Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew: A Fresh Twist on Comfort Food

A fresh and zesty lemony shrimp and bean stew packed with flavor and ready in 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew is the perfect combination of hearty and fresh, a meal that takes shrimp and beans and elevates them with the tangy brightness of lemon. This stew brings together the comfort of a creamy bean stew with the light, zesty touch of citrus, perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

Whether you’re looking to try something new for dinner, or you’re craving seafood with a Mediterranean twist, this stew offers an unforgettable balance of flavors.

Key Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. A few key ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry, come together to create a delicious meal:

• 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 can (15 oz) of white beans (cannellini beans work best), drained and rinsed
• 2–3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice (adjust to taste)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• ¼ cup of fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Possible Substitutions:

• If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the shrimp with firm tofu or tempeh.
• Substitute white beans with chickpeas for a different texture, or use a mix of beans for variety.
• Feel free to experiment with lime instead of lemon for a different citrusy note.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy kitchen gadgets to make this stew. A few basic tools will do the trick:

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Citrus juicer

Preparation Time

This stew is a great choice when you’re short on time but still want to prepare something wholesome and filling.

• Total time: 30 minutes
  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Pre-preparation

1. Peel and devein the shrimp if they’re not pre-prepped.
2. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley.
3. Drain and rinse the white beans.

Cooking

1. Heat the oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add beans and broth: Stir in the white beans and broth, bringing everything to a simmer. The beans will begin to soak up the flavors.
4. Add the shrimp: Stir in the shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
5. Finish with lemon: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Post-cooking

• Let the stew sit for a few minutes before serving. The broth will thicken slightly, making the stew even more satisfying.
• Serve warm with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a more substantial meal.

Tips and Tricks

• Lemon zest: For an extra hit of lemony flavor, add some lemon zest to the stew right before serving.
• Greens: Add a handful of spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Pairing: This stew pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or toasted garlic bread. You can also serve it with a chilled white wine for a complete Mediterranean dining experience.
• If you enjoy seafood recipes, you might want to try this Boom Boom Shrimp Recipe, which offers a spicier take on shrimp.

Nutritional Information

Here is a rough estimate of the nutritional content per serving:

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. Run them under cold water or let them thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

2. Can I make this stew in advance?

Yes! This stew stores well in the fridge. Make it a day ahead and simply reheat when you’re ready to eat. The flavors will have even more time to develop.

3. What can I serve with this stew?

You can pair the stew with a variety of sides such as crusty bread, a simple salad, or even rice. If you’re feeling creative, try serving it with this Perfect Lemon Posset for a lemony dessert to complement the meal.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. Freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to two months. To reheat, let the stew thaw in the fridge overnight before warming it up on the stovetop.

5. How do I adjust the flavor if the stew is too tart?

If you find the stew a bit too tart, you can add a small teaspoon of sugar or a splash of cream to balance the acidity.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat or use the microwave.

Conclusion

This lemony shrimp and bean stew is a quick, flavorful dish that marries the zesty brightness of lemon with the heartiness of beans and shrimp. It’s perfect for both seafood lovers and those who want a light yet satisfying meal. Whether you enjoy it on its own, with some garlic bread, or alongside a fresh salad, this stew is sure to become a household favorite.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations. If you love playing with flavors, check out more comforting bean dishes like this Creamy Butter Beans Recipe. Enjoy!