Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew is a vibrant, comforting dish that combines tender shrimp with creamy white beans in a fragrant, lemony broth. Infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of spice, it’s a quick and nourishing meal that feels both light and satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining, this stew brings a fresh Mediterranean flair to your table.

ingredients

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

shrimp (peeled and deveined)white beans (canned or cooked)olive oiloniongarliclemons (juice and zest)vegetable or chicken brothfresh parsleycrushed red pepper flakesbay leafsalt and black pepper

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the white beans, bay leaf, broth, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes.

Simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Add the shrimp and cook for 3–5 minutes until they turn pink and are fully cooked.

Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Remove the bay leaf and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use cannellini, navy, or great northern beans depending on preference.

Add a handful of baby spinach or kale for extra greens.

Stir in a spoonful of harissa or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.

Serve over rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the broth.

Add diced tomatoes for a slightly richer base.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Avoid overcooking shrimp during reheating to keep them tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking.

What kind of beans work best?

Creamy white beans like cannellini, great northern, or navy beans are ideal.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

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

Is this stew spicy?

It has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, but you can adjust to taste.

Can I use lime instead of lemon?

Yes, lime adds a different but equally bright flavor.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, add them at the very end just to warm through.

Can I freeze this stew?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but the base can be frozen. Add fresh shrimp when reheating.

What’s the best broth to use?

Low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth works well and lets the lemon shine.

Can I add other seafood?

Yes, mussels or scallops can be great additions.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your broth is gluten-free.

Conclusion

Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew is a zesty, wholesome dish that comes together quickly yet delivers deep flavor and comfort. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a weeknight hero that brings brightness to your bowl. Try it once, and it might just earn a regular spot on your dinner table.