This Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon is a delightful, aromatic dish that takes you on a flavorful journey to Greece with every spoonful. The combination of chickpeas, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon kick makes this soup incredibly satisfying and refreshing. It’s easy to prepare, packed with healthy ingredients, and perfect for a light, wholesome meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this Mediterranean-inspired soup:
Ingredients:
- ½ cup olive oil + extra 2 tbsp, divided
- 1 large red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 celery sticks, chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 2 tbsp oregano (dried)
- 1 sprig rosemary, minced (needles only)
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 x 400g (14 oz) cans of chickpeas (or 450g/1 lb dry chickpeas)
- 750 ml (3 cups) vegetable stock
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Heat ½ cup of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and sauté for 1-2 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Herbs
Next, stir in the chopped carrot and celery, followed by the oregano, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir everything together to combine.
Step 4: Add Chickpeas and Broth
Add the chickpeas (drained and rinsed if using canned), and pour in the vegetable stock. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Simmer
Lower the heat, cover the pot with a lid, and let the soup cook for 25-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender.
Step 6: Finish the Soup
Turn off the heat once the soup is ready. Add the extra 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh parsley (if using). Stir everything well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the soup hot, accompanied by crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy the refreshing, hearty, and fragrant soup!
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 13g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 13g
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What type of chickpeas should I use for Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon?
- You can use canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed, or dried chickpeas that have been soaked overnight.
- Can I use other herbs in place of oregano and rosemary?
- Yes! You can try thyme, basil, or even a Mediterranean herb blend for variations in flavor.
- Can I substitute vegetable stock with chicken stock?
- Absolutely! Chicken stock can replace vegetable stock for a different flavor profile, depending on your preference.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time?
- Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day! Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
- Is the lemon juice essential?
- The lemon juice provides a tangy brightness, making it a key ingredient, but you can adjust it to your liking or omit it if necessary.
- Can I freeze Greek Chickpea Soup?
- Yes, this soup freezes well. Cool it completely before transferring it to airtight containers, and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it.
- What’s the purpose of the extra olive oil at the end?
- The extra olive oil adds richness and enhances the flavors, creating a delicious finishing touch in Mediterranean cooking.
- Can I add additional vegetables to the soup?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add zucchini, spinach, or other vegetables to increase the nutritional value.
- What’s the role of the bay leaf in the soup?
- The bay leaf adds a subtle earthy depth to the soup. Be sure to remove it before serving, as it’s not meant to be eaten.
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Can I omit the fresh parsley?
- While parsley adds freshness, the soup will still be delicious without it. You can use other herbs like cilantro or chives if available.
Conclusion:
This Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. It’s healthy, easy to make, and offers a taste of the Mediterranean in every bowl. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a light lunch, this soup is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family for a complete meal!