A luxurious and creamy dish that combines the delicate flavors of shrimp, crab, and spinach, this Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The richness of the cream and the savory seafood make this a satisfying meal that pairs wonderfully with pasta or rice.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 can crab meat
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream
2 cups fresh spinach
Salt and pepper to taste

Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Directions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.

Stir in the crab meat and minced garlic, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the creamy shrimp and crab mixture over pasta or rice, and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the shrimp and crab, and replace them with additional vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or artichokes.
Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a bit of heat.
Herbs: Add fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley to enhance the flavor.

Low-fat: Use half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative to reduce the richness of the dish while still maintaining a creamy texture.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat the dish in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warm. If the sauce thickens too much, you can add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it up.

10 FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
What type of crab meat should I use?
You can use canned crab meat, either lump or claw meat. Fresh or frozen crab meat can also be used, but make sure it’s cooked beforehand.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or almond milk, and skip the Parmesan cheese.

How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to taste for a spicy kick.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or peas to make the dish more colorful and nutritious.
What pasta pairs well with this recipe?
This dish pairs wonderfully with linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti. You can also serve it with rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Can I use a different type of seafood?
Yes, you can substitute the shrimp and crab with other seafood, such as scallops, lobster, or even mussels.
Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not ideal to freeze seafood dishes with cream, as the texture of the sauce may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored for a few days in the fridge.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, but it’s best to add the spinach and cook it just before serving to keep its texture.

Conclusion

This Creamy Shrimp and Crab Spinach is a quick and delicious dish that combines the richness of cream with the flavors of seafood and fresh spinach. With its easy preparation and versatility, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a flavorful dinner to impress guests. Whether served over pasta or rice, this creamy, savory dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.