Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup

Name: Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy Home Meals

I love making Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup because it combines the bright flavor of lemon with the heartiness of chickpeas, creating a delightful dish that warms the soul. This soup is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. The creamy texture, achieved without any heavy cream, is surprisingly rich and satisfying. I often enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread, and I find that the zesty notes really invigorate the palate. It's a simple yet sophisticated meal that leaves everyone asking for more!

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:58:14.016Z

Making Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup became a cherished ritual in our home during the chilly months. I remember the first time I experimented with this recipe; I was surprised to find that a few simple ingredients could come together to create such a delicious and hearty dish. The addition of lemon not only brightens the flavor but also elevates the overall experience.

What really makes this soup stand out is the creamy consistency, which I achieve by blending part of the chickpeas with broth. This method gives you the richness without relying heavily on cream. I’ve found that a touch of fresh parsley sprinkled on top before serving adds a lovely color and fresh taste!

Why You'll Love This Soup
Zesty lemon flavor that brightens your day
Creamy texture without heavy cream
Packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas
Quick and easy to prepare for any night

The Role of Chickpeas

Chickpeas are the star of this soup, not just for their flavor but also for their nutritional benefits. Packed with protein and fiber, they contribute to the soup's heartiness, ensuring that it's not just a light meal. Their creamy texture when slightly blended adds depth to the soup, making it feel nourishing and substantial. If you’re in a pinch, canned chickpeas work perfectly, but dried chickpeas can be used if soaked and cooked beforehand for a firmer texture.

When sautéing your vegetables, take care not to overcrowd the pot, as this can lead to steaming rather than browning. This sautéing process caramelizes the natural sugars in the onions and carrots, enhancing the flavor base of your soup. Stir occasionally and watch for the onions to become translucent and the carrots to soften, which typically takes about 5 minutes at medium heat.

Blending Techniques

Achieving the perfect creamy texture is all about blending. An immersion blender is ideal since it allows for easy blending directly in the pot, minimizing mess. Blend until the soup reaches your desired consistency—smooth with some chickpeas left intact for a delightful texture contrast. If using a regular blender, be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches to avoid hot splashes, and cover the lid with a kitchen towel to prevent any burns.

For those who prefer an even creamier taste, consider adding a splash of plant-based milk, such as coconut or almond, after blending the soup. This will enhance the richness without compromising the bright lemon flavor. Keep in mind that additions should be adjusted based on personal preferences to avoid overpowering the lemon's zesty notes.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful bowl of soup.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking for a smooth process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your creamy soup.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Chickpeas and Broth

Stir in the drained chickpeas and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth, leaving some chickpeas intact for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches.

Add Lemon and Season

Stir in the lemon juice and zest, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot, preferably with a slice of crusty bread on the side.

Enjoy this soup as a nutritious lunch or a light dinner!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider tossing in a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of coconut milk for extra creaminess.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make a double batch on the weekend for quick meals during the week. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup thickens while stored, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency when reheating.

For longer storage, you can freeze this soup for up to three months. I recommend portioning it into individual servings before freezing, making it easier to thaw just the right amount. To reheat from frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stove, adjusting the texture with broth as needed.

Serving Suggestions

I highly recommend pairing this soup with a slice of crusty bread for a satisfying meal. A warm baguette or sourdough complements the soup's creamy consistency perfectly, allowing for delightful dunking. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad topped with lemon vinaigrette to echo the soup's zesty notes and add a light crunch.

For a complete meal experience, consider adding protein on the side, such as grilled chicken or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top of the soup for added depth. Top each bowl with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving for an extra layer of richness that balances the lemony flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

I recommend pairing it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a sprinkle of croutons for extra crunch.