Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon (Revithia) Recipe

If you are looking for a comforting dish that wraps you in warmth and zest, look no further than the Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon (Revithia) Recipe. This traditional Greek soup harmoniously combines tender chickpeas, aromatic herbs, and the bright freshness of lemon juice. It’s a splendidly simple yet deeply flavorful recipe that can easily become a staple in your kitchen, perfect for cozy dinners or when you simply crave something wholesome and soul-satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this soup lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role, contributing to the rich flavor layers, silky texture, or vibrant color that make this dish truly irresistible.

• Olive oil, 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons: Adds richness and forms the perfect base for sautéing the vegetables and layering flavor.
• 1 large red onion: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth when softened, enhancing the bouquet of the soup.
• 2 cloves garlic: Imparts an aromatic punch that wakes up the palate without overpowering the other ingredients.
• 2 celery sticks: Offers a gentle crunch and freshness that balances the earthiness of the chickpeas.
• 1 carrot: Adds natural sweetness and a splash of color, making every spoonful inviting.
• 2 tablespoons oregano: Introduces a classic Mediterranean herb flavor that ties the soup to its Greek roots.
• 1 sprig rosemary, minced needles only: Infuses the soup with a pine-like fragrance that complements the earthiness of the legumes.
• 1 bay leaf: Elevates the aromatics with an herbal undertone, enriching the broth’s complexity.
• 2 cans (400 g / 14 oz each) chickpeas or 450 g dry chickpeas: The hearty star ingredient, providing protein and a creamy texture.
• 750 ml (3 cups) vegetable stock: The flavorful base liquid that brings everything together in a luscious broth.
• Juice of 2 lemons: Injects vibrant acidity that brightens the soup and balances the richness.
• Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle of freshness and color right before serving, lifting the overall presentation and aroma.

How to Make Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon (Revithia) Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating half a cup of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Gently cook the diced red onion for about 1 to 2 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Then, add crushed garlic cloves and continue cooking for just 30 seconds to release their fragrance. This initial step builds a flavorful foundation that will carry throughout the soup.

Step 2: Incorporate Vegetables and Herbs

Next, toss in the diced carrot and celery sticks, along with the oregano, minced rosemary needles, and the bay leaf. Stir everything well, allowing the herbs to mingle with the softened vegetables. This combination ensures a complex herbal undertone that perfectly complements the richness of the chickpeas.

Step 3: Add Chickpeas and Stock, Then Simmer

Pour in the chickpeas—either canned or pre-soaked dry chickpeas—and the vegetable stock. Give everything a good stir to distribute flavors evenly. Bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and cover with a lid. Let the soup cook for 25 to 30 minutes, allowing the chickpeas to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Finish with Lemon and Olive Oil

When the cooking time is up, turn off the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the freshly squeezed juice of two lemons. For an extra fresh pop, sprinkle chopped parsley if you like. Taste and season with salt and black pepper to your liking, then give the soup one last stir before serving.

How to Serve Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon (Revithia) Recipe

Garnishes

This soup shines beautifully with simple garnishes. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of fresh chopped parsley add color and freshness that elevate the experience. A light sprinkle of cracked black pepper warms up each bite, while a few lemon wedges on the side let each person adjust the brightness to their taste.

Side Dishes

Serving this soup alongside crusty bread is a classic choice—it’s perfect for dipping and soaking up that delicious lemony broth. You could also consider a crisp green salad with Mediterranean flavors or some warm pita bread to keep the meal balanced and inviting.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic touch, serve the soup in wide, shallow bowls topped with a swirl of olive oil and fresh herbs. Or, turn it into a more elegant occasion by adding a dollop of thick Greek yogurt or crème fraîche right in the center, creating a creamy contrast to the zesty soup base.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon (Revithia) Recipe keeps very well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its fresh lemony aroma and keep the broth vibrant.

Freezing

You can freeze the soup for longer storage, up to 2 months. Make sure it cools completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers or bags. When thawed, you might notice a slight thickening which can easily be remedied by stirring in a splash of water or stock while reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to re-integrate any separated olive oil. Add extra lemon juice if needed to refresh the bright, tangy character of the soup.

FAQs

Can I use dry chickpeas instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just make sure to soak your dry chickpeas overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the soup. This will give you the best texture and flavor in the final dish.

Is this soup vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, the Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon (Revithia) Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free vegetable stock. It’s a perfect plant-based comfort food option!

How do I adjust the lemon flavor if I prefer it less tangy?

Start by adding the juice of one lemon and taste the soup before adding the rest. You can always add more lemon juice gradually until you reach your preferred brightness.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! While the traditional recipe is minimalist, you can experiment by adding diced tomatoes, spinach, or even potatoes to give the soup new layers of flavor and texture.

What’s the secret to a smooth, silky texture?

If you prefer a creamier consistency, take a portion of the cooked chickpeas and vegetables and puree them before stirring back into the soup. This creates a luscious body while still retaining lovely chunks for texture.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon (Revithia) Recipe is a celebration of simplicity and fresh flavors that warm you from the inside out. Its bright lemon notes and hearty chickpeas make it a dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying. I encourage you to give it a go—it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen, just as it is in mine.

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