Hearty Vegan Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon

Introduction:

Warm up your taste buds with this delightful Vegan Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon. Bursting with Mediterranean flavors and packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup is both comforting and nutritious. With its zesty lemony twist and protein-rich chickpeas, it’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly evening or anytime you crave a cozy and satisfying meal. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this delicious soup step by step.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup orzo pasta
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, paprika, cumin, and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Add the Broth and Chickpeas:

  • Pour the vegetable broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  • Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas and diced tomatoes to the pot, stirring to combine.
  • Allow the soup to simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

3. Cook the Orzo:

  • Stir in the orzo pasta and continue to simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender but still slightly al dente.

4. Add Lemon Zest and Juice:

  • Once the orzo is cooked, remove the pot from the heat.
  • Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, adjusting the amount to taste.
  • Season the soup with salt and pepper as needed.

5. Serve and Garnish:

  • Ladle the Vegan Greek Chickpea Soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
  • Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or your favorite side dish for a complete and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Information:

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 220
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Dietary Fiber: 8g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 9g

Smart WW Points:

  • Each serving of this Vegan Greek Chickpea Soup is approximately 5 SmartPoints, making it a wholesome and satisfying option for anyone following the Weight Watchers program.

Conclusion: Indulge in the delightful flavors of the Mediterranean with this Vegan Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon. Packed with protein-rich chickpeas, aromatic herbs, and zesty lemon, this soup is a comforting and nutritious meal option for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or new to plant-based cooking, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the warmth and goodness of this hearty soup with every spoonful!