Shrimp Scampi with Peppers and Spinach
Shrimp scampi is a classic dish that never fails to impress. With its buttery garlic sauce and tender shrimp, it’s a dish that’s both elegant and comforting. Today, we’re elevating this beloved recipe by adding vibrant red bell peppers and fresh spinach, creating a delightful medley of flavors and colors. Using Gorton’s Simply Bake Shrimp Classic Scampi makes this recipe not only incredibly tasty but also super convenient. Let’s dive into this scrumptious Shrimp Scampi with Peppers and Spinach that’s perfect for any dinner occasion.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Shrimp Scampi with Peppers and Spinach stands out for several reasons. First, it combines the rich flavors of garlic and shrimp with the sweetness of bell peppers and the earthiness of spinach, making every bite a delightful experience. Second, the use of an oven bag ensures that the shrimp remain juicy and tender while infusing all the ingredients with flavor. Lastly, this dish is quick to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner party.
What Goes Into Shrimp Scampi with Peppers and Spinach
To make this delicious Shrimp Scampi with Peppers and Spinach, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 oven bag from Gorton’s Simply Bake Shrimp Classic Scampi
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 oz. dry angel hair pasta
Equipment at a Glance
Before we start cooking, gather the following equipment:
- Large Pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Oven Bag: To cook the shrimp and vegetables together seamlessly.
- Large Skillet: To sauté the garlic and peppers.
- Colander: For draining the pasta.
- Serving Dish: To serve your beautiful creation.
Shrimp Scampi with Peppers and Spinach — Do This Next
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Shrimp Scampi with Peppers and Spinach.
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the dry angel hair pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the peppers are tender and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Spinach
Stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach to the skillet. Continue to sauté until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes. This will add a lovely color and nutritional boost to your dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Shrimp
While the vegetables are cooking, take the oven bag of Gorton’s Simply Bake Shrimp Classic Scampi and follow the package instructions. Typically, you will place it in the oven at the specified temperature for approximately 20-25 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Once the shrimp is cooked, carefully remove it from the oven, and pour the contents into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Toss everything together gently, adding the cooked pasta to the mix. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the Shrimp Scampi with Peppers and Spinach to a serving dish. You may garnish with some freshly cracked pepper or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful meal!
Warm & Cool Weather Spins
This Shrimp Scampi with Peppers and Spinach is versatile for any season. Consider these variations:
- Warm Weather: Serve the dish chilled as a pasta salad by mixing in a bit of lemon juice and olive oil.
- Cool Weather: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, creating a warm and hearty dish.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with chickpeas for a plant-based twist.
- Extra Veggies: Include zucchini or asparagus for added texture and nutrients.
Watch Outs & How to Fix
As with any recipe, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your Shrimp Scampi with Peppers and Spinach turns out perfectly:
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they can become rubbery. Follow the package instructions closely.
- Too Salty: If the dish ends up too salty, add a splash of lemon juice or a bit of sugar to balance the flavors.
- Sticky Pasta: If the angel hair pasta sticks together, rinse it with cold water after draining to separate the strands.
- Burnt Garlic: Keep an eye on the garlic as it can burn quickly. Reduce the heat if necessary.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
If you want to get ahead with meal prep, here are some helpful tips:
- Make Ahead: You can sauté the vegetables and cook the shrimp in advance. Just combine them with the cooked pasta when ready to serve.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
- Freezing: While not ideal for the shrimp, you can freeze the pasta and vegetables separately, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Shrimp Scampi with Peppers and Spinach Q&A
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If you have frozen shrimp, just make sure to thaw them properly before adding them to the dish. Gorton’s Simply Bake Shrimp makes this easy and convenient.
What can I substitute for angel hair pasta?
If you prefer another type of pasta, spaghetti or linguine works well as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Certainly! Broccoli, peas, or mushrooms would all be wonderful additions to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your Shrimp Scampi with Peppers and Spinach.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the sautéing process to give your dish a spicy kick!
The Last Word
Shrimp Scampi with Peppers and Spinach is a delightful dish that brings together the best of both worlds: the richness of a classic scampi and the freshness of vegetables. With its simplicity and ease of preparation, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your home. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. So gather your ingredients, and let’s create a meal that’s bursting with flavor and goodness. Enjoy every bite!
Shrimp Scampi with Peppers and Spinach
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the dry angel hair pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the peppers are tender and the garlic is fragrant.
- Stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach to the skillet. Continue to sauté until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
- While the vegetables are cooking, take the oven bag of Gorton’s Simply Bake Shrimp Classic Scampi and follow the package instructions, typically baking for 20-25 minutes.
- Once the shrimp is cooked, carefully remove it from the oven, and pour the contents into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Toss everything together gently, adding the cooked pasta to the mix. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Transfer the Shrimp Scampi with Peppers and Spinach to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly cracked pepper or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a chilled version, mix in lemon juice and olive oil for a refreshing pasta salad.
- Consider adding red pepper flakes for extra heat during cooler months.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute shrimp with chickpeas.
