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 chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or cilantro)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup! It’s the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it's a chilly evening or a light lunch. The blend of creamy chickpeas and zesty lemon creates a delightful contrast that is both comforting and refreshing. I can’t get enough of this easy recipe, and I’m sure it will become a staple in your kitchen too! In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a nourishing soup that warms the soul and excites the palate.

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:55:18.393Z

When I first tried this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such a flavorful dish. The key is to use high-quality vegetable broth and fresh lemon juice, which adds a bright and tangy element. I remember experimenting with different herbs and spices, and finding that just a pinch of smoked paprika elevates the chickpeas to another level.

One of my favorite tips for this soup is to blend half of the chickpeas with the broth, creating a luscious base while leaving the other half intact for texture. This method combines creaminess with hearty bites of chickpeas, making every spoonful satisfying. Trust me; it’s a game changer!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty brightness from the fresh lemon
Creamy texture that’s surprisingly dairy-free
Nutritious and filling without being heavy

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The chickpeas in this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup serve as a fantastic source of protein and fiber, making the dish both nutritious and satisfying. When choosing canned chickpeas, look for those without added salt, as you can easily control the seasoning in your soup. If you prefer fresh, you can cook dried chickpeas in advance, soaking them overnight and boiling until tender—this method usually takes about 1-2 hours but enhances the flavor significantly.

Coconut milk contributes both creaminess and a subtle tropical flavor that balances the tangy lemon perfectly. Full-fat coconut milk gives the richest texture, but for a lighter option, you can use light coconut milk. If you have dairy restrictions, this ingredient makes sure you still enjoy a velvety soup without any cream.

Perfecting Your Technique

To achieve the ideal smooth texture, blend the soup in stages. Over-blending can result in a gluey consistency, especially if you exceed the blending time. Aim to blend only about half the soup until it’s silky, leaving the other half chunky for added texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer small batches to a counter blender, ensuring that the lid is vented to prevent pressure build-up and splatter.

When adding lemon juice and zest, balance is key. Start with the juice of one lemon, taste the soup, and add more gradually if you want it zestier. This method helps prevent overpowering the dish, and the aroma of fresh lemon zest adds a fragrant quality, elevating the overall flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup:

Main Ingredients

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1 cup coconut milk
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or cilantro)

Make sure to use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add the Chickpeas and Broth

Stir in the chickpeas and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 10 minutes.

Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, blend about half the soup until smooth. You can also transfer half to a blender and then return it to the pot.

Add Coconut Milk and Lemon

Stir in the coconut milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs before serving warm.

Enjoy your heartwarming and flavorful soup!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, feel free to add some spices such as cumin or coriander. They pair beautifully with chickpeas and lemon!

Serving Suggestions

To enjoy this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup as a complete meal, pair it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. The bread provides a fantastic vessel for scooping up the soup, while the salad adds crunch and freshness, complementing the creamy texture. You can also serve it with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an added layer of flavor.

For those looking to elevate the dish further, consider adding roasted vegetables or sautéed greens on top before serving. This not only adds visual appeal but also increases the nutrients in your meal, making it even more satisfying.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, adding a splash of vegetable broth can help restore the creamy texture, as it may thicken slightly when chilled. Heat gently on the stove over low to medium heat to prevent the coconut milk from curdling.

If you want to make this soup ahead of time, consider preparing the base without adding the lemon juice and coconut milk. These ingredients can be added freshly before serving to ensure the bright lemon flavor remains pronounced and the coconut milk stays creamy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand to match the texture of canned chickpeas.

→ Is this soup vegan?

Absolutely! The soup is entirely plant-based and dairy-free.

→ How long does leftover soup last?

Leftover soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

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