Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew

This Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew is a bright and warming Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings together tender shrimp, creamy cannellini beans, aromatic herbs, and a citrusy zing. It’s a one-pot meal that’s both light and satisfying ideal for weeknights when you want something wholesome yet packed with flavor.

Perfectly spiced with paprika and garlic, balanced by the acidity of lemon and tomatoes, this stew layers depth and freshness. Pair it with crusty bread or serve it solo for a gluten-free, protein-rich meal. It’s a breeze to cook and even easier to love.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 (14 oz / 400 g) can diced tomatoes

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 cup seafood or chicken broth

• 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.

3. Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.

5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, thyme, oregano, and broth. Bring to a simmer.

6. Add the cannellini beans and simmer gently for 10 minutes to blend flavors.

7. Season shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper, then add to the pot. Cook for 3–4 minutes or until shrimp are pink and opaque.

8. Stir in the lemon juice and zest. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

9. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 305 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

When it comes to heartwarming, one-pot meals that pack bold flavors and nourishing ingredients, few recipes can compete with the brilliance of Lemony Shrimp and White Bean Stew. Inspired by Mediterranean coastal cooking, this dish combines succulent shrimp, creamy cannellini beans, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a vibrant lemon-garlic broth that feels both comforting and invigorating. It’s the kind of meal that tastes like it simmered all day, yet comes together quickly making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend lunch.

A Mediterranean Masterpiece in a Bowl

Mediterranean cuisine is celebrated for its ability to blend robust flavors with wholesome ingredients. This shrimp stew embodies that spirit perfectly. The sweetness of shrimp, richness of white beans, and the tang of lemon come together in perfect harmony. Garlic and olive oil two foundational pillars of Mediterranean cooking lay the aromatic groundwork, while cherry tomatoes add both acidity and a touch of natural sweetness.

What sets this stew apart from other shrimp dishes is its versatility. It’s light enough to be enjoyed year-round but hearty enough to satisfy during the colder months. Whether you serve it with crusty bread, over rice, or with a side salad, it brings a touch of seaside warmth to any table.

Why This Dish Works So Well

At the heart of this recipe is its ability to balance flavor, texture, and nutrition. The shrimp provide lean protein, while the white beans add fiber and creaminess without the need for heavy cream or thickeners. The lemon brightens the whole dish, ensuring that it never feels too heavy.

The garlic, cooked gently in olive oil, infuses the base with warmth and aroma, transforming a few pantry staples into a deeply flavorful stew. As the cherry tomatoes burst during cooking, they release juices that blend beautifully with the broth, enhancing the stew’s natural sweetness and depth.

The addition of red chili flakes gives just a touch of heat, while chopped fresh parsley or dill brings a final flourish of freshness. Together, these elements create a layered flavor profile that tastes far more complex than the simple ingredients suggest.

Nutrition Meets Flavor

One of the most appealing aspects of Lemony Shrimp and White Bean Stew is its nutritional value. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free as well. Shrimp is a lean source of protein and a good source of selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. The white beans provide complex carbohydrates, fiber, and plant-based protein, making this dish both filling and nourishing.

Unlike many creamy stews that rely on butter, flour, or cream, this one leans on olive oil and the starch from the beans to provide body. It’s a brilliant way to create a silky texture without adding extra calories or sacrificing nutritional quality.

Perfect for Entertaining or Quick Weeknight Meals

Another reason this recipe has become a favorite is its flexibility. It’s impressive enough to serve at a dinner party especially if you garnish it with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a few sprigs of herbs but also quick enough to make on a busy weekday evening.

You don’t need any special tools or hard-to-find ingredients. Most of what you need is likely already in your pantry or freezer. And because it’s a one-pot recipe, cleanup is minimal, which is always a plus.

If you’re hosting a Mediterranean-inspired dinner, this stew pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, grilled flatbread, or a bright arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. For a more rustic presentation, serve the stew in individual bowls with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of sea salt just before serving.

Make It Your Own

This dish is endlessly adaptable. Don’t like white beans? Try chickpeas or butter beans. Prefer a spicier kick? Add more red chili flakes or a spoonful of harissa. Want to bulk it up for a heartier meal? Add diced potatoes or stir in some cooked pasta or orzo.

You can also swap out the shrimp for another protein. Scallops or chunks of firm white fish like cod or halibut work beautifully in this stew. Vegetarians can omit the shrimp entirely and use vegetable broth, adding extra beans or sautéed mushrooms to keep it satisfying.

Fresh herbs like basil, dill, parsley, or even mint can each bring a different nuance to the final flavor. A spoonful of Greek yogurt or a swirl of tahini can add creaminess. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how easy it is to customize.

A Global Flare with Local Appeal

While the dish has Mediterranean roots, its appeal is universal. Shrimp and beans are used in cuisines across the globe—from Brazilian moquecas to Cajun-style stews. What makes this version stand out is its lemony brightness and light texture. It doesn’t rely on long cooking or complicated spices, but still manages to feel special and elevated.

This stew also works across seasons. In summer, it’s a light meal served with grilled corn or a crisp white wine. In winter, it’s a soul-warming bowl of comfort served with buttery toast or even polenta. It’s the kind of recipe that makes it into your regular rotation because it suits so many occasions and moods.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

If you’re cooking for two or meal prepping for the week, Lemony Shrimp and White Bean Stew keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container and gently reheat on the stove over medium heat. Be cautious not to overcook the shrimp during reheating, as they can become rubbery.

To save time during weeknights, prep the base in advance cook the garlic, tomatoes, and beans together, then refrigerate. When ready to eat, simply reheat the base and add fresh shrimp for a quick and easy finish.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Bowl

• Serve with crusty sourdough bread for dipping
• Add a poached egg on top for a brunch twist
• Stir in a spoonful of basil pesto or gremolata before serving
• Pair with a dry rosé or crisp Sauvignon Blanc
• Serve over a bed of rice, farro, or couscous for extra heartiness
• Garnish with microgreens, lemon zest, or toasted breadcrumbs for texture

Conclusion: A Staple Worth Repeating

Lemony Shrimp and White Bean Stew is more than just a recipe it’s a celebration of simple ingredients made extraordinary with thoughtful preparation. It brings together the warmth of a home-cooked meal with the elegance of Mediterranean flavors. Quick to prepare, deeply satisfying, and endlessly adaptable, this dish is destined to become a regular on your table.

Whether you’re looking for a weeknight winner, a wholesome lunch, or an impressive dinner-party starter, this stew delivers. And with every spoonful, it reminds you that good food doesn’t need to be complicated to be memorable.