What cookware works best?

Use a wide skillet and avoid crowding so the recipe cooks evenly.

How do I know it is done?

Follow the recipe timing, then check the main ingredient for tenderness, bubbling, browning, or safe doneness before serving.

Can I adjust the seasoning?

Yes. Taste near the end and adjust salt, acid, herbs, or heat in small amounts.

Back to Recipes

Skillet Meals

Skillet Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach and Tomatoes

Name: Skillet Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach and Tomatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved; 5 cups fresh baby spinach; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Lemon wedges, for serving

By PanPotPlates Test KitchenReviewed by PanPotPlates Editorial TeamPublished Apr 8, 2026 · Updated May 11, 2026

Mediterranean 20 mins quickeasyhealthyfamily-friendlyglutenfreedairyfreehighproteinweeknightflavorfullightonepanskilletlemon garlic shrimpMediterranean shrimp recipehealthy shrimp dinner

A vibrant one-pan Mediterranean skillet dish featuring tender lemon garlic shrimp, fresh spinach, and sweet cherry tomatoes cooked together in under 20 minutes. This healthy, gluten-free, and dairy-free recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners with family.

Skillet Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach and Tomatoes

Prep 10 min

Cook 10 min

Total 20 min

Servings 4

Difficulty easy

Cuisine Mediterranean

Ingredients

Servings 4

1 lb (450g) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
5 cups fresh baby spinach
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Lemon wedges, for serving

Ingredients for Skillet Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach and Tomatoes

Instructions

Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and golden.
Add the raw shrimp in a single layer, cooking for 2-3 minutes on one side until pink and just starting to curl. Flip shrimp and cook another 2 minutes until opaque and fully cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and juices release.
Add fresh baby spinach to the skillet, stirring until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss with the spinach and tomatoes.
Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Heat through for an additional 1 minute.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for extra brightness.

Skillet Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach and Tomatoes cooking in the recommended pan or pot

Tips

Pan Or Pot Required

For this vibrant and quick Skillet Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach and Tomatoes , a large skillet is essential to deliver authentic Mediterranean flavors in just one pan.

Cookware Size Guidance

To prepare Skillet Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach and Tomatoes , select a skillet of approximately 10 to 12 inches in diameter.

Cookware Swap Guidance

ecipe, you can use alternative cookware that still maintains the dish’s quick, easy, and healthy qualities: Sauté Pan or Frying Pan: Choose a wide, flat-bottomed pan with sloped sides to allow easy stirring and even heat.

Leftovers Quality

Reheat gently and add a splash of liquid when needed to keep the texture moist and tender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Skillet Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach and Tomatoes ahead?: Yes. Prep the ingredients or cook the full dish ahead, then reheat gently so the texture stays close to freshly made.
What cookware works best?: Use a wide skillet and avoid crowding so the recipe cooks evenly.
How do I know it is done?: Follow the recipe timing, then check the main ingredient for tenderness, bubbling, browning, or safe doneness before serving.
Can I adjust the seasoning?: Yes. Taste near the end and adjust salt, acid, herbs, or heat in small amounts.

You can customize the Skillet Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach and Tomatoes based on your preferences or ingredient availability while keeping the recipe quick, healthy, and flavorful:

Shrimp: Substitute with peeled and deveined chicken breast strips for a lean protein alternative or firm tofu cubes for a plant-based high-protein option.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Avocado oil or light vegetable oil works well to maintain a healthy fat profile.
Garlic: Use garlic powder if fresh garlic is unavailable, though fresh imparts superior flavor and aroma.
Cherry Tomatoes: Swap for grape tomatoes or chopped sun-dried tomatoes to add seasonal or more intense flavor nuances.
Baby Spinach: Consider kale or Swiss chard as heartier greens; extend sauté time slightly to properly wilt.
Lemon: Lime juice provides a bright citrus alternative for a different twist.
Red Pepper Flakes: Omit for no heat or replace with sweet paprika for subtle smoky depth.
Fresh Parsley: Swap with fresh basil or cilantro to vary herbal aroma according to your family’s taste.

Storage and Reheating

Cool Skillet Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach and Tomatoes before storing. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freeze portions for longer storage when the ingredients are freezer-friendly. Reheat gently with a splash of liquid if the dish looks dry.

Read related air fryer guides and cooking tips.

More Recipes

Explore more recipes you may like.

Reviews

Rate this recipe and share a photo of your result.

No reviews yet.

Skillet Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach and Tomatoes

Recipe Details

Ingredients

Instructions