Lemony Shrimp and Bean Stew
The versatility of this recipe is its charm. Swap shrimp for flaky white fish or seared scallops, or transform it into a pasta-based feast. With minimal prep and pantry staples, you’ll have a dish that impresses with ease.
Ingredients
- Yield: 4 servings
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled, deveined, and tails removed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter ½ stick
- 2 large leeks halved lengthwise and sliced into ½-inch thick pieces (white and light green parts only) or 1 large onion, minced
- 1 15-ounce can cannellini beans, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest and 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sweet or smoked paprika
- 2 garlic cloves finely grated
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley optional
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Toasted bread for serving optional
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the lemon zest, paprika, grated garlic, ¾ teaspoon of salt, and ¾ teaspoon of pepper. Add the shrimp and toss thoroughly to coat.
- Sauté the Shrimp
- Heat the butter in a large pot over medium-high heat until it begins to foam. Add the shrimp, cooking and stirring occasionally until they turn pink and start to curl, about 2 to 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
- Prepare the Base
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the leeks to the same pot. Season with salt and pepper, then cook, stirring occasionally, until the leeks soften and develop a slight golden hue at the edges, approximately 4 to 5 minutes.
- Assemble the Stew
- Stir in the cannellini beans and stock, bringing the mixture to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 8 to 10 minutes. Return the cooked shrimp to the pot, along with any accumulated juices from the plate. Incorporate the lemon juice and parsley, then season to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve
- Ladle the stew into bowls and serve with toasted bread on the side, if desired.