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 cup coconut milk; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love warming up with a comforting bowl of creamy lemon chickpea soup, especially on chilly days. The smooth and velvety texture combined with the zesty lemon flavor creates a delightful harmony that is both refreshing and satisfying. Using chickpeas not only adds richness but also boosts the protein content, making this soup a perfectly balanced meal. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, I can whip up this dish in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekends.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:43:12.967Z

When I first tried making creamy lemon chickpea soup, I was surprised at how simple yet flavorful it turned out. The key to achieving the creamy texture lies in blending the chickpeas with vegetable broth and a splash of coconut milk, which not only enriches the flavor but also adds a hint of sweetness. I remember the first time I made it for my friends; they couldn't believe it was entirely plant-based!

Another tip that I've discovered over time is to add the lemon juice gradually. Everyone has a different palate, and by doing this, I can ensure the soup has just the right tanginess without overpowering the other ingredients. Garnishing with fresh herbs at the end gives it a beautiful presentation and an added burst of flavor!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor that brightens up your day
Creamy texture that's both satisfying and healthy
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any night of the week

      

Understanding the Ingredients

This creamy lemon chickpea soup benefits greatly from the use of high-quality chickpeas. Canned chickpeas are convenient and quick to use, but for a more intense flavor and firmer texture, consider cooking dried chickpeas from scratch. Soak them overnight and boil until tender before adding them to the soup. This small step enhances the dish's overall richness and ensures you have control over the texture.

The choice of coconut milk is crucial for achieving that velvety soup. Full-fat coconut milk provides the best creaminess, while light coconut milk yields a thinner consistency. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, almond or cashew milk can work, but they will alter the flavor slightly. To maintain a creamy texture, avoid using lower-fat plant-based milks that can separate when heated.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Sautéing the onion and garlic until translucent is an essential step to build the soup's flavor base. Engage your senses; you should see the onions become glossy and they should soften without browning, which can happen if you use too high a heat. If this occurs, the soup could develop a bitter taste, so keep the temperature at medium and occasionally stir to ensure even cooking.

When blending the soup, it's advisable to work in batches if your blender is small. Fill your blender no more than halfway to avoid overflow, as hot liquids can expand quickly. If possible, use an immersion blender directly in the pot for less cleanup and a smoother texture without worrying about hot transfers.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Add the drained chickpeas and vegetable broth to the pot, bringing it to a simmer. Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to a blender. Blend until smooth.

Finish the Soup

Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the coconut milk and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat gently until warmed through.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika to kick up the taste. You can also try blending in some spinach or kale for extra nutrition.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to three months; just remember to label the bags with the date to keep track.

When reheating the soup, do so on low to medium heat. If the soup seems too thick after freezing, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir it gently to incorporate the liquid and heat thoroughly until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

For added texture and flavor, consider topping your creamy lemon chickpea soup with crispy chickpeas or croutons. You can achieve crispy chickpeas by roasting them in the oven with olive oil, salt, and your favorite spices until they are golden and crunchy. This provides a delightful contrast to the smoothness of the soup.

Pair the soup with crusty bread like a sourdough loaf or garlic bread to make the meal more satisfying. A fresh side salad can also enhance your dining experience, providing a refreshing crunch to complement the creamy soup.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, you can freeze creamy lemon chickpea soup. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and leave a little space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I substitute the coconut milk?

Absolutely! You can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other plant-based milk, but this may impact the creaminess of the soup.

→ How can I make this soup spicier?

You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño during the sautéing process for an extra kick.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store the cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best consumed within 3-4 days.