Italian Chickpea Soup

The first time I made Italian Chickpea Soup, I was cozying up on a chilly winter evening, craving something warm and nourishing. As the snow fell outside, I rummaged through my pantry and found chickpeas, vegetables, and some herbs—ingredients that would soon transform into a bowl of comfort. The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic filled my kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace. With each spoonful, the soup reminded me of my grandmother’s cooking, bringing back memories of family gatherings around the table. This dish is not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying solo while wrapped in a blanket.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Italian Chickpea Soup

When crafting the perfect bowl of Italian Chickpea Soup, the ingredients play a vital role in the overall flavor and texture. Each component complements the other, from the hearty chickpeas to the aromatic herbs. Let’s explore the key players that make this soup a fulfilling dish.

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided – This oil not only adds richness but also enhances the flavors of the vegetables when sautéed.
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped – The base for our soup, providing sweetness when cooked.
• 1 carrot, peeled and finely chopped – Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1 medium potato, peeled and finely cubed – Gives the soup a creamy texture when cooked.
• 1 garlic clove, grated – Infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic flavor.
• 2 cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained (15.5 oz each) – The star ingredient, offering protein and heartiness.
• 1 tablespoon rosemary leaves, finely chopped – Provides an earthy and aromatic quality.
• 1 teaspoon thyme leaves, finely chopped – Adds a fragrant herbal note to the soup.
• Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
• 4 cups vegetable stock – The liquid base that brings all the ingredients together.
• 9 oz short pasta (such as ditali, shells, or mezzi rigatoni) – Adds heartiness and texture, making the soup more filling.

Making This Italian Chickpea Soup

Creating Italian Chickpea Soup is an enjoyable process that fills the kitchen with warmth and inviting aromas. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying a bowl of comfort.

1. Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, it’s time to add the onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid browning it too much. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes.
2. Next, toss in the carrot and potato. Continue to sauté for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften a bit. The smell should be delightful as the carrot begins to release its natural sweetness.
3. Add the grated garlic, chickpeas, rosemary, and thyme to the pot. Stir everything together, letting the flavors meld for about 5 minutes. If the mixture looks too dry, add a splash of water to keep it from sticking.
4. Season the mixture with a generous pinch of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, adjusting to your taste. The seasoning is crucial for bringing out the best in the vegetables.
5. If you want a creamier soup, take out about a third of the vegetable and chickpea mixture and transfer it to a blender. Pour in a ladle of vegetable stock to help it blend smoothly. Blend until creamy, then return this mixture to the pot.
6. Pour in the remaining vegetable stock and cover the pot with a lid. Increase the heat to bring it to a boil, then reduce it back to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. This allows the flavors to deepen.
7. Afterward, add the short pasta to the pot. Stir it in gently, letting it cook for about 10 minutes or until it’s tender. Keep an eye on the texture; you want it al dente.
8. Once the pasta is cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you prefer more richness, drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the top before serving.
9. Finally, remove the pot from the heat. Divide the soup between four bowls, garnishing with extra black pepper if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy the comfort!

Change It Up

If you’re looking to customize Italian Chickpea Soup to suit your taste, you’re in luck! Here are some tips to help you make it your own.

• Storage: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container; it will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup without the pasta for up to 3 months. Just add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with fresh crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Veggie Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini to boost nutrition.
• Herb Swaps: Try using different herbs such as dill or parsley for a fresh twist.
• Cheese Finish: A sprinkle of grated cheese like parmesan on top before serving can add a delightful touch.

Serving Suggestions

If you’re wondering how best to serve your Italian Chickpea Soup, here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

• Perfect for Lunch: This soup makes an excellent lunch option; it’s filling yet light enough not to weigh you down.
• Family Dinner: Gather your loved ones and enjoy this soup as the main course on a chilly evening.
• Seasonal Pairing: It’s perfect for winter months, providing warmth and comfort during the cold.
• Accompany with Bread: Pair the soup with a nice slice of crusty bread for dipping; it complements the flavors beautifully.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Meal Prepping: Make a big batch on the weekend and portion it out for easy, healthy meals throughout the week.

FAQ

Conclusion

The essence of Italian Chickpea Soup lies in its comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients. It’s a heartwarming dish that not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul. I encourage you to try this recipe; it’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something healthy and filling. Plus, it’s easy to make and adaptable, so you can customize it to your liking. Enjoy every spoonful!

Italian Chickpea Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Italian Chickpea Soup is a warm, hearty dish packed with protein and flavor. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect when you crave something nourishing and wholesome. Make it tonight for a cozy meal that will leave you satisfied!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Soups

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

• Grater
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot
• Skillet
• Blender
• Saucepan
• Peeler

Ingredients

  

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil divided
• 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
• 1 medium carrot peeled and finely chopped
• 1 medium potato peeled and finely cubed
• 1 clove garlic grated
• 2 cans chickpeas rinsed and drained (15.5 oz each)
• 1 tablespoon rosemary finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon thyme finely chopped
• sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• 4 cups vegetable stock
• 9 oz short pasta (such as ditali, shells, or mezzi rigatoni)

Instructions

 

• Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir to avoid browning.
• Next, add the carrot and potato. Continue to sauté for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing them to soften. The smell should be delightful!
• Incorporate the grated garlic, chickpeas, rosemary, and thyme. Stir together and let cook for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of water if it looks too dry.
• Season with a generous pinch of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Taste the mixture to ensure it’s well-flavored.
• If you’d like a creamier texture, take out a third of the vegetable and chickpea mix and blend it with a ladle of vegetable stock. Return this back to the pot.
• Pour in the remaining vegetable stock, cover with a lid, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes.
• Add the short pasta to the pot, cooking for about 10 minutes or until tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
• Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as necessary. For extra richness, drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil before serving.
• Remove from heat and divide the soup into bowls. Garnish with additional black pepper if desired. Serve hot!

Notes

• Storage: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container; it will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup without the pasta for up to 3 months. Just add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with fresh crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Veggie Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini to boost nutrition.
• Herb Swaps: Try using different herbs such as dill or parsley for a fresh twist.
• Cheese Finish: A sprinkle of grated cheese like parmesan on top before serving can add a delightful touch.

Keyword Chickpea Soup, easy soup recipe, Italian soup, winter recipes

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Meet Bella Banks

I’m the one who makes sure we’re having fun while we work. I love the communal aspect of cooking seven friends in a kitchen can be chaotic, but it’s the best kind of chaos! I cook everything alongside the girls, and I’m often the one setting the table and making sure the “vibe” is right for our photos. I believe that any recipe, no matter how simple or complex, is a celebration.