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: 2 cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 can coconut milk; 4 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup when I need a warm and comforting meal. It’s both creamy and zesty, which creates a delightful balance of flavors. The chickpeas add a hearty texture, while the fresh lemon juice brightens everything up. It’s simple to prepare, and the ingredients are all pantry staples. This soup is perfect for a cozy night in or as a quick lunch. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your rotation!

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:04:22.708Z

When I first made this soup, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly all the flavors meld together. The base is built on sautéed onions and garlic, which I always find essential for a good starter. To enhance creaminess, I usually add coconut milk, and it really takes the soup to another level of richness. The lemon juice at the end is key; it not only adds brightness but also cuts through the creaminess, creating a delightful experience.

I often experiment with spices like turmeric or cumin to add depth. Feeling adventurous? Try this soup with roasted vegetables, or even toss in some greens. I believe this flexibility is what makes it a fantastic go-to recipe. Just remember to taste as you go, so you can adjust seasoning to your preference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy and luscious texture that's incredibly satisfying
Bright lemon flavor that lifts your spirits
Packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas

      

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

To achieve that silky, creamy texture in your soup, blending is key. I recommend using an immersion blender for convenience, but if you only have a regular blender, be careful not to overfill it to avoid spills. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth; this step not only enhances the texture but also helps to integrate all the flavors. If you prefer some chunkiness, blend just half of the soup and return it to the pot for a satisfying contrast.

The choice of coconut milk is also essential for that creamy richness. Look for full-fat coconut milk for the best results, as light versions can lead to a thinner consistency. If you're aiming to reduce calories, consider using a blend of half coconut milk and half vegetable broth. This modification maintains some creaminess while cutting down fat content.

Brightening with Lemon

The lemon juice and zest are what truly make this soup shine. Fresh ingredients are recommended over bottled lemon juice for a vibrant flavor that embraces the entire dish. For an extra zing, you can add the zest of an additional lemon before serving. If you're managing a citrus allergy or looking for an alternative flavor, a splash of apple cider vinegar can mimic that tangy freshness without overpowering the soup.

If you find your soup slightly too acidic after adding the lemon juice, a pinch of sugar can help balance the flavors. This small adjustment can create a more harmonious flavor profile, allowing the brightness of the lemon to shine without overwhelming the other ingredients.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its creaminess. If it seems too thick after refrigeration, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water during reheating to reach your desired consistency.

For a delightful presentation, consider topping your soup with some toasted pine nuts or a swirl of extra coconut milk for added creaminess. A side of crusty bread or a fresh salad pairs beautifully for a complete meal. For a heartier version, incorporate cooked grains like quinoa or farro directly into the soup for additional texture and nutrition.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious soup:

Ingredients

2 cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 can coconut milk
4 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have everything, you're ready to cook this delightful soup!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your creamy soup:

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

Stir in the rinsed chickpeas and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 10 minutes.

Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth. Return it to the pot if using a regular blender.

Add Coconut Milk and Season

Stir in the coconut milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delightful, creamy lemon chickpea soup!

This soup not only satisfies but is also a healthy option!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating spices like cumin or coriander. You can also top the soup with toasted chickpeas for crunch.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize this soup to your taste preferences by swapping out chickpeas for other legumes like white beans or lentils. Each substitution will provide a different flavor and texture; just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly. Lentils can usually be added directly to the pot without pre-cooking, while white beans may require a bit longer to soften properly.

If you're looking for a hearty addition, consider incorporating vegetables like diced carrots or spinach. Add these early in the sautéing process; they will soften beautifully and infuse the soup with extra nutrients and color. Just ensure they are cut evenly for consistent cooking.

Make-Ahead Tips

This soup freezes exceptionally well, making it a perfect option for meal prepping. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

To save time during busy weeks, consider prepping your ingredients in advance. Chop the onions and garlic, rinse the chickpeas, and even measure out your coconut milk and broth. With everything prepped, this soup can come together in around 30 minutes, making it a quick weeknight meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for coconut milk?

You can use almond milk or any other cream substitute, but note that the flavor will change.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.