This zesty Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew is a bright and tasty dish! Juicy shrimp dance with tender beans in a flavorful broth that gives every bite a refreshing kick.
When I make this stew, it feels like a sunny day in a bowl! I love pairing it with crusty bread to mop up every drop. Who can resist a meal that’s both delicious and easy? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp brings a sweet flavor and tender texture. If fresh isn’t available, frozen shrimp works well too! Just thaw them before use. You can also substitute shrimp with firm fish like cod or even chicken for a different taste.
Cannellini Beans: These beans add creaminess and heartiness to the stew. If you can’t find them, you can use navy beans or great northern beans instead. You can even swap them out for chickpeas, which will give a different twist!
Onion: A medium onion gives great flavor. If you’re short on time, use a shallot for a milder taste or skip it if you’re looking for something lighter. Don’t be afraid to experiment with red onions, too!
Broth: Vegetable or chicken broth adds depth. Homemade is lovely, but store-bought works fine! For a lighter option, use water with a splash of soy sauce or miso paste for flavor.
Lemon: Both zest and juice give a fresh pop. If you’re out of lemons, lime juice or even vinegar can add a tangy flavor. When possible, use fresh citrus for the best taste!
How Do I Sauté Onions and Garlic Perfectly?
Sautéing onions and garlic properly sets the foundation for your stew. It adds a lovely depth of flavor. Here are some simple tips:
- Heat your oil on medium heat. This prevents burning and allows the onions to soften nicely.
- Add the onions first and cook until they’re translucent (about 5 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Once they look good, add the minced garlic. Garlic cooks quickly—just 1 minute is enough!
- Remember, if either starts to brown too much, lower the heat a bit.
By following these steps, your stew will have a great base full of flavors to build upon!
How to Make Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cannellini beans (canned, drained and rinsed)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful stew takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll be enjoying a delicious, hearty meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Base:
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
2. Add Flavor:
Once the onion is soft, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook it for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant—your kitchen will start to smell amazing! Then, sprinkle in the paprika and red pepper flakes (if you want some heat) and cook for 30 seconds more, stirring everything together.
3. Build the Stew:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Now, add the rinsed cannellini beans and stir well to combine. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes to warm up the beans and infuse all those flavors.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Gently add the shrimp to the pot, squeezing in the juice from the lemon and adding the lemon zest for that fresh zing. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked.
5. Finish and Serve:
Remove the pot from heat and stir in chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness. Serve your delicious stew hot, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges on the side if you’d like. Enjoy every warm, flavorful bite!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before adding to the stew. The best way to thaw is by placing them in the fridge overnight or quickly submerging them in cold water in a sealed bag for about 15-20 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Cannellini Beans?
If you don’t have cannellini beans, white kidney beans or even chickpeas would work well. Just ensure they are canned, drained, and rinsed, so they blend smoothly with the stew’s flavors.
How to Store Leftover Stew?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge before warming gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen up the stew.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Stew?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, kale, or diced tomatoes would enhance both flavor and nutrition. Just toss them into the pot after adding the beans and adjust the simmering time to allow the veggies to cook through before adding the shrimp.
