This creamy shrimp florentine pasta recipe is the perfect blend of luxurious cream sauce and succulent shrimp over your favorite pasta. It's a dish that feels like a treat, but is simple enough to whip up on a weeknight. With the added richness of sun-dried tomatoes and the freshness of spinach and basil, it's a complete meal in a single dish.
Most of the ingredients are common pantry staples, but there are a few you might need to seek out. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a concentrated burst of flavor that really elevates the dish. They're usually found in the canned vegetable aisle or in the produce section of your supermarket. Also, remember to get a good quality parmesan cheese; it's key to the creamy sauce. If possible, buy a block and grate it yourself for the best flavor.
Ingredients for Creamy Shrimp Florentine Pasta
Pasta: Choose your favorite variety. Something like fettuccine or linguine works well with the creamy sauce.
Olive oil: Used for sauteing the shrimp and making the sauce.
Shrimp: Go for medium-size, peeled and deveined.
Parmesan sauce: A homemade creamy sauce using parmesan, it's the star of the dish.
Spinach: Baby spinach is more tender and mild than regular spinach, perfect for this pasta.
Sun-dried tomatoes: These deliver a rich, concentrated tomato flavor.
Basil: Fresh leaves add a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
Parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the dish. Extra is used for garnish.
Garlic: Essential for flavoring the creamy sauce.
All-purpose flour: It helps to thicken the sauce.
Chicken stock: Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
Milk: Warmed milk is part of the base for the creamy sauce.
Half-and-half: Makes the sauce extra creamy and rich.
One reader, Frazier Kaufman says:
This creamy shrimp florentine pasta recipe is a game-changer! The combination of succulent shrimp, vibrant spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes in a luscious parmesan sauce is simply divine. It's a restaurant-quality dish that's surprisingly easy to make at home. I highly recommend trying it - you won't be disappointed!
Essential Techniques for Making Creamy Shrimp Florentine Pasta
How to cook pasta al dente: Cook the pasta in a large stock pot of generously-salted water according to package directions until it is firm to the bite.
How to sauté shrimp: Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, season the shrimp with salt and pepper, and sauté for 3 to 5 minutes, turning once, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
How to make creamy parmesan sauce: Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Sprinkle evenly with flour, stir to combine, then slowly add chicken broth and whisk in milk. Bring to a simmer until the sauce thickens, then add parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. If a creamier sauce is desired, stir in the half and half.
How to combine pasta and sauce: Once the pasta and creamy sauce are finished cooking, combine them in a large stock pot. Add in the spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil, and toss together until everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
How to serve: Serve the creamy shrimp florentine pasta immediately, garnished with extra parmesan cheese.
How To Make Creamy Shrimp Florentine Pasta
If you’re in need of a quick-fix meal, try tossing together sun-dried tomatoes, shrimp pieces and florentine pasta in our creamy florentine pasta recipe.
Serves:
Ingredients
Creamy Shrimp Florentine Pasta:
- 12ozpastauncooked, I used penne
- 1tbspolive oil
- Kosher salt and freshly-cracked black pepper
- 1lbshrimpraw, jumbo, peeled and de-veined
- 1batchCreamy Parmesan Sauce
- 2largehandfuls of fresh baby spinach
- 8.5ozsun-dried tomatoesdrained and roughly chopped
- 1/4cupfresh basil leavesloosely-packed, chopped
- Parmesanlots, freshly-grated
Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- 1tbspolive oilor butter
- 4garlic clovespressed or finely-minced
- 3tbspall-purpose flour
- 1cupchicken stock
- 1cupwarmed milk
- 3/4cupParmesan cheesefreshly-grated
- 1/2tspsalt
- 1/4tspblack pepper
- 1/2cuphalf-and-halfoptional
Instructions
Creamy Shrimp Florentine Pasta:
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Cook pasta al dente according to package directions, in a large stock pot of generously-salted water. Drain, and set aside.
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Meanwhile, heat oil in a separate large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Then add the shrimp to the pan and sauté for 3 to 5 minutes, turning once, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. (Cooking time will vary on the size of your shrimp.) Transfer shrimp with a slotted spoon to a clean plate, and set aside.
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Use the same sauté pan to prepare your Creamy Parmesan Sauce.
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Once the pasta and creamy sauce are finished cooking and ready to go, combine them in the large stock pot. Add in the spinach, sun-dried tomatoes and basil, and toss together until everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
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Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese.
Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
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Heat olive oil (or melt butter) in the large sauté pan over medium-high heat.
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Add garlic and sauté one minute, stirring occasionally, until fragrant. Sprinkle evenly with the flour, and stir to combine. Sauté for an additional minute so that the flour can cook, stirring occasionally.
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Then slowly add chicken broth, whisking to combine until smooth. Whisk in milk, and bring to a simmer for 1 minute, or until the sauce has thickened a bit.
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Add in the Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper, and stir until the cheese has melted. If you’d like a creamier sauce (which is delicious), stir in the half and half as well.
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Remove from heat and use/serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Calories: 436.57kcal
- Fat: 13.14g
- Saturated Fat: 5.48g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.03g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.41g
- Carbohydrates: 55.62g
- Fiber: 5.22g
- Sugar: 15.29g
- Protein: 26.37g
- Cholesterol: 92.88mg
- Sodium: 701.41mg
- Calcium: 336.25mg
- Potassium: 1313.45mg
- Iron: 3.86mg
- Vitamin A: 112.90µg
- Vitamin C: 12.72mg
Crucial Technique for Perfecting Creamy Shrimp Florentine Pasta
When preparing the shrimp, ensure they are properly deveined and cleaned before cooking. This not only improves the taste but also the presentation of the dish. Additionally, be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they can become tough and lose their succulent flavor. The key is to cook them until they just turn pink and then remove them from the heat immediately.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Creamy Shrimp and Spinach Pasta
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and prepare the creamy parmesan sauce in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Multitask: While the pasta is cooking, sauté the shrimp and prepare the creamy parmesan sauce simultaneously to save time.
Use frozen shrimp: Opt for pre-peeled and deveined frozen shrimp to skip the time-consuming task of cleaning and deveining fresh shrimp.
Quick-cooking pasta: Choose quick-cooking pasta varieties to reduce the overall cooking time for the dish.
One-pot option: Consider making the creamy parmesan sauce in the same pot used for cooking the pasta to minimize cleanup and save time.
Pre-washed spinach: Purchase pre-washed baby spinach to eliminate the need for washing and drying the greens before use.
Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Shrimp Florentine Pasta Recipe
pasta - Substitute with zucchini noodles: Zucchini noodles can be used as a low-carb and gluten-free alternative to pasta, providing a lighter and healthier option.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in cooking.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity and flavor enhancement.
shrimp - Substitute with scallops: Scallops can be used as a delicious alternative to shrimp, offering a sweet and delicate flavor in the dish.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano cheese can be used as a substitute for parmesan, providing a slightly sharper and saltier flavor.
baby spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a substitute for baby spinach, offering a hearty and nutritious green component to the dish.
sun-dried tomatoes - Substitute with roasted red peppers: Roasted red peppers can be used as a substitute for sun-dried tomatoes, providing a sweet and smoky flavor to the dish.
fresh basil leaves - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can be used as a substitute for basil, adding a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish.
garlic cloves - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for garlic, providing a milder and sweeter flavor to the dish.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour: Gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute for all-purpose flour, making the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can be used as a substitute for chicken stock, providing a flavorful base for the creamy parmesan sauce.
warmed milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk can be used as a substitute for warmed milk, offering a dairy-free alternative for the creamy parmesan sauce.
half-and-half - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a substitute for half-and-half, providing a rich and creamy texture to the sauce.
How to Beautifully Present Creamy Shrimp Florentine Pasta
Elevate the pasta: Gently twirl the pasta into a nest shape using tongs, and place it in the center of the plate. This creates a visually appealing base for the dish.
Garnish with fresh basil: Place a small sprig of fresh basil on top of the pasta nest to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Arrange the shrimp: Artfully arrange the cooked shrimp around the pasta nest, ensuring they are evenly distributed and visually appealing.
Drizzle with creamy parmesan sauce: Using a small ladle, carefully drizzle the creamy parmesan sauce over the pasta and shrimp, ensuring an even distribution without overwhelming the dish.
Sprinkle with sun-dried tomatoes: Sprinkle the sun-dried tomatoes around the plate, adding a burst of color and a sweet, tangy flavor to the dish.
Add a dusting of parmesan: Using a fine grater, dust a light layer of parmesan over the entire dish, adding a finishing touch and enhancing the flavors.
Place spinach leaves delicately: Arrange a few fresh baby spinach leaves strategically around the plate, adding a touch of vibrant green and a hint of earthiness to the presentation.
Final touch with cracked black pepper: Finish the dish with a gentle sprinkle of freshly-cracked black pepper, adding a subtle hint of heat and a visually appealing contrast to the creamy sauce.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Shrimp and Spinach Pasta
Stock pot: A large, deep pot used for boiling pasta, making stocks, and cooking large quantities of liquid-based dishes.
Sauté pan: A wide, flat-bottomed pan with relatively tall sides, used for sautéing, searing, and frying ingredients.
Slotted spoon: A spoon with slots or holes that allow liquids to drain away, commonly used for lifting solid foods from liquids.
Large stock pot: A large, deep pot used for boiling pasta, making stocks, and cooking large quantities of liquid-based dishes.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending ingredients together, incorporating air into mixtures, and smoothing out lumps in sauces and batters.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients, mixing batters, and preparing various components of a dish.
Food processor: A versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, pureeing, and blending ingredients.
Grater: A kitchen tool with a rough surface used for shredding or grating foods such as cheese, vegetables, and citrus zest.
Measuring cup: A cup with marked measurements used for accurately measuring liquid or dry ingredients.
Measuring spoon: A set of spoons in various sizes used for measuring small amounts of ingredients.
Cutting board: A durable board used as a surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting, slicing, and chopping various ingredients.
Garlic press: A kitchen tool used to crush garlic cloves, extracting the pulp and juices for use in recipes.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending ingredients together, incorporating air into mixtures, and smoothing out lumps in sauces and batters.
Storing and Freezing Tips for Creamy Shrimp Florentine Pasta
- To store leftover creamy shrimp florentine pasta, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Seal the container tightly and place it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- When reheating the stored pasta, you may need to add a splash of milk or chicken broth to help loosen up the sauce and restore its creamy texture. Heat the pasta gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's warmed through.
- If you want to freeze the creamy shrimp florentine pasta, it's best to do so without the shrimp. Prepare the pasta dish as directed, but leave out the shrimp. Allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing and label the container with the date. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat frozen creamy shrimp florentine pasta, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, transfer the thawed pasta to a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little milk or chicken broth to help thin it out. While the pasta is reheating, cook the shrimp separately in a skillet with a little olive oil until they're pink and cooked through. Add the cooked shrimp to the reheated pasta and toss to combine before serving.
- It's important to note that the texture of the pasta and shrimp may change slightly after being frozen and reheated, but the dish will still be delicious and satisfying.
The Best Ways to Reheat Leftover Creamy Shrimp Florentine Pasta
Here are the best methods for reheating leftover creamy shrimp florentine pasta:
Microwave method: Transfer the desired amount of leftover pasta to a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of chicken broth, milk, or water to help maintain the creamy consistency of the sauce. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is creamy.
Stovetop method: Place the leftover creamy shrimp florentine pasta in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth, milk, or water to the pan to help loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from sticking. Gently stir the pasta as it reheats, ensuring that it is evenly heated throughout. If the sauce appears too thick, add more liquid as needed. Once the pasta is heated through and the sauce is creamy, remove it from the heat and serve immediately.
Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover pasta to an oven-safe dish and add a splash of chicken broth, milk, or water to help maintain the creamy consistency of the sauce. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the pasta from drying out. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
Slow cooker method: If you have a larger amount of leftover creamy shrimp florentine pasta, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the pasta to the slow cooker and add a splash of chicken broth, milk, or water to help maintain the creamy consistency of the sauce. Set the slow cooker to low heat and cover with the lid. Allow the pasta to reheat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through and the sauce is creamy.
Interesting Trivia About Creamy Shrimp Florentine Pasta
The creamy shrimp florentine pasta recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of shrimp, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes with a creamy parmesan sauce. This dish is a great source of protein and vitamins, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option. Shrimp is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Additionally, spinach is packed with essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C. Sun-dried tomatoes add a rich, tangy flavor to the dish and are a good source of antioxidants. This flavorful pasta dish is a great way to enjoy a balanced and tasty meal.
Is Making Creamy Shrimp Florentine Pasta at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this creamy shrimp florentine pasta recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients in your area. Shrimp and parmesan cheese can be pricier, but the dish can be balanced with affordable ingredients like pasta and spinach. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be an 8. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $25-$30, factoring in the cost of all ingredients.
Is This Creamy Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
The creamy shrimp florentine pasta recipe, while undeniably delicious, may not be the healthiest choice due to several factors:
- The dish is high in calories, with the pasta, creamy sauce, and shrimp all contributing to the calorie count
- The creamy parmesan sauce is made with flour, cheese, and half-and-half, which are high in saturated fats and can raise cholesterol levels
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of salt, which can lead to high blood pressure if consumed in excess
However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as:
- Shrimp, which is a lean protein source and provides essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids
- Spinach, a nutrient-dense vegetable rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium
- Sun-dried tomatoes, which are a good source of antioxidants and vitamin C
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates
- Reduce the amount of cheese and half-and-half in the sauce, or replace them with low-fat alternatives like milk and Greek yogurt
- Increase the amount of spinach and other vegetables in the dish to boost the nutrient content and provide more fiber
- Use less salt and rely on herbs and spices for flavor instead
- Serve smaller portions and pair the dish with a side salad to create a more balanced meal
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the flavors of creamy shrimp florentine pasta while also making it a more nutritious and well-rounded meal.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Shrimp and Spinach Pasta Recipe
The creamy shrimp florentine pasta recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy parmesan sauce adds richness to the dish, while the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil provide a burst of freshness. The shrimp are perfectly cooked and add a lovely seafood element to the pasta. The use of spinach not only adds color but also a nutritional boost. Overall, this recipe is a winner, offering a satisfying and indulgent dining experience.
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Why trust this Creamy Shrimp Florentine Pasta Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a must-try for any seafood lover. The succulent shrimp is perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection, while the creamy parmesan sauce adds a rich and indulgent touch. The addition of vibrant spinach and sweet sun-dried tomatoes not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes to a well-balanced dish. With the use of high-quality ingredients such as fresh basil and savory parmesan cheese, this recipe promises a restaurant-quality experience right in the comfort of your own home.
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