There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of homemade soup, especially when it’s bursting with flavors inspired by the sunny Mediterranean. This recipe for Lemony Chickpea Soup is a delightful blend of zesty lemon, hearty chickpeas, and fragrant herbs that will transport you to the picturesque villages of Greece with every spoonful.
**Lemony Chickpea Soup**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 6 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Zest and juice of 2 lemons
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
– Olive oil for cooking
**Instructions:**
1. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
2. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, and paprika to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes until the chickpeas are heated through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, giving the soup a bright and refreshing flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Ladle the Lemony Chickpea Soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
7. Serve the soup hot with a slice of crusty bread on the side for a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Enjoy the delightful combination of citrusy lemon, earthy chickpeas, and aromatic herbs in this nourishing Lemony Chickpea Soup. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a cozy dinner option, this Mediterranean-inspired soup is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and heartwarming appeal. Gather your ingredients, simmer a pot of this comforting soup, and take a culinary journey to the sun-soaked shores of Greece from the comfort of your own home.