall a very nice recipe.

NanaT

07/23/2022 05:08:09 AM

Recipe is easy but I altered it. I added half of a small sliced onion and three tablespoons of minced garlic. I seasoned shrimp with paprika and cajun season. I sautéed with olivevoil and two table spoons butter. I sprinkled the spinach once it was in the skillet with garlic powder. Once done I added a few drops of lemon juice to the skillet.

Ashley's Chicken Katsu with Tonkatsu Sauce Recipe

audio version

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Sautéed Shrimp with Spinach Recipe