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: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1/2 cup coconut cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup on those chillier days when I crave something warm and comforting. The combination of chickpeas and fresh lemon creates a unique balance of richness and brightness. I often find that the creaminess of this soup works beautifully with the zesty notes of lemon, making each spoonful feel like a hug. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking only about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, which makes it perfect for a quick weekday meal!

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:22:15.412Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I wanted to create something hearty yet refreshing. The use of lemon in the soup was a game changer for me; it added a layer of brightness that really elevated the flavors. Trust me, blending a whole lemon into the soup makes a big difference. It’s not just about flavor but also about the aroma that fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist having a taste before it’s even served!

I also found that the creaminess can be adjusted based on your preference. If you want a slightly thicker soup, you can simply blend a bit longer or add more chickpeas. I love serving this soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill, which adds not only color but also additional flavor.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich citrus flavor paired with hearty chickpeas
Creamy texture that warms you from the inside out
A quick and simple recipe perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding Chickpeas in Your Soup

Chickpeas are not just a source of protein in this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup; they also contribute a distinct creaminess from their starch content. When they are blended, they create a smoothly textured base that elevates the soup’s richness. To ensure that your chickpeas are as velvety as possible, be sure to rinse them thoroughly; this helps in removing any excess salt or preservatives from the can, leading to a cleaner flavor profile.

If you prefer a more robust chickpea presence in your soup, consider using dried chickpeas. Simply soak them overnight and boil them until tender before adding them to the pot. This method not only enhances the texture but allows the beans to absorb more of the delicious broth as they cook.

Elevating the Flavor with Lemon

Lemon plays a star role in this soup, providing an uplifting brightness that complements the earthiness of chickpeas. When you add lemon juice and zest, you're not just enhancing flavor; you're also introducing a touch of acidity that balances the creamy coconut cream. I recommend using fresh lemons for the best results, as the bottled juice can lack the vibrant flavor and aroma needed for this recipe.

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of lemon zest during the final simmer rather than just at the end. This allows the oils from the zest to infuse into the soup, enhancing its citrus aroma and making every spoonful more aromatic.

Make-Ahead and Serving Suggestions

This soup is not only quick to prepare but also makes for excellent leftovers. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup thickens too much, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

For an elevated serving experience, add a swirl of additional coconut cream on top and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving. This not only adds a visual appeal but also introduces a fresh layer of flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Ingredients

Soup Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cups vegetable broth
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1/2 cup coconut cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Chickpeas and Broth

Add the chickpeas to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender.

Finish with Lemon and Cream

Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and coconut cream. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing process. You can also replace coconut cream with regular cream or a dairy-free alternative if desired.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your soup is too thick after blending, don't hesitate to add a bit more vegetable broth until you achieve your preferred consistency. This is a common occurrence due to variations in chickpea density and coconut cream thickness. Start with small increments to avoid diluting the flavor.

Conversely, if your soup ends up too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. This will help thicken it naturally without needing additional ingredients.

Flavor Variations to Consider

To add an earthy flavor dimension to your Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup, consider incorporating spices such as cumin or smoked paprika. These spices can be sautéed with the onion and garlic at the beginning, allowing their flavors to bloom and permeate the soup as it cooks.

Another interesting variation is to include a handful of fresh spinach or kale just before serving. This not only enhances nutritional value but adds an appealing green color, making it visually attractive while introducing another layer of flavor and texture.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're planning to serve a larger crowd, scaling this recipe up is quite straightforward. Simply double all the ingredients, ensuring that you have a pot large enough to accommodate the increased volume. Keep in mind that the cooking time may slightly increase, particularly during the simmering phase; taste for doneness and adjust accordingly.

Alternatively, if you’re cooking for one or two, consider halving the recipe. This can easily be done, but remember that cooking times may remain similar. It’s always best to rely on visual cues like the aroma and texture as indicators of when your soup is ready.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it on the stove before serving.

→ Is it possible to freeze this soup?

Yes, the soup freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat when you're ready to enjoy.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even some grilled cheese for a comforting meal.

→ Can I customize the ingredients?

Definitely! You can add other vegetables like spinach or carrots for more nutritional value. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if needed.