If you’re looking for a dish that is light, comforting, and packed with flavor, Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew is the perfect choice. This stew combines plump, juicy shrimp, creamy white beans, and a zesty lemon-infused broth, making it both nutritious and deeply satisfying.
Inspired by Mediterranean and coastal cuisines, this dish balances bright citrus notes, savory aromatics, and hearty legumes. It’s an excellent meal for any season—warm and cozy in the winter, yet light and refreshing in the summer. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner option.
In this article, we’ll cover:
✔ The origins and history of Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew
✔ Key ingredients and the best types of shrimp and beans to use
✔ A step-by-step recipe to make it at home
✔ Variations (spicy, creamy, vegetarian, and low-carb versions)
✔ Health benefits of shrimp, beans, and lemon
✔ Best side dishes to serve with it
✔ Common mistakes to avoid when making shrimp stew
The Origins of Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew
Mediterranean and Coastal Influences
Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew draws inspiration from Mediterranean and coastal cuisines, where seafood, citrus, and legumes are staple ingredients. Countries like Italy, Greece, Spain, and Portugal often use shrimp, beans, and bright citrus flavors in their dishes.
✔ Greek & Italian Influence: Mediterranean stews like Fasolada (Greek bean soup) and Tuscan seafood stews often feature white beans, olive oil, and lemon for a light yet hearty meal.
✔ Portuguese Caldeirada: A traditional Portuguese seafood stew that uses shrimp, fish, and a lemony broth.
✔ Spanish Gambas al Ajillo: While not a stew, this dish of garlic shrimp with lemon highlights the perfect pairing of seafood and citrus.
Why Lemon, Shrimp, and Beans Work Together
This dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures:
✔ Lemon adds brightness and enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp.
✔ Shrimp provides lean protein and a tender, juicy texture.
✔ Beans offer creaminess and fiber, making the stew satisfying.
✔ Aromatics (garlic, onions, herbs) bring depth and richness.
This combination makes Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew nourishing, comforting, and full of bold flavors.
Key Ingredients of Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew
Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew is all about fresh, simple ingredients that create a dish bursting with flavor. Let’s break down the essential components and how they contribute to the stew.
1. Shrimp – The Star Protein
✔ Use large shrimp (16-20 count) for the best texture.
✔ Peeled and deveined shrimp save prep time.
✔ Keep the tails on or off based on preference.
🔹 Substitutes: Scallops, cod, or clams if you prefer different seafood.
2. White Beans – The Hearty Base
✔ Cannellini beans – Creamy and mild, perfect for soaking up the broth.
✔ Great Northern beans – Slightly firmer but still mild in flavor.
✔ Chickpeas – A good alternative for extra texture.
🔹 Substitutes: Lentils for a different twist or omit for a low-carb version.
3. Lemon – The Bright, Citrusy Kick
✔ Fresh lemon juice and zest for maximum flavor.
✔ Adds acidity to balance richness and enhance the shrimp.
🔹 Substitutes: White wine vinegar or a splash of orange juice for a unique twist.
4. Aromatics – The Flavor Boosters
✔ Garlic & onions – The base for a deeply savory broth.
✔ Celery & carrots (optional) – Adds extra depth and natural sweetness.
🔹 Substitutes: Shallots for a milder onion flavor.
5. Broth – The Soul of the Stew
✔ Seafood broth – Enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
✔ Chicken or vegetable broth – Works well for a lighter option.
🔹 Substitutes: Bone broth for added protein or water with a splash of white wine.
6. Fresh Herbs & Seasonings
✔ Fresh parsley or dill – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
✔ Crushed red pepper flakes – A hint of spice for extra depth.
✔ Salt & black pepper – Essential for balancing flavors.
🔹 Substitutes: Thyme or oregano for a more Mediterranean touch.
7. Olive Oil – The Mediterranean Touch
✔ A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil enhances the stew’s richness.
✔ Used for sautéing aromatics and finishing the dish.
🔹 Substitutes: Butter for extra richness or avocado oil for a milder taste.
How to Make Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew at Home
Now that we know the key ingredients, let’s walk through a step-by-step recipe to create a bright, hearty, and flavorful Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew at home.
🍽 Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
For the Stew Base:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 celery stalk, diced (optional)
- 1 medium carrot, diced (optional)
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Broth:
- 4 cups seafood broth (or chicken/vegetable broth)
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for extra depth)
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For Garnish & Serving:
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- Lemon wedges (for extra brightness)
- Crusty bread or cooked rice (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
✔ Pro Tip: Cook the garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
Step 2: Build the Broth
- Pour in the seafood broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cannellini beans, paprika (if using), and lemon zest.
- Let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
✔ Pro Tip: If you want a thicker stew, mash some of the beans with a fork before adding them.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- While the broth simmers, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
- Transfer the shrimp to the pot with the broth.
✔ Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking the shrimp—they should be just cooked through for the best texture.
Step 4: Finish with Lemon & Herbs
- Stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley or dill.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon if needed.
- Let the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving.
✔ Pro Tip: A final drizzle of olive oil enhances the richness of the dish.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
✔ Ladle the stew into bowls and serve with crusty bread, rice, or couscous.
✔ Garnish with extra parsley, lemon wedges, and a drizzle of olive oil.
🌟 Pro Tips for the Best Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew
Use fresh lemon juice & zest for the best citrus flavor.
Don’t overcook the shrimp—add them at the end to keep them tender.
Mash some beans for a thicker, creamier broth.
Let the flavors meld—the stew tastes even better after resting for a few minutes.
Variations of Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew
Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew is versatile and customizable, allowing you to adjust it to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are some delicious variations to try!
Find out more about Tempura Shrimp.
1. Spicy Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew
✔ Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or 1 diced jalapeño for more heat.
✔ Stir in 1 tsp harissa paste or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
✔ Serve with spicy garlic bread or chili-infused olive oil.
👉 Best for: Those who love bold, fiery flavors!
🥛 2. Creamy Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew
✔ Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer broth.
✔ Mash ½ cup of the beans to naturally thicken the stew.
✔ Serve with crusty sourdough bread for dipping.
👉 Best for: Those who enjoy comforting, creamy soups!
3. Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew with Greens
✔ Add 2 cups of fresh spinach, kale, or Swiss chard in the last 5 minutes.
✔ Use vegetable broth instead of seafood broth for a lighter version.
✔ Top with a drizzle of lemony olive oil for a fresh finish.
👉 Best for: Those looking for a nutrient-packed, wholesome meal!
4. Mediterranean-Style Shrimp and Bean Stew
✔ Add ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers.
✔ Stir in 2 tbsp capers or olives for a salty, briny touch.
✔ Use feta cheese crumbles as a garnish for extra flavor.
👉 Best for: Those who love Mediterranean-inspired dishes!
5. Low-Carb & Keto Shrimp and Bean Stew
✔ Swap white beans for cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
✔ Use bone broth for extra protein and richness.
✔ Add extra shrimp for a more protein-focused meal.
👉 Best for: Those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet!
6. Tomato-Based Shrimp and Bean Stew
✔ Add 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes for a deeper, richer broth.
✔ Use roasted garlic and fresh basil for a flavor boost.
✔ Serve with parmesan cheese and toasted bread.
👉 Best for: Those who enjoy tomato-based seafood stews like cioppino!
7. Vegan Lemony Bean Stew (Without Shrimp)
✔ Swap shrimp for roasted chickpeas, mushrooms, or tofu.
✔ Use vegetable broth and coconut milk for a creamy, plant-based version.
✔ Garnish with extra lemon zest and fresh parsley for brightness.
👉 Best for: Those following a plant-based or vegetarian diet!
FAQs About Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew
1. Can I make Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew ahead of time?
Yes! This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. How do I reheat shrimp stew without overcooking the shrimp?
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
🔹 Pro Tip: If possible, remove the shrimp before reheating and add them back at the end to prevent overcooking.
3. Can I freeze Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew?
Yes, but freeze the broth and beans separately from the shrimp for best results.
- Store the broth + beans in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Add freshly cooked shrimp when reheating.
4. What’s the best shrimp to use for this stew?
✔ Large shrimp (16-20 count per pound) – Plump and juicy, ideal for stews.
✔ Wild-caught shrimp – More flavorful than farmed shrimp.
✔ Peeled and deveined – Saves prep time!
🔹 Avoid small shrimp, as they can overcook easily.
5. How do I thicken the stew?
✔ Mash some beans to create a naturally creamy texture.
✔ Simmer longer to reduce excess liquid.
✔ Add a splash of coconut milk or cream for extra richness.
6. What can I serve with Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew?
✔ Crusty bread – Perfect for soaking up the broth.
✔ Steamed rice, couscous, or quinoa – Adds extra heartiness.
✔ Roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad – A light and healthy side.
7. Can I make this stew spicy?
Yes! Try adding:
✔ Extra crushed red pepper flakes
✔ Diced jalapeños or chili oil
✔ A spoonful of harissa or hot sauce
Conclusion
Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew is a bright, comforting, and nourishing dish that’s perfect for any season. With its zesty citrus notes, tender shrimp, and creamy white beans, this stew is both light yet satisfying.
Whether you keep it classic, make it spicy, or try a creamy variation, this dish is easy to customize and incredibly delicious. Now that you have the perfect recipe, grab your ingredients and enjoy a bowl of flavorful, homemade Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew!
Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew
Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Ladle
Ingredients
Stew Base
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 stalk celery diced (optional)
- 1 medium carrot diced (optional)
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
Broth
- 4 cups seafood broth or chicken/vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans drained and rinsed
- 1 large lemon zest and juice
- ½ tsp paprika optional, for extra depth
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp 16-20 count, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Garnish & Serving
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or dill chopped
- lemon wedges for serving
- crusty bread or cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook until garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in the seafood broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add cannellini beans, paprika (if using), and lemon zest. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- While the broth simmers, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Transfer the cooked shrimp to the pot with the broth. Stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley or dill.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Let the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Ladle the stew into bowls and serve with crusty bread, rice, or couscous. Garnish with extra parsley, lemon wedges, and a drizzle of olive oil.