If you are craving a wholesome, vibrant meal that never feels heavy but always satisfies, this Shrimp and White Beans Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen rotation. It beautifully balances tender, juicy shrimp with creamy white beans, all uplifted by comforting garlic, smoked paprika, and a squeeze of fresh lemon. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining friends, this Mediterranean-inspired dish brings brightness, texture, and a pop of color to the table, making each bite a delightful experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to this dish’s incredible flavor. Each item plays an essential role, from the silky white beans adding creaminess to the shrimp’s delicate sweetness, while aromatic spices and fresh herbs tie everything together in a harmonious taste.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a rich base for sautéing and brings out the flavors of the shrimp and aromatics.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Fresh or thawed, shrimp offers a succulent protein that cooks quickly and absorbs spices beautifully.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic punch that complements the seafood perfectly.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth when softened in the skillet.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Gives just a hint of heat to brighten up the flavors without overpowering them.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Imparts a smoky, earthy note that elevates the dish’s character dramatically.
- 1 can (15 ounces) white beans (drained and rinsed): Cannellini or Great Northern beans make the meal hearty and creamy, perfectly balancing the shrimp.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Adds freshness, a juicy burst, and vibrant color to the plate.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Helps create a light sauce that binds all the flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brings zesty brightness that awakens the palate and complements seafood wonderfully.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the components.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped): Adds a fresh, herbal finish that makes the dish feel bright and inviting.
How to Make Shrimp and White Beans Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Shrimp
Start by warming the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add your peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. This quick sear locks in the seafood’s natural sweetness and ensures a tender bite. Once cooked, set the shrimp aside so they don’t overcook later.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and diced yellow onion. Sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and release their mouthwatering aromas. This step is crucial as it forms the fragrant base that will carry the rest of the dish’s flavors.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and smoked paprika. Stir and cook these spices for about 30 seconds to toast them lightly, which helps awaken their fragrance and depth, setting the tone for a perfectly balanced dish.
Step 4: Add Beans, Tomatoes, and Broth
Now it’s time to stir in your drained white beans, halved cherry tomatoes, and broth. Let this mixture simmer gently for 5 to 6 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken and for the tomatoes to soften. This melds the creaminess of the beans with the fresh acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
Step 5: Return Shrimp and Finish
Return the shrimp to the skillet, then stir in the fresh lemon juice. Cook everything together for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, just so the shrimp heat through and the citrus brightens the entire dish. Finish by seasoning to taste with salt and black pepper, and sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
How to Serve Shrimp and White Beans Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Shrimp and White Beans Recipe look even more inviting, fresh parsley is the go-to garnish. You might also add a few lemon wedges on the side to allow guests to squeeze extra brightness onto their plates. A drizzle of good olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can make the dish feel even more special.
Side Dishes
This dish is fabulous served on a bed of fluffy couscous or steamed rice, soaking up every bit of the flavorful sauce. If you want to keep things simple, serve with thick slices of crusty bread so everyone can scoop up those comforting beans and shrimp. Roasted or sautéed greens like spinach or kale would also complement the meal perfectly by adding a tender, earthy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a lovely one-pot presentation, serve the shrimp and white beans straight from the skillet placed on a trivet at the table—family-style dining at its best. Alternatively, spoon it into shallow bowls and top with microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant touch that’ll impress without extra fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this Shrimp and White Beans Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The shrimp and beans hold their flavor well, making it a great option for easy next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
While the beans freeze nicely, shrimp can sometimes become rubbery after freezing, so it’s best to freeze this dish only if you plan to reheat it gently or use it quickly. If freezing, place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month for optimal taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Adding a splash of broth or water while warming helps maintain the sauce’s silky texture and keeps everything moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp and White Beans Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works perfectly as long as you thaw them completely before cooking. This ensures they cook evenly and stay tender.
What type of white beans is best for this recipe?
Cannellini, Great Northern, or navy beans all work wonderfully. Just make sure to drain and rinse canned beans well to avoid excess saltiness.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this Shrimp and White Beans Recipe is naturally gluten-free and makes a fantastic option for anyone avoiding gluten thanks to its simple, wholesome ingredients.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Of course! Adding greens like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking or even diced zucchini can make this meal even more nutrient-packed and colorful.
What wine pairs well with Shrimp and White Beans Recipe?
A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the fresh flavors and smoky paprika nicely, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp and White Beans Recipe is one of those satisfying dishes that feels simple but tastes incredibly special every time. It’s a perfect weeknight winner that you can make with confidence, whether feeding yourself or a group of friends. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for these flavors again and again. So roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a beautiful, delicious Mediterranean-style meal that feels like a warm hug on the plate.
Print
Shrimp and White Beans Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Shrimp and White Beans recipe is a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. Featuring tender shrimp sautéed with garlic, onion, smoked paprika, and creamy white beans simmered with cherry tomatoes and broth, it’s both comforting and nutritious. Serve it over rice, couscous, or with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Vegetables & Herbs
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
Pantry Items & Spices
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 can (15 ounces) white beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Spices: Stir in red pepper flakes (if using) and smoked paprika. Cook for 30 seconds to release their flavors.
- Combine Beans and Tomatoes: Add the drained and rinsed white beans, halved cherry tomatoes, and low-sodium broth to the skillet. Simmer the mixture for 5–6 minutes until it slightly thickens.
- Finish the Dish: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stir in the lemon juice, and cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Season and Garnish: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Delicious served over rice, couscous, or with crusty bread.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine during the simmer step.
- You can substitute cannellini, navy, or Great Northern beans as alternatives.
