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 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 large lemon, juiced and zested; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup, especially on chilly days when I crave something comforting yet refreshing. The smooth, creamy texture combined with the zesty notes of lemon creates a vibrant dish that warms me from the inside out. With just a handful of ingredients, this soup comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Each spoonful feels like a hug, and the bright flavors are sure to uplift any meal. Whether you're looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this recipe is a favorite in my household.

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:34:11.025Z

When I first made this soup, I was amazed at how something so simple could taste so indulgent. The chickpeas provide a creamy consistency without needing any dairy, making it a great option for those who are lactose intolerant. Plus, the bright lemon juice cuts through the richness, creating a balanced and satisfying bowl.

One tip I'd recommend is to use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for the best flavor. It truly elevates the soup, and taking the time to zest the lemon adds an extra burst of citrus that complements the dish beautifully. I can't get enough of this recipe!

        Why You'll Love This Soup
        Creamy texture that satisfies without dairy
Bright lemon flavor that uplifts your mood
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights

      

Mastering the Base Flavors

The foundation of this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup lies in the aromatics. When sautéing onions and garlic, it’s essential to cook them until the onions become translucent to release their natural sweetness. Aim for about 5 minutes over medium heat; this low and slow approach allows the flavors to develop, providing a rich base for the soup. If you notice the garlic starting to brown, reduce the heat to avoid any bitterness.

Adding spices like cumin and turmeric plays a crucial role in enhancing the dish’s depth. The warmth of cumin pairs beautifully with the earthiness of chickpeas, while turmeric brings a bright golden hue. Toasting these spices with the chickpeas helps release their essential oils, creating a fragrant, aromatic profile that sings in each bite. Give them two minutes to mingle on the heat before adding the broth for maximum effect.

Perfecting the Texture

Blending the soup is a key step to achieving its creamy consistency without the use of dairy. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend it completely with an immersion blender until velvety. I recommend blending for about 1-2 minutes until the soup is uniform and glossy. If you enjoy some texture, simply pulse half of it to retain some whole chickpeas in the mix. This not only enhances the mouthfeel but also adds visual appeal to the dish.

After blending, the lemon juice and zest are what elevate the flavor profile. Stirring these in at the end ensures that the bright citrus notes remain vibrant rather than cooking out. Always taste before serving; a pinch of salt and pepper can balance the acidity perfectly. Adjusting to your palate can transform this soup into your very own signature dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful soup:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 large lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

These simple ingredients come together to create a hearty and satisfying soup.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add Spices and Chickpeas

Stir in the ground cumin, turmeric, and chickpeas, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Simmer the Soup

Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you want a chunkier texture, blend only half of it.

Finish with Lemon

Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Once you've completed these steps, your soup is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added richness, consider drizzling a bit of coconut cream on top before serving. It enhances the soup's creaminess and adds a subtle sweetness.

Storing and Reheating

This Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld as it sits, so you might find it even tastier the next day. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed throughout. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the soup to separate.

If you’d like to freeze the soup, portion it into freezer-safe containers and label them with the date. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop. Be ready to add a splash more broth or water after thawing to restore its creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious soup with a slice of crusty bread for a comforting meal that’s both filling and nutritious. You can also pair it with a fresh salad or grain bowl for a complete spread. Adding a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta can provide a delightful creaminess that complements the lemony flavors.

For a fun twist, try topping the soup with roasted chickpeas or a drizzle of olive oil for added texture and richness. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil make excellent garnishes too, enhancing the soup’s fresh flavor profile while adding a pop of color to the bowl.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze leftover soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses chickpeas and vegetable broth.

→ Is there a substitute for chickpeas?

If you're not a fan of chickpeas, you can use white beans or lentils for a similar texture.