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: 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 lemon (juice and zest); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (like parsley) for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup, especially during the cooler months when I crave something warm and nourishing. The combination of chickpeas and lemon creates a delightful balance of creamy richness and zesty brightness. Each spoonful feels like a warm hug, and the vibrant flavor makes it ideal for lunch or a light dinner. Plus, it’s so quick to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. I can’t wait to share this comforting dish with you!

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:07:29.439Z

When I first tried my hand at making this soup, I was amazed at how simple it was to create such a rich and flavorful dish. The secret lies in using high-quality vegetable broth and fresh lemon juice, which elevates the entire experience. The chickpeas provide not only creaminess but also a wonderful source of protein that keeps you satisfied.

As I perfected this recipe, I discovered that blending a portion of the chickpeas with the broth creates a velvety texture that is truly indulgent. I often top it with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor. It's a recipe I'm proud to share with my friends!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that warms the soul
Bright burst of lemon flavor that wakes up your taste buds
Packed with protein and nutrients from chickpeas

      

Chickpeas: The Star Ingredient

Chickpeas are not only the foundation of this soup, providing a hearty texture, but they also contribute a wealth of nutrients. Their protein content makes this dish especially satisfying, turning it into a filling option for a light dinner or lunch. If you're looking to amp up the fiber, try adding a third can of chickpeas for an even more robust texture and nutritional boost.

If you’re in a pinch and don’t have canned chickpeas, you can use dried ones. Just remember to soak them overnight and cook them until tender, which typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. This way, you can elevate the flavor of your soup further, as actively cooking the dried chickpeas allows for a more concentrated taste.

Balancing Flavors with Lemon

The lemon juice and zest in this soup are crucial for achieving a delightful tanginess that cuts through the creaminess of the chickpeas. When you add the lemon juice, do so gradually, tasting as you go to ensure you achieve the right level of brightness without overpowering the soup. A fresh lemon is best; if you're out, a splash of bottled lemon juice can work in a crunch, though the flavor won't be as vibrant.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding lemon zest to the sautéed onions and garlic. This will infuse the base of the soup with a fragrant citrus aroma, elevating the overall essence of the dish. Keep the zest as a finishing touch as well for a fresh burst when serving.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch at the beginning of the week and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day in the fridge, making it even more delicious the next time you serve it.

If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing the soup. Just let it cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove to retain the creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful bowl of creamy goodness:

Ingredients

2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cups vegetable broth
1 lemon (juice and zest)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (like parsley) for garnish

Now that you have your ingredients ready, you're just a few steps away from enjoying this delicious soup!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the Chickpeas

Stir in the drained chickpeas and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors.

Pour in the Broth

Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Blend and Season

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth, leaving some chickpeas intact for texture. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and season with salt and pepper.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Enjoy your Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup with some crusty bread or a side salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions. This will give the soup a pleasant warmth and depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a hearty bread for dipping, making it a well-rounded meal. For a more filling option, serve it alongside a grain bowl topped with quinoa or brown rice. Both options complement the flavors of the soup while adding extra texture and nutrients.

Consider adding toppings for an extra flair. Crumbled feta cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt can add creaminess and a salty contrast, while a sprinkle of chili flakes gives a kick of heat that brightens the dish.

Potential Variations

Feel free to customize this soup according to your dietary preferences or what's in your fridge. You can add vegetables such as spinach, kale, or carrots for added nutrients. Just toss them in after blending the chickpeas and let them simmer for an additional 5 minutes until tender.

For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sautéed aromatics. This variation adds warmth and complexity without overwhelming the dish—perfect for those chilly evenings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it into airtight containers.

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead?

Absolutely! Just soak and cook them beforehand until they are tender before adding them to the soup.

→ How can I make it vegan?

The recipe is already vegan! Just be sure your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

It pairs perfectly with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.