Creamy Shrimp and Spinach Ricotta Pasta
Creamy Shrimp and Spinach Ricotta Pasta is a delicious weeknight meal that takes just 30 minutes to prepare. This dish features perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce made with fresh shrimp, vibrant spinach, and creamy ricotta cheese. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful experience that will impress your family or guests without demanding hours in the kitchen.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Drain, reserving some pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque (3–4 minutes per side).
- Stir in minced garlic and fresh spinach; sauté for about 1 minute until spinach wilts.
- Reduce heat, add ricotta and Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until combined into a creamy sauce.
- Incorporate the drained pasta into the skillet, mixing thoroughly. If needed, add reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
- Finish with a drizzle of fresh lemon juice before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 215mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider substituting chicken for shrimp or adding sun-dried tomatoes. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on low heat with a splash of cream.