Bright, zesty, and packed with protein, our Lemony Shrimp and Beans recipe is a refreshing twist on a classic seafood dish. Combining succulent shrimp with tender beans and a burst of lemony flavor, it’s a perfect meal for those who crave something light yet satisfying. This dish brings together simple ingredients that deliver big on taste and nutrition.
Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, this recipe is easy to prepare and makes a great weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. We love how the tangy lemon elevates the shrimp while the beans add a creamy texture that balances the dish perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this vibrant recipe is sure to impress and keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients
To create our Lemony Shrimp and Beans dish, we carefully select fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together for a bright, zesty flavor and satisfying texture. Below is everything we need to prepare this protein-packed, Mediterranean-inspired recipe.
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Beans
- 2 cups cooked cannellini beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Lemony Sauce
- Juice of 2 large lemons (about ¼ cup)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley sprigs for a herbal brightness
- Lemon wedges to add extra zing at the table
- Crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat
- Grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish
| Ingredient Group | Key Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1 lb shrimp, olive oil, garlic | Use fresh shrimp if possible |
| Beans | 2 cups cannellini beans, onion | Canned beans can save time |
| Lemony Sauce | Lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard | Balances tartness and creaminess |
| Garnishes | Parsley, lemon wedges, pepper flakes | Optional but highly recommended |
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Lemony Shrimp and Beans recipe efficiently, having the right equipment is essential. This ensures each step flows smoothly and the dish turns out perfectly balanced in flavor and texture.
- Large skillet or sauté pan
We use this to cook the shrimp and to gently sauté the onion and beans. A wide pan helps spread heat evenly, allowing the shrimp to sear nicely while the beans warm through without breaking apart.
- Medium mixing bowl
Perfect for whisking together the zesty lemon sauce, combining lemon juice, zest, Dijon mustard, honey, and extra virgin olive oil to bind the flavors harmoniously.
- Sharp chef’s knife
Precision is key when slicing garlic, lemon zest, and chopping fresh parsley. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts that release flavors effectively.
- Cutting board
Use a stable cutting surface to prep garlic, onion, and lemon for zesting and juicing.
- Citrus zester or microplane
We rely on this to extract fine lemon zest without getting any bitter pith, delivering pure lemon flavor to the sauce and shrimp.
- Measuring spoons and cups
Precise measurements keep the balance of lemon juice, garlic, paprika, and seasonings perfect every time.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Ideal for stirring beans and shrimp gently to avoid tearing the delicate cannellini beans while mixing ingredients evenly.
- Colander or fine-mesh sieve
Useful for draining canned beans to remove excess liquid without losing any beans.
Equipment Overview Table
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large skillet or sauté pan | Cooking shrimp and warming beans |
| Medium mixing bowl | Mixing lemon sauce |
| Sharp chef’s knife | Chopping garlic, onion, parsley, zesting lemon |
| Cutting board | Stable prep surface |
| Citrus zester/microplane | Extracting fine lemon zest |
| Measuring spoons & cups | Accurate measurement of ingredients |
| Wooden spoon or spatula | Gently stirring ingredients |
| Colander or sieve | Draining and rinsing beans |
Preparation
Let’s dive into the essential steps to bring our Lemony Shrimp and Beans dish to life. Perfect preparation guarantees vibrant flavors and ideal textures.
Preparing the Shrimp
We start with 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly.
- In a bowl, combine the shrimp with:
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Toss well to coat every shrimp evenly.
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer, cooking for 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding to prevent steaming.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
Tip: Using smoked paprika adds a subtle depth that complements the lemon zest perfectly.
Preparing the Beans
For creamy cannellini beans, we want them warm, flavorful, and tender.
- Drain and rinse 2 cups cooked cannellini beans using a colander or fine-mesh sieve.
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and sauté 1 medium onion, finely chopped until translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves and cook for another minute.
- Add the beans to the skillet and season with salt and black pepper.
- Gently warm the beans for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through but not breaking apart.
Making the Lemony Sauce
Our zesty sauce is the heart of this dish, brightening the shrimp and beans with fresh Mediterranean flavors.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
- Zest of 1 lemon (use a citrus zester for fine zest)
-
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
-
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
-
1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Whisk vigorously until the sauce emulsifies and becomes slightly thickened.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Lemon juice | 3 tablespoons | Freshly squeezed |
| Lemon zest | 1 lemon’s worth | Finely grated |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 3 tablespoons | |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon | |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons | Finely chopped |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
“The acidity in the lemon juice paired with honey creates a perfect balance of bright and sweet flavors that elevate the entire dish.”
With these preparation steps complete, we’re ready to combine everything for our delicious Lemony Shrimp and Beans creation.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these precise steps to master our Lemony Shrimp and Beans recipe. Each stage builds layers of flavor resulting in a balanced, vibrant dish.
Cooking the Beans
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release aroma.
- Add 2 cups cooked cannellini beans (drained and rinsed) to the pan.
- Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until beans are warmed through and slightly tender.
- Remove from heat and set aside while preparing shrimp.
Sautéing the Shrimp
- In a medium bowl, combine:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Toss shrimp until evenly coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Add shrimp in a single layer; avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on one side until pink and slightly golden.
- Flip and cook for another 2 minutes until opaque and cooked through.
- Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
Combining Shrimp and Beans
- Return the skillet with beans to medium heat.
- Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet.
- Pour the prepared zesty lemon sauce (from lemon juice, zest, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and parsley) evenly over shrimp and beans.
- Gently toss everything together for 1-2 minutes to combine flavors and warm the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, crushed red pepper flakes, or Parmesan cheese if desired.
| Step | Ingredient/Action | Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking Beans | Sauté onion and thyme | 4-5 min + 0.5 min | Medium |
| Heat cannellini beans with seasoning | 5-7 min | Medium | |
| Sautéing Shrimp | Cook one side of shrimp | 2-3 min | Medium-high |
| Cook other side of shrimp | 2 min | Medium-high | |
| Combining Ingredients | Toss shrimp and beans with lemon sauce | 1-2 min | Medium |
This structured process will ensure our Lemony Shrimp and Beans come together perfectly bright and flavorful every time.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Lemony Shrimp and Beans and create a complete meal experience, we recommend pairing this vibrant dish with a selection of complementary sides and garnishes. These suggestions bring balance and texture while enhancing the bright citrus notes and tender shrimp.
Perfect Side Pairings
- Crusty Artisan Bread
Serve with warm, crusty artisan bread or a fresh baguette. The bread is ideal for soaking up the zesty lemon sauce and creamy beans.
- Light Green Salad
A crisp green salad with arugula, baby spinach, or mixed greens dressed lightly with olive oil and balsamic vinegar adds fresh crunch and balances the richness.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables
Asparagus, zucchini, or green beans simply steamed or roasted with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt complements the flavors without overpowering them.
- Fluffy Rice or Quinoa
A bed of jasmine rice, basmati rice, or fluffy quinoa provides a neutral base, absorbing the lemony sauce beautifully and adding substance.
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Crusty Artisan Bread | Earthy, chewy | Serve warm |
| Green Salad | Fresh, crisp | Light vinaigrette dressing |
| Steamed Vegetables | Mild, tender | Lightly seasoned |
| Rice or Quinoa | Neutral, fluffy | Cook as per package instructions |
Garnishes for a Flavor Boost
- Fresh Parsley or Basil: Chopped herbs add a burst of color and fresh aroma.
- Lemon Wedges: Offer extra lemon wedges for guests to squeeze over their servings for an added citrus punch.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Provide a hint of heat that contrasts well with the lemon’s brightness.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: A light sprinkle adds umami richness and depth.
Serving Tips
- Serve the Lemony Shrimp and Beans immediately while warm to enjoy the full brightness of the lemon sauce and tender shrimp texture.
- Present in shallow bowls or on large plates to display the vibrant colors and make it easy to mix beans and shrimp with sides.
- Encourage guests to combine multiple garnishes, such as parsley and Parmesan, customizing their bites.
“The perfect serving brings out the harmony between the zesty lemon, succulent shrimp, and creamy beans — balanced with complementary textures and flavors.”
Using these serving suggestions, we turn our Lemony Shrimp and Beans into a stunning, balanced meal sure to delight every palate.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy our Lemony Shrimp and Beans recipe with minimal effort on busy days, follow these strategic make-ahead tips that preserve the dish’s freshness and vibrant flavors.
Prep Ingredients in Advance
- Peel and devein the shrimp: Place shrimp in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Keep them dry to avoid sogginess.
- Cook and season the beans: Prepare the cannellini beans with sautéed onions and thyme as instructed. Let them cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Whisk the lemon sauce: Combine lemon juice, zest, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and seasonings in a small jar. Seal tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Before serving, shake well to recombine.
Storing and Reheating
| Component | Storage Method | Storage Time | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shrimp (raw prep) | Airtight container, fridge | Up to 24 hours | Cook fresh before serving; do not freeze raw shrimp in advance. |
| Cooked beans | Airtight container, fridge | Up to 2 days | Warm gently in skillet over medium heat until heated through. |
| Lemon sauce | Sealed jar, fridge | Up to 2 days | Use as is; no reheating needed. |
Assembly Tips
On serving day, sauté the shrimp fresh in a hot skillet to lock in tenderness and flavor. Warm the beans gently without overcooking. Toss the shrimp and beans with the chilled lemon sauce just before plating. This method ensures our dish remains bright, zesty, and appealing.
“Preparing elements in advance lets us save time while keeping every bite lively and flavorful.”
Optional Make-Ahead Garnishes
- Chop fresh parsley and store in a small airtight container.
- Pre-slice lemon wedges and squeeze any extra juice into a small container, refrigerate.
- Grate Parmesan cheese in advance and cover tightly.
These garnishes can be added just before serving to enhance texture and brighten presentation.
By following these make-ahead tips we can enjoy our Lemony Shrimp and Beans with speed and ease without sacrificing the freshness and vibrant taste that makes this recipe special.
Storage Instructions
To keep our Lemony Shrimp and Beans fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. Follow these steps closely for the best results:
- Cool Completely Before Storing: Allow both the shrimp and beans to cool to room temperature before placing them in the refrigerator. This prevents condensation which can affect texture and flavor.
- Use Airtight Containers: Store the shrimp and beans separately in airtight containers to maintain their distinct flavors and textures.
Store the shrimp and beans in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to ensure optimum freshness and safety.
| Component | Storage Method | Maximum Refrigeration Time |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp | Airtight container | 2 days |
| Beans | Airtight container | 2 days |
| Lemon Sauce | Airtight container | 2 days |
- Freezing:
We do not recommend freezing this dish as the texture of shrimp and beans can become compromised upon thawing, impacting the delicate citrus flavors.
- Reheating Tips:
Warm the beans gently in a skillet over low heat. Sauté shrimp quickly just until heated through to avoid overcooking. After reheating, toss with the lemon sauce freshly whisked or chilled in the fridge. This step preserves the bright, zesty notes crucial to our dish.
“Storing the components separately allows us to retain the vibrant flavors and pleasing textures inherent to the Lemony Shrimp and Beans recipe.”
- Garnishes:
Store optional garnishes like fresh parsley, lemon wedges, and crushed red pepper flakes in separate containers for up to 1 day. Add these fresh at serving time to maximize their aroma and color.
By following these storage instructions we ensure our dish stays delicious and safe which allows us to enjoy the vibrant freshness of the Lemony Shrimp and Beans recipe even on busy days.
Conclusion
This Lemony Shrimp and Beans recipe brings together bright citrus flavors and tender textures in a way that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. It’s a versatile dish that fits perfectly into busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a healthy boost of protein and freshness.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a great addition to any home cook’s repertoire. We’re confident that once you try it, this vibrant meal will become a go-to favorite for its balance of flavor and ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need to make Lemony Shrimp and Beans?
You need large shrimp, olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, cannellini beans, onion, thyme, lemon juice and zest, Dijon mustard, honey, parsley, and seasonings. Optional garnishes include fresh parsley, lemon wedges, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese.
How do I prepare the shrimp for this recipe?
Peel and devein the shrimp, then coat them with olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper before searing in a hot skillet until pink and cooked through.
Can I make the lemon sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can whisk the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and seasonings in advance and store it in the fridge for up to two days.
How should I store leftovers of Lemony Shrimp and Beans?
Store shrimp and beans separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Avoid freezing to maintain texture and flavor.
What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Warm the beans gently on the stove, quickly sauté the shrimp to avoid overcooking, then toss everything with freshly whisked lemon sauce before serving.
What side dishes pair well with Lemony Shrimp and Beans?
Good pairings include crusty artisan bread, light green salads, steamed or roasted vegetables, and fluffy rice or quinoa to complement the bright citrus flavors.
What equipment do I need for preparing this recipe?
Essential tools are a large skillet, medium mixing bowl, sharp chef’s knife, cutting board, citrus zester, measuring spoons/cups, wooden spoon or silicone spatula, and a colander or sieve.
Can this recipe be prepared for quick weeknight meals?
Yes, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare and can be made even faster by prepping ingredients and sauce ahead of time. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or lunches.
Are there any tips to enhance the flavor of this dish?
Use fresh ingredients, don’t overcook the shrimp, add optional garnishes like fresh herbs, lemon wedges, crushed red pepper flakes, or grated Parmesan cheese to boost taste and presentation.
Is it possible to customize this recipe?
Absolutely! You can adjust seasonings, swap cannellini beans for other white beans, add more or less lemon, or include your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste.