Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach

INGREDIENTS:

• 8 oz (about 225g) penne pasta
• 1 lb (about 450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and dried
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

Cook the Pasta:

1. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3. Add Vegetables:

1. In the same skillet, add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
2. Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally.

4. Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Vegetables:

1. Add the cooked penne pasta and the cooked shrimp back to the skillet with the vegetables.
2. Toss everything together until well combined.

5. Add Parmesan Cheese:

1. Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss until the cheese melts and coats the pasta and shrimp.

6. Adjust Seasoning:

• Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes at this point.

7. Garnish and Serve:

1. Garnish the dish with fresh basil or parsley.
2. Serve the Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach hot, and enjoy your flavorful and satisfying meal!

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables, adjusting the level of spiciness, or incorporating your favorite herbs and seasonings. Enjoy!