Did you know a simple lemony shrimp and bean stew can get 1.5K shares on social media? This dish from the Mediterranean isn’t just popular online; it’s loved by many in America. I’m excited to share this favorite that mixes the best of shrimp and bean recipes into one amazing pot.
This one-pot meal is ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. With 335 calories per serving, it’s a healthy choice that’s full of flavor. The zesty lemon broth, tender shrimp, and hearty beans make a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. It’s great for any season.
As we explore Mediterranean cuisine, I’ll show you how to make this lemony shrimp and bean stew. We’ll pick the right shrimp and get the broth just right. Let’s start this tasty journey together!
The Magic of Mediterranean-Inspired Stews
Mediterranean-inspired stews add warmth and comfort to any meal. They mix rich flavors with healthy ingredients. The Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew is a great example of this.
The Perfect Balance of Seafood and Legumes
This seafood stew is a perfect mix. It uses 30 large shrimp and two 15-ounce cans of cannellini beans. This makes a filling yet light meal. The shrimp adds a soft flavor, and the beans make it creamy.
Health Benefits of Combining Shrimp and Beans
This stew is very nutritious. Each serving has 9 grams of protein and 8 grams of fiber. The shrimp gives lean protein, and the beans offer complex carbs. This mix helps muscles and digestion.
Why One-Pot Meals are Perfect for Busy Weeknights
One-pot meals are great for weeknights. This stew is ready in 30 minutes, with only 10 minutes of prep. It’s quick, easy, and keeps your meal nutritious and tasty.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 191 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
Essential Ingredients for Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew
I love making this comforting one-pot meal. The secret to its success is in the ingredients. Let’s explore what makes it so tasty.
Selecting and Preparing the Shrimp
I use 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp for this recipe. Frozen shrimp are convenient and work well. If frozen, thaw them in the fridge for 8-12 hours or quickly in cold water.
Choosing the Right White Beans
White beans are key for this stew. I choose a 15-ounce can of butter beans, drained and rinsed. They make the stew creamy and flavorful.
Fresh Aromatics and Citrus Components
The zesty flavors come from lemon zest and juice. I also add garlic and shallots for depth. Sweet paprika gives it a subtle kick.
Stock Options and Flavor Enhancers
I start with 2 cups of reduced-sodium chicken stock. For richness, I add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. A splash of shrimp stock adds seafood flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1 lb | $6.47 |
| Butter Beans | 2 cans | $1.72 |
| Chicken Broth | 3 cups | $0.24 |
| Lemon | 1/2 | $0.68 |
With these ingredients, you can make a flavorful and satisfying lemony shrimp and bean stew. It serves 3-4 people.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
I start by mixing lemon zest, paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. This mix coats the shrimp, adding flavor. Then, I heat a large pot over medium-high heat and melt butter until it foams.
When the butter is ready, I add shrimp to the pot. Shrimp cook quickly, in about 2 to 3 minutes. I stir them occasionally, looking for the pink color and slight curl that means they’re done.
After removing the shrimp, I sauté leeks and fennel in olive oil for 5-7 minutes. This makes a tasty base for our stew. Then, I add white beans, which add protein and fiber.
The last step is to mix all ingredients together in the pot. This lets the flavors blend. The whole process takes under 30 minutes, making it great for a weeknight dinner. I often serve it with crusty bread or quinoa for extra nutrition.
| Ingredient | Cook Time | Nutritional Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp | 2-3 minutes | 30g protein per 10 large shrimp |
| White Beans | 7 minutes (pre-soaked) | 15g protein, 15g fiber per cup |
| Leeks and Fennel | 5-7 minutes | Rich in vitamins and minerals |
Mastering the Perfect Broth Consistency
Making a rich, flavorful broth is essential for a tasty shrimp and bean stew. I’ll share my tips for getting the right texture and balancing flavors.
Achieving the Ideal Texture
Begin by sautéing a yellow onion with salt and pepper. This is the base of your broth. Then, add leeks and cook until they’re soft, about 4-5 minutes.
Next, add beans and chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, then simmer for 8-10 minutes. This step blends flavors and thickens the broth.
Balancing Citrus and Seasoning
To brighten the stew, add a splash of lemon juice. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away.
Tips for Rich and Flavorful Stock
For more flavor, use homemade shrimp stock. Simmer shrimp shells in water with celery and carrots for 1-2 hours. This makes a flavorful base for your stew.
When ready to serve, gently fold in the reserved shrimp. This prevents them from getting overcooked.
- Use a mirepoix base (50% onion, 25% carrots, 25% celery) for depth
- Simmer for longer to enhance flavors
- Add fresh herbs for brightness without extra fat
- Cut vegetables in similar sizes for even cooking
By following these tips, you’ll make a perfectly balanced, flavorful shrimp and bean stew. It’s sure to impress.
Serving Suggestions and Wine Pairings
Make your meal special with these tips for our Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew. I’ve put together a guide to pair and present this dish perfectly.
Complementary Side Dishes
Pair the stew with crusty toasted bread to enjoy the flavorful broth. A simple salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette is great too. It balances the stew’s richness.
Wine Selection Guide
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc is perfect for this dish. Its acidity complements the lemon without overpowering the shrimp. Choose a wine with herbal or mineral notes to match the creamy beans. Wines from New Zealand or Loire Valley are great options.
Garnishing Tips for Presentation
Make your stew look good with the right garnishes. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for color and flavor. Add a lemon wedge for diners to adjust the citrus. For elegance, drizzle high-quality olive oil just before serving.
| Garnish | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Fresh parsley | Adds color and fresh flavor |
| Lemon wedge | Allows for flavor adjustment |
| Olive oil drizzle | Enhances richness and presentation |
Follow these tips to make a memorable meal with your Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew.
Conclusion
I’ve explored the world of lemony shrimp and bean stew. It’s a mix of Mediterranean flavors and modern cooking. This recipe shows how simple ingredients can make something amazing. It’s quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
This stew is not just tasty, but also full of nutrients. It has lean protein from shrimp and plant-based protein from beans. The beans also add a lot of fiber, making it good for your gut. Adding fresh herbs and greens boosts the antioxidants and vitamins without adding too many calories.
Getting this stew right is all about the details. Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and juicy in 1-2 minutes. Start with one lemon’s juice and adjust to taste. If using canned beans, rinse them well to cut down on sodium. These steps will make your stew truly great.
I suggest you try this dish and make it your own. It’s perfect for a cozy night or a casual dinner party. This stew is a delicious mix of flavors that’s great all year round. It shows that comfort food can be both healthy and tasty.
FAQ – Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew
What makes this lemony shrimp and bean stew a Mediterranean-inspired dish?
This stew is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. It combines seafood (shrimp) and legumes (white beans). It also uses fresh aromatics and citrus flavors. These elements make the dish flavorful and nutritious.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Thaw them first and pat dry to remove moisture. This helps them cook evenly and prevents the stew from getting watery.
What type of white beans work best for this stew?
Cannellini beans are great for this stew because of their creamy texture and mild flavor. You can also use Great Northern or navy beans. Choose a bean that stays firm but adds to the stew’s creamy texture.
How long does it take to cook this lemony shrimp and bean stew?
Cooking this stew takes about 30-40 minutes. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Most time is spent building flavors in the broth, with the shrimp cooking quickly at the end.
What’s the best way to achieve a rich, flavorful broth?
Start by sautéing onions and garlic in butter or olive oil. Use quality chicken or seafood stock as the base. Add the flavorful juices from the cooked shrimp. Simmering the stew melds the flavors. A squeeze of lemon juice and zest brightens the dish.
What are some good side dishes to serve with this stew?
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the broth. A light green salad or steamed vegetables are also good. For something heartier, try it over rice or with roasted potatoes.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
You can prepare most of the stew ahead of time. Cook the broth and beans first, then reheat and add the shrimp just before serving. This keeps the shrimp tender and prevents overcooking.
What wine pairs well with lemony shrimp and bean stew?
A crisp white wine pairs well. Try a Sauvignon Blanc or an unoaked Chardonnay. Their citrusy notes enhance the lemon flavors. For red wine fans, a light-bodied Pinot Noir works too.
How can I adjust the recipe if I’m cooking for a crowd?
To make more, just double or triple the ingredients. Make sure your pot is big enough and adjust cooking times. Cook the shrimp in batches to ensure even cooking.
Are there any vegetarian alternatives to this stew?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, use firm tofu or extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Use vegetable stock and add smoked paprika for a seafood-like flavor.
