Sautéed Tuscan Garlic Shrimp in Spinach and Tomato Sauce
Succulent shrimp sautéed with fresh garlic, onions, and vibrant spinach simmered in a light tomato sauce with Mediterranean herbs. This mediterranean-inspired whole30 (gluten free, paleo) ready in about 25 minutes blends sea salt, black pepper, avocado oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 lb medium-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups baby spinach leaves
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add 1 finely chopped small onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Step 2: Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic but not browned.
- Step 3: Add 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and release juices.
- Step 4: Season 1 lb peeled and deveined medium-large shrimp with 1 tsp sea salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Step 5: Add 3 cups baby spinach leaves, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, and 1/2 tsp dried basil. Stir gently and cook for 2 minutes until spinach wilts.
- Step 6: Finish with 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, stir to combine, and remove from heat. Serve immediately.
Equipment for this recipe
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Frequently asked questions
How long does Sautéed Tuscan Garlic Shrimp in Spinach and Tomato Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Sautéed Tuscan Garlic Shrimp in Spinach and Tomato Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Sautéed Tuscan Garlic Shrimp in Spinach and Tomato Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Sautéed Tuscan Garlic Shrimp in Spinach and Tomato Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Sautéed Tuscan Garlic Shrimp in Spinach and Tomato Sauce gluten free?
Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten free, paleo, low carb, dairy free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.