Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup

Name: Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves of garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley and dill)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love how comforting and refreshing this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup is! The combination of bright lemon, hearty chickpeas, and creamy texture creates a satisfying bowl that warms the soul. I’ve found that the addition of herbs elevates the flavor, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Plus, it's quick to whip up, making it ideal even for weeknight dinners. Trust me, you won’t be able to resist this delightful recipe that packs a punch of flavor in every spoonful.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:10:14.448Z

Creating this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup was an exciting adventure! I started by sautéing onions and garlic, which instantly filled my kitchen with that wonderful aroma. Then I added the chickpeas and let them simmer with fresh vegetable broth and a squeeze of lemon juice. The key was to blend half of the soup for creaminess while leaving some chickpeas whole for texture.

One of my favorite parts was the final touch of fresh herbs. I opted for parsley and a hint of dill, which added a unique aroma and taste. Each bowl of this soup is not only a delight to the taste buds but also a treat for the senses, making it perfect for cozy nights in.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Refreshing lemon flavor paired with hearty chickpeas
Luxuriously creamy texture that satisfies
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

      

The Importance of Herbs

Fresh herbs are a key element in elevating the flavors of the Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup. The bright, aromatic notes from parsley and dill complement the earthy chickpeas and tangy lemon perfectly. When added as a garnish, not only do they enhance the aesthetic appeal of the dish, but they also provide an extra layer of flavor that ties the soup together. I recommend choosing fresh herbs whenever possible, as they are significantly more aromatic than dried varieties.

For those looking to experiment, feel free to mix in other herbs like thyme or basil, which can bring unique and delightful flavor profiles to the soup. If you want a more robust taste, consider adding these herbs during the sautéing phase to release their essential oils. Just keep in mind that when using stronger herbs, such as rosemary, use them sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

Creaminess and Texture

The soup's creamy texture primarily comes from the combination of coconut milk and the blended chickpeas. Coconut milk not only adds a rich creaminess but also a subtle sweetness that balances the tartness of the lemon. If you prefer a lighter option or dairy-free alternative, you can substitute the coconut milk with unsweetened almond milk, though the level of creaminess will be reduced. Regardless of the choice, the blending step is crucial; blending part of the soup creates a silky smooth consistency, while leaving chickpeas whole adds a satisfying bite.

Another texture tip is to ensure that you don’t over-blend; leaving some chickpeas intact provides both visual interest and substance in each spoonful. If you’re aiming for a chunkier soup, blend only a third of the mixture, allowing you to enjoy the full texture of the chickpeas while still benefiting from the creaminess.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 onion, diced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
Juice of 1 lemon
1 cup coconut milk
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley and dill)

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Chickpeas and Broth

Add the drained chickpeas to the pot and stir well. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Remove half of the soup and blend it in a blender until smooth. Return the blended mixture to the pot along with the coconut milk and lemon juice. Stir well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.

Season and Serve

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.

Storage Tips

This Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup is great for meal prep and storing leftovers. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While it is best enjoyed fresh, the flavors can deepen over time as they meld together. Just give it a good stir before reheating on the stovetop over low heat to prevent scorching.

If you're looking to extend the soup's shelf life further, consider freezing it. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently warm it on the stovetop. If it seems thicker than desired after freezing, simply stir in a bit of vegetable broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.

Serving Suggestions

To take your Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup to the next level, serve it with crusty bread or freshly baked pita on the side. This adds a delightful crunch and serves as a perfect vessel for savoring every drop of soup. Additionally, a light salad with a citrus vinaigrette can accentuate the flavors of the soup, making it a well-rounded meal.

For those wanting to add a protein boost, consider topping the soup with grilled shrimp or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess. Both options not only enhance the nutritional profile but also add extra layers of flavor and texture that complement the soup nicely.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Is it possible to freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I substitute chickpeas with another bean?

Yes, you can use white beans or lentils if you prefer, but the cooking times will vary.

→ What other spices can I add for flavor?

You can experiment with spices like cumin, coriander, or even a pinch of smoked paprika for added depth.