Shrimp and White Beans Skillet with Garlic and Spinach Recipe
If you’re craving something that perfectly balances hearty, healthy, and full of flavor, this Shrimp and White Beans Skillet with Garlic and Spinach Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine tender shrimp nestled in a garlicky white bean base, brightened with fresh spinach and a lively splash of lemon juice. It’s a Mediterranean-inspired dish that comes together in less than 30 minutes but tastes like you spent hours perfecting it. Simple ingredients, big taste, and a comforting skillet meal that’s as beautiful as it is satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, from the juicy shrimp to the creamy white beans and vibrant spinach. These basics come together effortlessly and create layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish truly special.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best tender bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics perfectly.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with its signature warm, pungent flavor.
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped: Brings subtle sweetness and depth.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly earthy note that elevates the shrimp beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle heat that wakes up the palate.
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed: Creamy, mild beans provide a wonderful base and substance.
- ½ cup chicken broth or dry white wine: De-glazes the pan and infuses the beans with savory complexity.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Delicate leaves that wilt down for color, nutrients, and freshness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness of the dish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring everything together.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh herbal finish and pop of green.
How to Make Shrimp and White Beans Skillet with Garlic and Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Spice
Begin by warming olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and finely chopped shallot, sautéing just 1 to 2 minutes until they release their irresistible aroma and soften without browning. Stir in the smoked paprika and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 30 seconds. This short step layers in warm, smoky flavors that will infuse the entire dish beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Carefully add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink and opaque. Flip and cook the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes. Shrimp cook quickly and should be tender and juicy, not rubbery. Once done, remove the shrimp and set them aside—you’ll finish the dish by adding them back in later.
Step 3: Simmer the White Beans
To the same skillet, add the drained and rinsed white beans along with chicken broth or dry white wine. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan from cooking the shrimp. Let this simmer gently for 4 to 5 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly and the beans to soak up all those wonderful spiced pan flavors.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Finish the Dish
Stir in the fresh baby spinach, letting it wilt nicely into the warm beans. Once the spinach is tender, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Give it one last gentle stir to marry those bright, savory, and smoky flavors before garnishing with fresh chopped parsley.
How to Serve Shrimp and White Beans Skillet with Garlic and Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top brings a vibrant pop of color and a delicate herbaceous note that cuts through the richness. A few lemon wedges on the side let each diner add extra zing if they like. For a bit of texture contrast, a light drizzle of good-quality extra-virgin olive oil right before serving works wonders.
Side Dishes
This skillet dish shines on its own but also pairs beautifully with some crusty artisan bread to soak up the garlicky broth. If you’re aiming for something heartier, serve it over fluffy rice or tender orzo pasta—both soak up those flavorful juices and make the meal feel even more comforting and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the shrimp and beans right in the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation that’s sure to impress. Alternatively, plate the shrimp over a bed of grains or greens, then spoon the beans and spinach alongside for an elegant, composed look. For a tapas twist, offer this recipe in small bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of smoked paprika and a fresh herb leaf on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover shrimp and white beans in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The flavors tend to meld even more overnight, making it excellent for next-day enjoyment. Just be mindful that spinach may wilt further but remains tasty and nutritious.
Freezing
Since shrimp can lose some texture when frozen and reheated, freezing this dish is not ideal. However, if necessary, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and use gently reheating methods to help preserve the shrimp’s tenderness.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low to medium heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Adding a splash of broth or water can help loosen the sauce if it’s thickened in the fridge. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to get a nice sear without steaming. This ensures the shrimp stay tender and flavorful.
What types of white beans work best?
Cannellini or great northern beans are perfect for this dish thanks to their creamy texture and mild flavor. They blend seamlessly into the sauce and complement the shrimp beautifully.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely. Swap the shrimp for hearty mushrooms or roasted chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It won’t have the seafood punch, but the smoky paprika and garlic keep the flavors rich and satisfying.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Shrimp and White Beans Skillet with Garlic and Spinach Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those avoiding gluten without compromising on flavor.
How spicy is the dish with crushed red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add just a gentle mild heat that lifts the flavors without overwhelming the palate. You can easily omit or adjust the amount depending on your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp and White Beans Skillet with Garlic and Spinach Recipe is genuinely one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug — nourishing, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it brings Mediterranean sunshine into your kitchen and onto your dinner table in just a few steps. Give it a try soon; I promise you’ll fall in love with its bright, bold flavors and simple, wholesome ingredients.
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Shrimp and White Beans Skillet with Garlic and Spinach Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and healthy Mediterranean-inspired shrimp and white beans skillet featuring tender shrimp, creamy white beans, and fresh spinach, all simmered with garlic, smoked paprika, and a splash of lemon for bright, bold flavors.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Beans and Liquids
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- ½ cup chicken broth or dry white wine
Vegetables and Garnish
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and finely chopped shallot, sautéing for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add spices: Stir in smoked paprika and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
- Cook the shrimp: Place shrimp in a single layer in the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Simmer the beans: Add drained white beans and chicken broth or dry white wine to the same skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 4–5 minutes until the liquid has slightly thickened.
- Wilt the spinach: Stir in baby spinach and cook until it wilts down, about 1–2 minutes.
- Combine and finish: Return cooked shrimp to the skillet, squeeze in fresh lemon juice, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Toss everything gently to combine and heat through.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Serve over rice, orzo, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes for extra Mediterranean flair.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
