Craving something hearty, refreshing, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors? Look no further than this Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon, or Revithia! This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a comforting meal that’s both healthy and delicious. Packed with nutritious chickpeas, aromatic herbs, and a zesty lemon twist, it’s guaranteed to transport you straight to the sunny shores of Greece with every spoonful.
Let’s dive into how to make this incredible soup!
⭐Ingredients:
- ½ cup olive oil, plus an extra 2 tablespoons, divided
- 1 large red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 celery sticks, sliced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 2 tablespoons oregano, dried or fresh
- 1 sprig rosemary, needles minced
- 1 bay leaf for that touch of flavor
- 2 cans (14 oz each) of chickpeas, or 1 lb dry chickpeas soaked and cooked
- 750 ml (about 3 cups) of rich vegetable stock
- The juice of 2 zesty lemons
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, but recommended for that fresh kick)
⭐Preparation:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating ½ cup olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. This is where the base of your flavors starts to develop.
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly. The garlic should release its wonderful aroma but not burn, so keep an eye on it!
2. Add the Vegetables and Herbs:
Now, it’s time to add the diced carrot and sliced celery to the pot. These vegetables will provide a nice, subtle sweetness to balance the richness of the chickpeas and the tang of the lemon.
Sprinkle in oregano, rosemary, and add a bay leaf for that perfect herbal touch. Stir the ingredients together to combine all the flavors and let them mingle for another minute or two.
3. Simmer with Chickpeas:
Now, it’s time to bring in the star ingredient: chickpeas. You can either use 2 cans of chickpeas (drained and rinsed) or, for a more authentic touch, cook 1 lb of dry chickpeas that you’ve soaked overnight. Whichever option you choose, add them to the pot along with 750 ml of vegetable stock.
Give everything a good stir, then bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. During this time, the flavors will meld together beautifully, and the chickpeas will soften, allowing their rich, nutty taste to infuse the soup.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once the soup is ready and the chickpeas are tender, turn off the heat. Add the extra 2 tablespoons of olive oil for that luxurious, smooth finish. Then, squeeze in the juice of 2 lemons, adding that irresistible citrus brightness that makes this soup so refreshing.
For a burst of fresh flavor, sprinkle in some freshly chopped parsley. This is optional, but I highly recommend it to bring a touch of color and freshness to the dish. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
⭐Additional Tips:
- Adjust the Consistency: If you like a thinner soup, feel free to add more vegetable stock to reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, for a thicker, heartier soup, you can lightly mash some of the chickpeas with the back of a spoon before adding the lemon juice and olive oil.
- Flavor Variations: Want to give your soup an extra twist? Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or even a splash of white wine vinegar for some added acidity.
- Serving Suggestions: This Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon is perfect on its own or served alongside some crusty bread. Use the bread to soak up the flavorful broth and enjoy every last bite.
- Make it Vegan: This soup is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for a variety of dietary preferences. Feel free to make it your own with the tips above or experiment with different herbs and spices.
⭐Why This Soup Will Become Your Go-To Favorite:
Greek Revithia is the ultimate combination of comforting and refreshing. The olive oil gives the soup a rich texture, while the chickpeas provide protein and fiber, making it a filling and nourishing meal. The lemon juice adds a fresh, tangy punch, elevating the flavors and cutting through the richness of the soup. And the fresh parsley on top gives it that perfect pop of color and freshness.
Not only is this soup full of vibrant Mediterranean flavors, but it’s also a breeze to make. With pantry staples like chickpeas and vegetable stock, plus fresh veggies and herbs, you can whip up this healthy soup any time you need a quick yet satisfying meal.
⭐The Health Benefits of Chickpeas:
Chickpeas are a true superfood packed with nutrients. They’re high in protein, which helps build and repair muscles, and fiber, which supports healthy digestion. In addition to being great for your gut, chickpeas help regulate blood sugar levels and provide steady energy throughout the day.
Plus, with the addition of olive oil, this soup is rich in healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. The lemon juice is a natural detoxifier, providing a good dose of vitamin C, which supports your immune system.
⭐Why You’ll Love Making This Soup:
- Simple Ingredients: You don’t need any complicated or hard-to-find ingredients to make this soup. Everything you need can be found at your local grocery store or in your pantry.
- Versatile: Whether you prefer a thick, hearty texture or a light, brothy consistency, this soup can be adjusted to suit your tastes.
- Affordable: Chickpeas are a budget-friendly source of protein, making this soup not only healthy but also economical.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for a few days, and the flavors get even better after sitting overnight. You can easily make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week!
⭐Final Thoughts:
This Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon (Revithia) is the perfect balance of flavors: creamy, earthy chickpeas paired with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or preparing a meal for the whole family, this recipe is sure to please. Healthy, filling, and bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors, it’s bound to become a regular in your recipe rotation.
So, gather your ingredients, and let this simple but amazing soup work its magic on your taste buds. Trust me – once you try it, you’ll never want to make any other soup again!
Bon appétit! 😋🥣
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