Name: Best Garlic Chickpea Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Optional: 2 cups baby spinach or chopped kale; Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Best Garlic Chickpea Soup is a cozy, nourishing bowl of comfort I love making when I want something simple, hearty, and full of flavor. It features creamy chickpeas simmered with garlic, herbs, and vegetables in a flavorful broth. Whether I’m looking for a meatless meal or a light, satisfying lunch, this soup always hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, budget-friendly, and packed with plant-based protein. The garlic brings bold flavor, while the chickpeas give it a creamy, filling texture—especially when I partially mash them into the broth. It’s easy to customize with whatever vegetables or herbs I have on hand, and it keeps well for meal prep. Plus, it tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Onion, chopped
Carrots, chopped
Celery, chopped
Cooked chickpeas (canned or homemade)
Vegetable broth
Bay leaf
Fresh thyme or rosemary (or dried herbs)
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon juice (for brightness)
Optional: baby spinach or kale, red pepper flakes

Directions

I heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then sauté the onion, carrot, and celery until softened, about 5–6 minutes.
I stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
I add the chickpeas, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and herbs, bringing everything to a gentle boil.
I reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15–20 minutes to blend the flavors.
I use a spoon or potato masher to gently mash some of the chickpeas in the pot to thicken the soup.
I season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten it up.
If I’m adding greens like spinach or kale, I stir them in at the end and cook until wilted.
I remove the bay leaf and serve hot with crusty bread or a sprinkle of parmesan if I’m feeling extra cozy.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add a dash of smoked paprika or cumin for a deeper flavor. If I want a creamier texture, I blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender. I’ve also added cooked pasta or rice to make it more filling. When I have coconut milk on hand, I stir in a splash for a silky finish.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use dried chickpeas?

Yes, I cook them ahead of time until soft. Canned chickpeas are quicker, but dried ones work great if I plan ahead.

How do I make the soup thicker?

I mash some of the chickpeas while the soup simmers, or blend a portion of it for a creamier texture.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. I often toss in zucchini, potatoes, or bell peppers depending on what I have in the fridge.

Is this soup vegan?

Yes, as long as I use vegetable broth and skip any dairy toppings, it’s completely vegan.

What can I serve with this soup?

I usually enjoy it with crusty bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Conclusion

Best Garlic Chickpea Soup is one of those recipes I turn to again and again when I want something warm, wholesome, and easy. It’s loaded with flavor, simple to make, and endlessly flexible. Whether I’m cooking for one or prepping meals for the week, this soup is always a satisfying choice that makes me feel good with every spoonful.