Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon

Introduction: If you’re craving a dish that’s both nourishing and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors, look no further than Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon. This delightful soup combines the earthy richness of chickpeas with the tangy brightness of lemon, all wrapped up in a comforting, hearty broth. It’s a perfect balance of Mediterranean flavors that will warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re seeking a vegan meal, a nutritious lunch, or a wholesome dinner, this Greek-inspired soup is a must-try.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups dried chickpeas (or 3 cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for garnish, optional)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Chickpeas: If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight in plenty of water. The next day, drain and rinse the chickpeas. If using canned chickpeas, simply drain and rinse them.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
3. Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, and thyme. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes aromatic.
4. Simmer the Soup: Add the chickpeas (soaked or canned) and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the chickpeas are tender. If you’re using canned chickpeas, 15-20 minutes of simmering will suffice.
5. Finish the Soup: Once the chickpeas are cooked, add fresh lemon juice and lemon zest to the soup. Stir and taste, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Blend (Optional): For a creamier texture, you can blend half of the soup with an immersion blender or in a countertop blender, then return it to the pot and stir.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle with a little olive oil and fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips:

• Serving: This soup is perfect on its own, but it also pairs well with a slice of crusty bread or a side of Greek salad for a complete meal. For an extra protein boost, add some grilled chicken or feta cheese on top.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm over medium heat on the stovetop until heated through.

Variations:

• Add Greens: Incorporate leafy greens like spinach, kale, or arugula for extra nutrients and a pop of color.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper if you enjoy a little heat in your soup.
• Substitute Broth: You can use chicken broth or bone broth for a different flavor profile, though vegetable broth keeps it fully vegan and plant-based.

FAQ:

1. Can I use canned chickpeas? Yes, you can use canned chickpeas for convenience. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well before adding them to the soup.
2. Can I make this soup in advance? Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. Just store it in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve.
3. What other herbs can I use? In addition to oregano and thyme, you can experiment with other Mediterranean herbs such as basil, rosemary, or marjoram to customize the flavor.
4. Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, this Greek Chickpea Soup is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
5. How do I make this soup creamier? For a creamier texture, you can blend part of the soup after it’s cooked and return it to the pot. Alternatively, adding a splash of coconut milk or dairy cream will also give it a rich, velvety consistency.

Enjoy this light yet hearty Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon for a taste of the Mediterranean in every spoonful!