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Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon

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
See also  Giant Reese's Peanut Butter Pie

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. Can I substitute vegetable stock with chicken stock?
  • Absolutely! Chicken stock can replace vegetable stock for a different flavor profile, depending on your preference.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. Can I add additional vegetables to the soup?
  • Absolutely! Feel free to add zucchini, spinach, or other vegetables to increase the nutritional value.
  1. 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.
  1. 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!