Ingredients

  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can diced tomatoes, with juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste salt and black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • as needed lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
  2. Add the minced garlic and chopped red bell pepper to the pot, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the oregano, cumin, and smoked paprika, allowing the spices to toast slightly for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth and introduce the diced tomatoes with their juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  5. Once boiling, add the chickpeas and cannellini beans. Reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt for about 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

💡 Chef's Notes

Ladle the soup into deep bowls, sprinkle with extra parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over the top. Consider adding a drizzle of olive oil for a finishing touch.

Recipe by Eleanor Whitford - Culinary Writer