Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach

This Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach is the ultimate seafood lover’s dish, featuring tender shrimp and crab in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce with fresh spinach. The natural sweetness of the seafood pairs beautifully with the earthy spinach, while the cream sauce provides a luxurious texture that ties it all together. It's quick to prepare, making it a fantastic option for an elegant meal at home.

INGREDIENTS

• Shrimp: ½ pound, peeled and deveined, sautéed until pink and tender
• Crab meat: ½ pound, added to the creamy sauce for sweetness
• Butter: 2 tbsp, used to sauté the garlic and onion
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, to add flavor to the sauce
• Onion: 1 small, finely diced, for sweetness and texture
• Fresh spinach: 2 cups, wilted in the sauce
• Heavy cream: 1 cup, to create a rich, creamy sauce
• Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup, grated, to thicken the sauce and add flavor
• Nutmeg (optional): ¼ tsp, to enhance the flavor
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the dish
• Olive oil: 1 tbsp, to sauté the shrimp
• Fresh parsley: For garnish, to add freshness and color

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Heat olive oil in a pan, season shrimp with salt and pepper, and sauté for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink. Remove and set aside.

Step 2:

In the same pan, melt butter and add garlic and onion. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3:

Add spinach to the pan and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

Step 4:

Pour in heavy cream and add Parmesan cheese, simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 5:

Gently fold in the crab meat and cooked shrimp, stirring until well combined.

Step 6:

Season with nutmeg (optional), salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 7:

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over rice, pasta, or on its own as a side dish.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve the dish immediately for the best flavor and texture.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Helpful Notes

• You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you prefer a lighter sauce.
• Feel free to use pre-cooked crab meat to save time.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they should be tender, not rubbery.

Perfect for a Luxurious Weeknight Dinner

This Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach is quick and easy to make, but the rich flavors and textures make it feel like a special meal. The combination of fresh seafood and creamy Parmesan sauce creates a satisfying dish that pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or even as a side dish for a larger meal.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

Can I substitute a different type of cheese?

Yes, Romano or Asiago cheese can be used instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat it just before serving.

What sides go well with this dish?

This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad.

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Conclusion

Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach is a delectable dish that blends the natural sweetness of shrimp and crab with the vibrant flavor of spinach, all wrapped in a luscious Parmesan sauce. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant enough for special occasions. The shrimp is quickly sautéed to perfection, and the spinach is gently wilted in the same pan, absorbing the flavors of garlic and onion. Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese combine to create a rich and creamy sauce that ties everything together. Whether served over pasta, rice, or on its own, this dish is sure to impress!