Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup

Name: Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making creamy lemon chickpea soup, especially on chilly days when I crave something warm and comforting. The way the zesty lemon brightens the earthy flavor of chickpeas creates a delicious harmony that never fails to lift my spirits. Making this soup is simple and requires minimal ingredients, yet the result is deeply satisfying. I enjoy serving it with crusty bread for dipping, which makes for a perfect weekend lunch or a quick weeknight dinner.

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:34:14.434Z

When I first stumbled upon this creamy lemon chickpea soup recipe, I was skeptical. How could something so simple be so delicious? After a few tweaks and a good stir, I quickly discovered that the secret was perfectly balancing the flavors. The combination of fresh lemon juice and chickpeas creates a wonderful creaminess that feels indulgent without being heavy.

It's become a staple in my household, especially for gatherings. Everyone loves the vibrant color and the refreshing taste, and I love that I can whip it up in no time. Top it off with a bit of fresh parsley, and you’ve got yourself a crowd-pleaser.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon adds a refreshing twist to a hearty base
Creamy texture without the need for dairy, perfect for vegans
Quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to weeknight meal

      

Mastering the Texture

Achieving the perfect creamy texture is key to this lemon chickpea soup. The blending step is crucial; using an immersion blender allows for more control. Blend until the soup is smooth and silky, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes. If opting for a countertop blender, make sure to vent the lid slightly to prevent steam buildup, blending in small batches to avoid overflows.

For a chunkier texture, reserve a portion of the chickpeas before blending and stir them back in after. This creates a delightful contrast between creamy and whole chickpeas, enhancing both the visual appeal and taste of the soup.

Balancing Flavors

The natural earthiness of chickpeas is beautifully complemented by the acidity of lemon juice and zest. Adjust the lemon to taste; if you prefer a more vibrant flavor, add more zest gradually, testing as you go, until you achieve the desired brightness. This balancing act is essential for a bowl of soup that is not only creamy but also refreshing.

Using high-quality vegetable broth also enhances the overall flavor. A homemade broth can bring depth to the soup, while store-bought options may vary in saltiness. Always taste the soup towards the end of cooking and adjust the seasoning accordingly, especially after adding the lemon, to ensure a well-rounded flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your creamy lemon chickpea soup:

Ingredients

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add Chickpeas and Broth

Stir in the chickpeas, vegetable broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and ground cumin. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup batches to a countertop blender.

Season and Serve

Add salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy this comforting soup with a side of crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of coconut milk before blending for a creamier texture.

Ingredient Swaps

If you're looking to make this soup gluten-free or grain-free, substitute the vegetable broth with homemade stock made from simmered vegetables, which can deepen the soup's flavor without adding any gluten. Alternatively, if you don't have chickpeas on hand, white beans like cannellini or navy beans can provide a similar creamy texture and protein content.

For a little added heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when sautéeing the aromatics. This simple addition can elevate the soup’s flavor profile without overwhelming the lemony brightness.

Storage and Reheating

This creamy lemon chickpea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeks. Before storage, allow the soup to cool to room temperature to prevent condensation, which can affect texture during refrigeration.

When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If the soup appears too thick, stir in a bit of water or additional broth to reach your desired consistency. Given its creamy nature, microwaving might lead to hot spots; if that's your method of choice, stir intermittently to ensure it heats evenly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, just soak and cook the dried chickpeas before adding them to the soup.

→ Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just ensure you let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

→ What can I use instead of vegetable broth?

You can use chicken broth or homemade broth if that suits your taste.

→ Does this soup contain any allergens?

This recipe is free from common allergens, but always check your ingredients for any specific allergies before cooking.