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 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium potato, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup on chilly evenings. The balance of creamy texture and zesty lemon flavor never fails to brighten my day. With the rich umami from chickpeas and a touch of herbs, each spoonful warms my heart. Plus, it’s simple to whip up and packed with nutrients, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen. If you're looking for a comforting bowl that doesn't take much time or fuss, this is it!

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:17:03.485Z

When I first tried making this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The secret to the creaminess lies in blending half of the chickpeas into the broth, giving it a velvety texture without the need for heavy cream. I often add a little spinach for nutrients and a splash of color, which brightens the whole dish!

During my culinary adventures, I’ve learned that the zest and juice of fresh lemons make all the difference, adding a refreshing lift that complements the earthiness of the chickpeas. Don't be afraid to adjust the lemon according to your taste; it’s all about finding that perfect balance!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that's rich and satisfying
Bright lemon flavor that awakens the palate
Packed with protein and fiber for a wholesome meal

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup is the chickpeas, which not only provide protein and fiber but also create a satisfying texture. They offer a hearty element that complements the creamy base. For a smoother soup, opt for canned chickpeas, but if you prefer a fresher taste, dried ones can be cooked ahead of time. Just remember to soak them overnight for optimal results!

Potatoes act as a thickening agent in this soup, adding both creaminess and substance. The starch released during cooking helps achieve that velvety texture you expect from a creamy soup. If you're looking for a lower-carb alternative, consider using cauliflower, which can also blend beautifully to achieve a similar consistency.

Techniques for the Best Soup

Sautéing the onion and garlic until translucent not only enhances their flavors but also develops a base that enriches the overall taste profile of the soup. A medium heat is ideal—too high and they may scorch; too low and their sweetness won’t fully develop. Aim for about five minutes of sautéing, watching for that glossy sheen as they soften.

When blending the soup, an immersion blender is ideal for a seamless texture without the mess of transferring to a stand blender. If you don't have one, you can use a regular blender, but let the soup cool slightly, blending in batches to avoid explosion risks. Start with about half the soup for a creamy consistency, then incorporate the rest for added chickpea texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious soup!

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium potato, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have these ready before beginning your soup!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect soup!

Sauté the aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the potatoes and broth

Stir in the diced potatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Blend and season

Add half of the chickpeas to the pot and use an immersion blender to puree until smooth. Stir in the remaining chickpeas, lemon juice, and zest, and season with salt and pepper.

Serve and garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your creamy, lemony creation!

Make sure to taste as you go to adjust seasonings!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add in some spinach or kale for extra nutrients. For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of coconut milk.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch and refrigerate it for up to three days. Just keep in mind that the flavors will continue to meld over time. If you plan to make it ahead, consider holding off on adding the fresh parsley until serving to maintain its vibrant color and flavor.

For longer storage, this soup also freezes well. Portion it into airtight containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and it's good for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it appears too thick.

Creative Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. A crusty piece of sourdough bread not only adds texture but also complements the lemony notes. Try a sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of olive oil on top for an added layer of flavor.

For a heartier meal, consider serving the soup over cooked quinoa or rice. This switch not only increases the protein content but adds a nutty flavor that harmonizes fantastically with the soup. If you enjoy a little heat, incorporating some sautéed spinach or kale can enhance the nutritional profile and add vibrant color to your bowl.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead?

Yes, just soak and cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the soup.

→ Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Just make sure to leave out any garnishes and add them fresh when reheating.

→ How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when sautéing the onions.

→ Can I substitute the vegetable broth?

Yes, chicken broth works well too if you’re not concerned about keeping it vegetarian.