GARLIC SHRIMP AND SPINACH SAUTÉ
Garlic Shrimp And Spinach Sauté is a light and invigorating one-pan dish perfect for quick lunches or elegant dinners. Juicy shrimp are gently pan-seared with fragrant garlic and a touch of chilli flakes, infusing every bite with bold and savoury depth. Tossed with tender, wilted spinach and finished with a bright squeeze of lemon, it’s packed with nutrients and low in calories. This vibrant meal provides high-quality lean protein and essential antioxidants while remaining naturally gluten-free and low in fat. The dish comes together in 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings or simple weekend meals. Its Mediterranean-inspired flavours are easy to pair with grains, roasted vegetables or fresh salad. Whether served solo or as part of a balanced plate, this sauté offers delicious simplicity without compromise on health or flavour.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Dinner
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Sauté, One-Pot Wonders
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Summer, Picnic, Cocktail Party
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Low Fat, Quick and Easy, Healthy, Wheat / Gluten-Free
DISH TYPE
Salad
INGREDIENTS
The preparation of Garlic Shrimp And Spinach Sauté involves the following ingredients:
- 100g peeled shrimp
- 1 cup spinach leaves
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Pinch of chilli flakes
- Squeeze of fresh lemon juice (approx. 1 teaspoon)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
- Pinch of black pepper
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 138 kilocalories
- Fat: 5.2 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0.8 grams
- Carbohydrates: 2.6 grams
- Sodium: 261.1 milligrams
- Sugar: 0.3 grams
- Fibre: 0.8 grams
- Protein: 21.2 grams
- Cholesterol: 161 milligrams
- Calcium: 100.3 milligrams
- Potassium: 452.8 milligrams
- Iron: 1.4 milligrams
PREPARATION
- Prepare The Ingredients: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with kitchen paper. Mince the garlic and wash the spinach.
- Heat The Pan: Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Let it warm for 30 seconds.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the garlic and sauté gently for 30 to 40 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan, season with salt, pepper and chilli flakes. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Add Spinach: Add the spinach and stir for 1 to 2 minutes until wilted and bright green.
- Finish With Lemon: Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture, stir it well and remove from the heat.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer to a plate and enjoy as it is or with a simple grain like quinoa or couscous.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
7–8 minutes
TIPS
- Avoid Excess Moisture: Dry the shrimp well to avoid excess moisture and ensure even browning.
- Use Garlic: Use fresh garlic instead of jarred for a stronger flavour.
- Avoid Overcooking: Don’t overcook the shrimp because they should turn pink and slightly firm.
- Add Spinach At The End: Add spinach last to retain its vibrant green colour and prevent overcooking.
- For Extra Zesty Flavour: Finish with extra lemon zest if you like a more intense citrus note.
VARIATIONS
- Spicy Kick: Add more chilli flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Veg Boost: Include sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for more fibre and colour.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a teaspoon of coconut cream or tahini before serving.
- Different Proteins: Swap shrimp with tofu, scallops or shredded chicken as preferred.
- Grain Bowl Option: Serve over warm couscous, brown rice or lentils for a heartier meal.
- Herb Infusion: Finish with chopped parsley or dill for added freshness.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Shrimp can be frozen, but spinach loses its texture, so freeze only if necessary.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or broth.
- Meal Prep: Keep components separate if preparing ahead, and add spinach just before serving.