Mediterranean Fish Soup with White Beans, Tomato, and Spinach
Ingredients:
Fish: 1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (e.g., cod, haddock), cut into large chunks
White beans: 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
Tomato sauce: 1 cup (240ml) or crushed tomatoes
Spinach: 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
Black olives: 1/3 cup, pitted and halved
Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Fish stock: 4 cups (or substitute with vegetable stock)
Olive oil: 2 tbsp
White wine: 1/2 cup (optional)
Seasonings: 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to taste
Fresh herbs: 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Base Ingredients:
- Stir in the tomato sauce, paprika, and oregano. Cook for 2-3 minutes to deepen the flavors.
3. Deglaze and Simmer:
- Pour in the white wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add the fish stock and beans. Bring to a gentle boil.
4. Cook the Fish:
- Gently place fish chunks into the pot. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is tender and flakes easily.
5. Add Spinach and Olives:
- Stir in spinach leaves and black olives. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until spinach is wilted.
6. Season and Serve:
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
Tips:
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red chili flakes or a splash of lemon juice before serving.
Replace spinach with kale or chard if preferred.
Add a bay leaf while simmering for depth of flavor.
Enjoy this hearty and wholesome Mediterranean-inspired soup!