Greek Chickpea Soup is a delicious and hearty dish that brings together the flavors of the Mediterranean in a simple, comforting way. This soup is not only nutritious but also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Rich in protein and fiber from chickpeas and packed with vegetables, each bowl provides a warm and satisfying meal that you’ll want to enjoy again and again.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 210
- Protein: 9 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fat: 6 grams
- Fiber: 8 grams
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Sodium: 500 mg
Why Make This Greek Chickpea Soup
This Greek Chickpea Soup is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy yet flavorful meal. Chickpeas are not only a great source of plant-based protein but also provide plenty of fiber, which helps keep you full and satisfied. The combination of savory vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a splash of lemon juice brightens up the dish, making it an inviting option for both lunch and dinner. Plus, it’s vegan and can easily be made gluten-free, catering to a variety of diets.
How to Make Greek Chickpea Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
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Step 1: Sautéing the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
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Step 2: Mixing the Ingredients
Stir in the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
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Step 3: Cooking the Soup
Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
-
Step 4: Finishing the Soup
Use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup for a creamier texture, if desired. Stir in the lemon juice before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy.
How to Serve Greek Chickpea Soup
This soup is best served hot, alongside a piece of crusty bread or a fresh side salad. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with a Greek salad topped with feta cheese and olives. You can also add a dollop of yogurt on top for extra creaminess.
How to Store Greek Chickpea Soup
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Greek Chickpea Soup
- For added depth of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf while the soup simmers—just remember to remove it before serving!
- If you prefer a vegetarian-based broth, make sure to check the labels to find a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Feel free to customize this soup by adding other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a twist.
Delicious Variations
- Spicy Chickpea Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Creamier Option: If you love a creamy texture, replace half of the vegetable broth with coconut milk.
- Herbed Delight: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or basil for a refreshing herbal note in your soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes! If you prefer dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding them to the soup. -
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth. -
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. -
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Certainly! Adding cooked chicken or turkey can provide additional protein and heartiness. -
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
Simply add more vegetable broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion
Greek Chickpea Soup is a wholesome dish that provides comfort and nourishment while also being a breeze to prepare. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or feeding a crowd, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Give it a try—you’ll be glad you did!
Print
Greek Chickpea Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Description
A delicious and hearty Mediterranean soup made with chickpeas and vegetables, perfect for a nutritious meal.
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup for a creamier texture, if desired. Stir in the lemon juice before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy.
Notes
Serve hot alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad. Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
