One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Spinach

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a go-to for anyone looking for a light yet satisfying meal. The juicy shrimp cook quickly, while the garlic-infused olive oil and lemon bring brightness and depth. It’s naturally gluten-free, high in protein, and fits a wide range of diets from Mediterranean to low-carb. Plus, it’s all made in one pot, making prep and cleanup effortless.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

• 6 medium cloves garlic, sliced, divided

• 1 pound spinach

• ¼ teaspoon salt plus ⅛ teaspoon, divided

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 pound shrimp (21-30 count), peeled and deveined

• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper

• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley

• 1½ teaspoons lemon zest

Directions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add half of the sliced garlic and sauté until it just starts to brown, about 1 to 2 minutes.

2. Add the spinach and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Toss to coat in the oil and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is mostly wilted, about 3 to 5 minutes.

3. Remove from heat, stir in the lemon juice, and transfer the spinach to a bowl. Keep warm.

4. Increase heat to medium-high and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same pot. Add the rest of the garlic and cook until it begins to brown, 1 to 2 minutes.

5. Add the shrimp, crushed red pepper, and remaining ⅛ teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until the shrimp are just opaque and cooked through, 3 to 5 minutes.

6. Serve the shrimp over the spinach and sprinkle with chopped parsley and lemon zest.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Yield: 4 cups
Active Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add grains: Serve over cooked quinoa, brown rice, or couscous for a heartier meal.

• Creamy twist: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a creamy sauce.

• Spice it up: Add extra crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.

• Different greens: Swap spinach for kale, Swiss chard, or arugula.

• Citrus swap: Use lime juice and zest instead of lemon for a different citrus note.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through, or microwave in short 1-minute bursts, stirring in between to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

FAQs

How can I tell when the shrimp are done cooking?

The shrimp will turn opaque with a pink-orange color and curl slightly. Avoid overcooking—they should be firm but tender, not rubbery.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes, it keeps well for a few days and reheats quickly, making it a solid choice for meal prep.

What type of shrimp should I buy?

Look for peeled and deveined shrimp (21-30 count per pound) to save time. Wild-caught shrimp tend to have better flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

This recipe is naturally dairy-free, so no substitutions are needed.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can add mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the mix. Just sauté them before adding the shrimp.

What’s a good side dish?

Crusty bread, a simple salad, or a light pasta like angel hair pair well with this dish.

How do I keep shrimp from getting rubbery?

Don’t overcook them. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque, usually 3–5 minutes.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but in a pinch, you can use garlic powder. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to taste.

How can I make the dish less spicy?

Simply reduce or omit the crushed red pepper. The lemon and garlic will still provide plenty of flavor.

Conclusion

One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Spinach is a weeknight dinner hero—quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. With its fresh ingredients, simple steps, and versatile nature, it’s a dish you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you serve it with grains, pasta, or just as is, it delivers every time.