Mediterranean Shrimp and Bean Soup
A quick and hearty Mediterranean Shrimp and Bean Soup that makes the most of pre-cooked ingredients like roasted vegetables and beans. Packed with lean protein, nutrient-dense vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, this flexible, diabetes-friendly recipe is perfect for a warming, wholesome dinner.
Ingredients
Protein & Base:
- 1 pound shrimp peeled, deveined.
- 1 cup cooked beans any type.
- 4 cups bean broth or a mix of bean broth and water/stock.
Vegetables:
- 1 cup roasted sweet peppers sliced into strips.
- 1 cup cooked green beans cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved.
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves.
Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil.
- 2-3 cloves garlic minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder).
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice for brightness.
Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp:
- Pat shrimp dry, and season lightly with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Cook the Base:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Stir in smoked paprika and thyme.
Add Broth & Vegetables:
- Pour in the 4 cups of bean broth. Add the cooked beans, roasted sweet peppers, and cooked green beans. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
Add Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp to the simmering soup. Cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
Final Additions:
- Stir in cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are slightly softened.
Season & Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice if desired.
Notes
The roasted red pepper strips in this recipe were made by slicing fresh red peppers into strips, then tossing them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. They were roasted at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly caramelized. This simple preparation enhances their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor to the soup. You can prepare a batch in advance and store them in the fridge to use in a variety of dishes.