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Simple Lemon Chickpea Soup

Close-up of a steaming white bowl filled with bright yellow lemon chickpea soup, featuring chickpeas, small pasta, and fresh parsley garnish.
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Make this bright, satisfying Lemon Chickpea Soup using pantry staples for a quick and healthy weeknight meal. It is a comforting vegetarian soup that tastes fresh.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup small pasta (like orzo or ditalini)
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes, if using. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Add the rinsed chickpeas and the small pasta. Cook according to the pasta package directions, usually 8 to 10 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
  5. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. This adds the bright flavor you want.
  6. Taste the soup and season generously with salt and black pepper. Start with 1 teaspoon of salt and adjust as needed.
  7. Stir in the fresh parsley just before serving.

Notes

  • For a creamier texture, scoop out about 1 cup of the soup (mostly broth and some vegetables) before adding the lemon. Blend this portion until smooth, then stir it back into the pot. This thickens the soup without adding dairy.
  • If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, add another teaspoon of zest after tasting.
  • This soup freezes well. Cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. If freezing with pasta, you may need to add a splash of extra broth when reheating as the pasta absorbs liquid.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastethisplate.com/lemon-chickpea-soup-recipe/