Shrimp, Leek, and Spinach Penne (25 Minutes)

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There’s something magical about the combination of succulent shrimp, tender leeks, and vibrant spinach, all nestled in a bed of penne pasta and enveloped in a light, flavorful sauce. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in the delectable combination of ingredients but also in the fact that this dish can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect solution for those hectic days when you crave a sensational meal without the fuss. Let’s begin!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 ounces penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 leeks, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the sliced leeks and minced garlic. Sauté until the leeks are tender and slightly caramelized, about 5-6 minutes.
  4. Add the spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  5. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a simmer. If desired, add the heavy cream for a creamier sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Add the cooked penne pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.

Notes

Use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them thoroughly before cooking. Feel free to add a touch of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat if you enjoy spicy flavors. Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more broth or cream according to your preference. Serve the pasta with a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor and freshness. Be mindful not to overcook the shrimp to prevent them from becoming rubbery. They cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them while sautéing. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/shrimp-leek-and-spinach-penne-25-minutes/