Mediterranean Chickpea Soup

Name: Mediterranean Chickpea Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Worldly Flavors

I absolutely love making Mediterranean Chickpea Soup, especially when the weather starts to cool down. This hearty soup is not only nourishing but also bursts with vibrant flavors from fresh herbs and spices. The combination of chickpeas and vegetables creates a rich texture that satisfies cravings while being packed with plant-based protein. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I can't wait to share it with you!

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:29:36.959Z

When I first tried making Mediterranean Chickpea Soup, I was blown away by how simple yet delicious it turned out. The key is using fresh ingredients, including tomatoes and crisp herbs, which truly elevate the soup's flavor. I also experimented with adding smoked paprika, which brings a wonderful depth and warmth to the dish.

One great tip I discovered is to let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving—it allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Trust me, this is a comforting dish you’ll want to make over and over again!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, earthy flavor with a hint of Mediterranean spice
Hearty and satisfying without feeling heavy
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables

Perfecting the Flavor Profile

The key to elevating your Mediterranean Chickpea Soup lies in the careful balance of spices. Smoked paprika not only adds warmth but also a subtle smokiness that complements the chickpeas beautifully. When adding your spices, make sure to toast them briefly in the pot with the aromatics—heat them for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This technique enhances their flavors and infuses the soup with a savory depth that transforms a simple dish into a flavorful experience.

Fresh herbs like parsley are crucial for finishing the soup. While they make a beautiful garnish, they also contribute a burst of freshness that counteracts the earthy chickpeas and vegetables. I recommend adding some chopped parsley right before serving to preserve its vibrant flavor. Alternatively, a sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten the soup, adding a tangy note that complements the richness of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don't hesitate to customize this soup according to your preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, if you're out of canned chickpeas, dried ones can be used instead—just remember to soak and cook them beforehand. Adding other leguminous options like white beans or lentils can also provide varied textures while maintaining the nutritional benefits. Depending on the legumes used, adjust your liquid proportions as necessary to achieve the desired consistency.

Vegetable broth is delicious, but for those needing a low-sodium option, you can easily use water along with a splash of soy sauce or tamari for depth. Also, consider adding zucchini or spinach if you have them on hand; they're quick-cooking additions that enhance the nutrition without much fuss—just toss them in during the last 5 minutes of simmering.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make a delicious pot of Mediterranean Chickpea Soup.

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you'll be set to create a comforting and flavorful soup!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Mediterranean Chickpea Soup.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 25 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

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

Enjoy your warm and hearty bowl of Mediterranean Chickpea Soup!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition. You can also adjust the spices based on your preferences for more heat or flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Mediterranean Chickpea Soup is a fantastic candidate for meal prepping. You can make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days, allowing the flavors to develop even further. Alternatively, freeze portions of the soup in airtight containers for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm it over medium heat; if it seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.

If you plan to store leftovers, it's best to keep the soup separate from any toppings, particularly fresh herbs or garnishes. This way, the herbs will remain vibrant and flavorful when it's time to serve. I often freeze just the soup and add fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice when reheating, ensuring that each bowl is as good as when it was first made.

Variations to Try

Feel free to play with the vegetables in this soup! Adding diced bell peppers, sweet potatoes, or even kale can provide additional flavors and textures. Just remember to adjust cooking times for denser vegetables like sweet potatoes, which may require an extra 5-10 minutes of simmering to become tender while maintaining a good bite.

For a protein boost, consider adding diced tofu or tempeh during the simmering stage. This not only enhances the nutritious profile of the soup but also contributes a hearty element. You can also switch up the herbs; instead of parsley, try cilantro for a different flavor or add a bay leaf during cooking, removing it before serving for an additional aromatic experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or can be frozen for longer preservation.

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand. Make sure they are tender before adding them to the soup.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

A side of crusty bread or a simple green salad pairs wonderfully with this soup.

→ Is this soup vegan-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan, making it a great option for everyone!