Mediterranean-style Shrimp Vegetable Soup

Mediterranean-style Shrimp Vegetable Soup Recipe - A Delicious Seafood Supper

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mediterranean-style Shrimp Vegetable Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a light lunch. This soup is packed with flavor from the combination of shrimp, vegetables, and aromatic herbs and spices.

History

This recipe draws inspiration from the Mediterranean diet, which is known for its emphasis on fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. The use of shrimp in this soup adds a seafood twist to the traditional vegetable soup, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

olive oil cooking spray
2 cups sliced mushrooms
1 medium onion, chopped
0.5 medium green bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (16 oz (454 g)) reduced-sodium whole tomatoes, undrained, coarsely chopped
1 can (8 oz (227 g)) reduced-sodium tomato sauce
1 lb (454 g) peeled, de-veined shrimp
1-2 cups vegetable broth
0.5 cup dry white wine or orange juice
0.5 - 1 cup clam juice
2 strips orange rind (3 x 0.5 inch)
2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried marjoram leaves
0.5 - 0.75 tsp dried savory leaves
0.25 tsp fennel seeds, crushed
salt and pepper, to taste

How to prepare

Spray a large saucepan with cooking spray and heat it over medium heat until hot.
Add mushrooms, onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the saucepan. Saute the vegetables, covered, until they are tender, which should take around 8 to 10 minutes.
Add all the remaining ingredients to the saucepan, except for salt and pepper. Heat the mixture until it starts boiling.
Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer, covered, for about 10 to 15 minutes.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Variations

Add additional vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or kale for extra nutrition.
Swap out the shrimp for another protein such as chicken or tofu.
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.

- Feel free to customize the vegetables in this soup based on your preferences.

- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, adding more or less herbs and spices as desired.

- For a thicker soup, you can add more tomato sauce or vegetable broth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Saute the vegetables until they are tender to bring out their natural flavors.

- Simmer the soup on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Season the soup with salt and pepper at the end to taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute fresh tomatoes for canned tomatoes if desired.

- Swap out the orange juice for lemon juice for a citrusy twist.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this soup in individual bowls garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. Pair with a glass of white wine for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Pairing Recommendations

This soup pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with sparkling water with a splash of citrus.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Mediterranean-style Shrimp Vegetable Soup contains approximately 250 calories, making it a light and satisfying meal option.

Carbohydrates

This soup is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those looking to reduce their carb intake. Each serving contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this soup primarily come from the shrimp and any added oils. With the use of cooking spray and lean shrimp, this soup is a good source of healthy fats, providing around 5 grams per serving.

Proteins

Shrimp is a rich source of protein, making this soup a protein-packed meal. Each serving contains approximately 25 grams of protein, helping to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is loaded with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and shrimp. It is particularly high in vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, providing a boost to your immune system and overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp) and may not be suitable for those with shellfish allergies. Be sure to check for any other potential allergens in the ingredients used.

Summary

Overall, this soup is a nutritious and balanced meal option, providing a good mix of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a great choice for a light and flavorful meal.

Summary

Mediterranean-style Shrimp Vegetable Soup is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and satisfying meal. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this soup is a great option for a cozy night in or a healthy lunch. Enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean with this delicious soup recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a warm summer day and my dear friend Maria had invited me over for lunch. As I entered her cozy kitchen, the aroma of garlic, onions, and tomatoes filled the air. Maria was busy chopping vegetables and seasoning a pot bubbling on the stove.

"Come in, come in!" Maria greeted me with a warm smile. "I'm making my favorite Mediterranean-style Shrimp Vegetable Soup. I learned this recipe from my grandmother, who learned it from her mother. It's been passed down through generations in my family."

I watched in awe as Maria effortlessly stirred the pot, adding fresh shrimp, zucchini, bell peppers, and a variety of herbs and spices. The colors and flavors melded together beautifully, creating a tantalizing aroma that made my mouth water.

"Would you like to help me with the soup?" Maria asked, handing me a knife and a cutting board. "I can tell you the story behind this recipe as we cook."

I eagerly accepted her offer, feeling honored to learn the secrets of this traditional dish. As we chopped and stirred, Maria began to recount the tale of how her grandmother had first discovered the recipe.

"My grandmother grew up in a small village by the Mediterranean Sea," Maria began. "She was a skilled cook who loved to experiment with fresh ingredients from the land and sea. One day, she came across a group of fishermen who had just returned from a successful catch. They offered her some of their fresh shrimp in exchange for a meal."

Maria's eyes sparkled as she recalled the memory. "My grandmother accepted their offer and set to work creating a hearty soup that would showcase the flavors of the shrimp and vegetables. She added tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a medley of herbs and spices, simmering everything together until the flavors melded into a rich and savory broth."

As Maria spoke, I could almost taste the soup on my tongue. The story of her grandmother's culinary adventure inspired me to try my hand at recreating the recipe in my own kitchen.

After a few hours of cooking and chatting, the soup was finally ready. Maria ladled steaming bowls of the fragrant liquid into bowls and garnished them with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil. We sat down at the table and savored each spoonful, the flavors transporting us to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean.

As we ate, Maria shared more stories of her family's culinary traditions and the importance of passing down recipes from generation to generation. I listened intently, feeling a deep connection to her heritage and the love and care that went into each dish.

After lunch, Maria gifted me with a handwritten copy of the recipe for the Mediterranean-style Shrimp Vegetable Soup. She encouraged me to make it for my own family and friends, sharing the joy of good food and good company.

I took her words to heart and set out to recreate the soup in my own kitchen. With each chop of a vegetable and sprinkle of a spice, I felt a connection to the past and a sense of pride in carrying on a tradition that had brought so much joy and comfort to my loved ones.

Over the years, I have made the Mediterranean-style Shrimp Vegetable Soup countless times, each batch a tribute to the enduring legacy of Maria's grandmother and the shared love of food that binds us all together. And every time I take a sip of the fragrant broth, I am transported back to that fateful day in Maria's kitchen, where I first discovered the magic of a simple recipe passed down through generations.