Description
This Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chickpeas simmered in a savory vegetable broth with aromatic herbs and brightened by fresh lemon juice and zest. Perfect for a light yet nourishing meal, it combines Mediterranean-inspired ingredients to deliver a healthy and delicious soup that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 3 cups cooked chickpeas)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 large lemon (or more to taste)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5–6 minutes until soft and translucent, creating a flavorful base for the soup.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, enhancing the aromatic profile of the dish.
- Add Chickpeas and Spices: Mix in the chickpeas, bay leaf, dried oregano, and ground cumin (if using). Cook for 2–3 minutes to allow the spices and chickpeas to meld their flavors.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer gently for 20–25 minutes so the flavors fully develop.
- Blend Soup (Optional): Remove and discard the bay leaf. For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the pot or transfer 1–2 cups to a blender and puree before adding back.
- Season with Lemon and Adjust Flavor: Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your preference.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor and color.
Notes
- You can use cooked chickpeas instead of canned for a fresher taste.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste preference for brightness.
- Blending part of the soup creates a creamier, thicker consistency but is optional.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freezes well.
- For a non-vegetarian version, you can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth.