Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup

Name: Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup coconut milk; Juice and zest of 2 lemons; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup! The combination of creamy texture and bright lemon flavor makes for a delightful dish that warms the soul. I often prepare it on chilly evenings when I crave something comforting yet healthy. The chickpeas provide a lovely protein boost, and the added citrus elevates the flavor profile. It's a quick and easy recipe that never fails to impress my family and friends, making it a staple in our household.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:01:08.260Z

When I first tried making this soup, I experimented with different spices and found that the lemon really tied everything together. The acidity of the lemon cuts through the creaminess of the chickpeas and provides a fresh burst of flavor. I recommend using freshly squeezed lemon juice to enhance the taste.

After several attempts, I learned that blending half of the chickpeas creates a beautiful creamy texture, while leaving the other half whole adds a delightful bite. This contrast is what makes the soup truly special and comforting.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon brightness combined with hearty chickpeas
Velvety smooth texture that soothes the senses
Quick and nutritious meal perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is a key ingredient in this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup, lending both richness and sweetness. It balances the tartness of the lemon juice and zest, creating a harmonious flavor profile. For a lighter version, consider using light coconut milk, though it may make the soup slightly less creamy. Regular coconut milk will give you that luxurious, velvety texture that makes this dish so tempting.

When adding coconut milk, allow it to heat through without boiling. This helps maintain the creaminess and prevents separation, which can occur if coconut milk is overheated. Stirring it in at the end of the cooking process ensures you capture its full, creamy potential without compromising texture. Keep an eye out for a lovely, glossy finish as you incorporate it!

Perfecting Your Chickpeas

Using canned chickpeas saves time, but if you ever have the opportunity, consider cooking dry chickpeas. Soak them overnight and then simmer until tender for a more flavorful and firmer texture. This extra step might seem daunting, but the depth of flavor is well worth the effort for those who appreciate a heartier bite in their soup.

If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with other legumes such as white beans or lentils. However, be mindful of the cooking times as lentils may break down more quickly than chickpeas and yield a different texture. Also, if you prefer a chunkier soup, reserve a portion of the chickpeas to stir in after blending for added texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors marinate beautifully over time, making it even more delicious when reheated. To avoid the soup thickening too much, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth or water when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.

For longer storage, this soup can be frozen for up to two months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just be cautious not to boil it while reheating, as that can affect the creaminess of the coconut milk.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious soup:

Ingredients

2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk
Juice and zest of 2 lemons
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cumin, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Chickpeas and Broth

Next, add in the drained chickpeas and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Blend for Creaminess

After simmering, blend half of the soup using an immersion blender or transfer to a blender. This will create a creamy base while leaving some chickpeas whole for texture.

Finish with Coconut Milk and Lemon

Stir in the coconut milk, lemon juice, and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for another 5 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your delightful bowl of Creamy Lemon Chickpea Soup!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add in some spinach or kale for an extra boost of greens. Additionally, you can adjust the lemon juice to your taste preference
add more for extra tang!

Serving Suggestions

While this soup is hearty enough on its own, it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. I love to serve it with a sprinkle of extra lemon zest on top and a drizzle of olive oil for added flair. You can also serve it with a side of grilled vegetables to add a pop of color and additional nutrients.

For a kick of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your bowl. This adds warmth and depth, perfectly complementing the lemon and chickpeas. If you're entertaining, consider garnishing the soup with a dollop of yogurt on top, which adds creaminess while enhancing the overall flavor.

Adjusting the Flavor Profile

If you’re a fan of robust flavors, try incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the cooking process. Adding them while sautéing the onions infuses the soup with an aromatic touch that elevates the overall taste. Alternatively, lemon thyme provides a unique twist on the traditional flavor, enhancing the citrus notes in the soup.

For those who enjoy a bit of sweetness, consider adding a chopped carrot or sweet potato during the initial sauté. This natural sweetness will balance the acidity of the lemon nicely. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these vegetables will need a little longer to soften before blending.

Spice and Seasoning Variations

Experimenting with spices can take this soup to new heights. For an Indian-inspired twist, swap out the ground cumin for curry powder or garam masala. This adds a warm, earthy flavor and a hint of exotic aroma that will surprise and delight your taste buds. Just be cautious with the quantity, starting with a teaspoon and adjusting to your preference.

Additionally, consider enhancing the broth's complexity by adding a splash of soy sauce or tamari. This introduces a rich umami flavor that deepens the soup's savory notes. Don’t forget to taste as you go, ensuring a balanced result that aligns with your flavor preferences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can! Just soak and cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the soup.

→ What can I substitute for coconut milk?

You can use heavy cream or any non-dairy milk like almond or cashew milk for a lighter option.

→ How long will the soup last in the fridge?

The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.