Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew
Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew is a bright, citrusy, and comforting dish packed with plump shrimp, creamy white beans, and a lemon-infused broth. Inspired by Mediterranean and coastal cuisines, this stew is light yet satisfying.
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.
Notes
For best results, use fresh lemon juice and zest. Avoid overcooking the shrimp—add them at the end to keep them tender. Mash some beans for a thicker, creamier broth.