Spanish Escabeche

Name: Spanish Escabeche
Cuisine: European, Mediterranean, Spanish
Ingredients: 4 small fresh fish fillets (mackerel, sardines, or a firm white fish) or chicken pieces; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1/2 cup olive oil, divided; 1 cup white wine vinegar; 1/2 cup white wine; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional); 1 large carrot, thinly sliced; 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced; Fresh parsley, for garnish