Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew is a bright, hearty, and satisfying dish that brings together succulent shrimp, creamy white beans, and a citrusy broth infused with garlic and herbs. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and freshness, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a light yet flavorful meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

shrimp (peeled and deveined)
white beans (cannellini or great northern, drained and rinsed)
olive oil
garlic cloves
onion
vegetable or chicken broth
lemon zest and juice
fresh parsley
crushed red pepper flakes
salt
black pepper

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.

Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute.

Add the white beans and broth to the pot and bring to a simmer.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Add shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3–5 minutes.

Stir in lemon zest and juice, then remove from heat.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add baby spinach or kale at the end for extra greens.
Use lime instead of lemon for a slightly different citrus note.
Add chopped tomatoes for a heartier stew.
Use smoked paprika or cumin for a different depth of flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Avoid overcooking the shrimp during reheating to prevent toughness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but they must be cooked beforehand, which will increase total prep time.

Is this stew spicy?

It has a slight kick from the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust or omit them.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can make the base ahead, but add the shrimp just before serving for best texture.

What’s the best type of beans to use?

Cannellini or great northern beans work best for their creamy texture.

Can I add other seafood?

Yes, scallops or chunks of firm white fish are great additions.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

What kind of broth is best?

Vegetable or chicken broth both work well—choose based on your dietary needs.

Can I freeze this stew?

Freezing is not recommended due to shrimp texture changes.

Does lemon overpower the dish?

No, it adds a refreshing brightness that balances the richness of the beans and shrimp.

Conclusion

Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew is a quick, nourishing, and flavorful meal that feels both light and comforting. With its citrusy zing and protein-packed ingredients, it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner lineup. Perfect for busy nights or when you crave something vibrant and satisfying.

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