Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon: A Comforting & Nutritious Recipe

Introduction

When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup. Whether you’re searching for Greek Soup Recipes to add to your collection, looking for a dish to enjoy on Souper Sunday, or just craving a bowl of wholesome goodness, this Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon is a must-try. Packed with protein-rich chickpeas, vibrant Mediterranean flavors, and a refreshing hint of lemon, this dish is a staple in Vegan Greek Recipes and offers a satisfying meal for any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Chickpea Soup

This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Rich in Fiber & Protein: Chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this soup fiber fueled and filling.
Immune-Boosting Ingredients: Lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits, making it the perfect food for a cold.
Versatile & Customizable: Whether you prefer a traditional preparation or want to add pasta like orzo, this dish is adaptable and satisfying.
Easy to Make: Requires minimal ingredients yet delivers a deeply flavorful soup.

The History Behind Greek Chickpea Soup

Greek cuisine is known for its simple, hearty, and nourishing dishes. This Greek Soup is inspired by “Revithia,” a traditional chickpea-based soup commonly enjoyed in Greece. Often prepared in clay pots and slow-cooked to perfection, it is a dish that embodies the Mediterranean philosophy of wholesome, healthy eating. The addition of lemon enhances its flavor, providing a bright contrast to the creamy chickpeas, while olive oil ties everything together with its silky texture.

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Ingredients for Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon

To prepare this delightful Greek Chickpea Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

2 cups dried chickpeas (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
6 cups vegetable broth or water
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for depth of flavor)
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 2 lemons
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: ½ cup orzo pasta (for a delicious soup with orzo twist)

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chickpeas

If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight in a large bowl with enough water to cover them. Drain and rinse before using. If using canned chickpeas, simply drain and rinse them well.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.

3. Cook the Chickpeas

Add the chickpeas to the pot along with the vegetable broth, oregano, cumin, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. If using dried chickpeas, cook for about 60–75 minutes until tender. If using canned chickpeas, simmer for about 30 minutes.

4. Add the Lemon Juice

Once the chickpeas are tender, stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Adjust seasoning as needed.

5. Optional: Add Orzo

For a heartier meal, add orzo pasta during the last 10 minutes of cooking, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the orzo is tender.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Remove the bay leaf and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra drizzle of olive oil. Serve with warm crusty bread or pita for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

Make It Creamier: For an extra creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the lemon juice.
Boost the Protein: Add a handful of spinach or kale for extra nutrients and a pop of color.
Gluten-Free Version: Skip the orzo or substitute it with a gluten-free pasta alternative.
Slow Cooker Method: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

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Health Benefits of Greek Chickpea Soup

This Greek Chickpea Soup is not just a comforting meal—it’s packed with health benefits:

Chickpeas: A powerhouse of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, chickpeas support digestion and keep you full longer.
Lemon: High in vitamin C, lemon helps boost immunity and adds a refreshing flavor to the soup.
Olive Oil: A staple in Mediterranean cuisine, olive oil provides heart-healthy fats and anti-inflammatory properties.
Garlic & Onion: These ingredients contain antioxidants and antibacterial compounds, making this soup excellent food for a cold.

Pairing Suggestions

This soup pairs wonderfully with:

Crusty bread or pita for dipping
A simple Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta
A side of hummus or tzatziki for extra flavor

Why This Soup is Perfect for Souper Sunday

If you’re looking for the ideal dish to enjoy on Souper Sunday, this Greek Chickpea Soup is a winner. It’s easy to make in large batches, stores well for meal prep, and is nourishing for the whole family. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your weekly menu.

Conclusion

This Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon is a delicious and nourishing dish that brings together the best of Mediterranean flavors. Whether you’re looking for a Vegan Greek Recipe, a cozy soup with orzo, or a healthy meal to enjoy as food for a cold, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Try it for your next Souper Sunday and experience the magic of Greek comfort food in every bite!