When it comes to comfort food, we often think of rich, heavy dishes that leave us needing a nap. But Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew flips the script. It’s cozy and satisfying, yet light and refreshing—bursting with citrus, herbs, and the briny sweetness of shrimp. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for spring and summer, but equally welcome during colder months when you’re craving something nourishing without the weight.
In this article, we’ll explore what makes this stew a standout, how to prepare it step by step, nutritional highlights, and elegant ways to serve and adapt it to your preferences.
Why You’ll Love Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew
This stew is a celebration of contrast: the earthiness of beans, the freshness of lemon, the silkiness of olive oil, and the tender bite of shrimp. It’s a one-pot meal that delivers big flavor with minimal fuss, and it can be on the table in under 40 minutes.
Here’s why it’s worth making:
- Bright Flavor: Fresh lemon juice and zest make this stew sing.
- Nutritious and Light: Packed with protein and fiber but low in saturated fat.
- Quick and Easy: Comes together fast with pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
- Versatile: Easy to make dairy-free, gluten-free, or pescatarian-friendly.
Ingredients
Serves 4
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for depth)
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable or seafood broth
- ¾ pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: red pepper flakes, extra lemon wedges, crusty bread
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Instructions
1. Sauté aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and smoked paprika (if using), and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add beans and broth
Stir in the white beans and pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Add shrimp
Add the shrimp to the pot and simmer for 4–5 minutes, or until they’re pink and opaque. Don’t overcook—shrimp can become rubbery if left too long.
4. Finish with lemon and herbs
Turn off the heat and stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh parsley. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot
Ladle into bowls and garnish with red pepper flakes or extra lemon zest for brightness. Serve with crusty bread for dipping or a light green salad on the side.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values:
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sodium: 620mg
This dish is high in lean protein and fiber, making it satisfying without being heavy. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free without any substitutions.
Presentation Tips
- Bright Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley, lemon zest, or microgreens for a fresh look.
- Serve in Shallow Bowls: Use wide-rimmed bowls to showcase the colorful broth and plump shrimp.
- Pair It Well: Offer lemon wedges, a drizzle of good olive oil, and a piece of crusty artisan bread for the perfect finish.
For a more elevated meal, serve the stew alongside a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a lemony white sangria.
Customizations and Variations
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Add spinach or kale at the end for a nutritional boost.
- Spice It Up: Stir in a bit of harissa paste or chili oil for heat.
- Change the Protein: Substitute shrimp with chunks of firm white fish, scallops, or even grilled chicken for a different twist.
- Use Dried Beans: If you prefer cooking from scratch, use cooked dried beans instead of canned—just allow extra prep time.
This recipe adapts well to different diets and seasonal produce, making it a great go-to meal year-round.
Final Thoughts
Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew is a dish that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy. With its vibrant citrus notes, tender shrimp, and hearty beans, it’s a nourishing meal that feels both luxurious and simple. Best of all, it comes together quickly and relies on pantry staples with just a few fresh additions.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, hosting a light spring lunch, or just looking for something new to add to your rotation, this stew brings elegance and ease to the table.
So grab your lemon, prep your shrimp, and enjoy a bowlful of brightness. One taste, and it might just become your new favorite stew.