Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 (15 oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 3-4 cups low sodium vegetable broth
Additional Ingredients
- 1/3 cup sundried tomatoes in oil, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk (canned) or 1/2 cup heavy cream (non-dairy options available)
- 2-3 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Simmer the Base: Stir in the chickpeas and tomato paste. Pour in the vegetable broth and mix well. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to blend.
- Blend Half the Soup: Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree about half the soup until smooth and creamy. This step thickens the soup while maintaining chickpea texture in the remaining portion.
- Add Final Ingredients: Stir in chopped sundried tomatoes, lemon juice, coconut milk or cream, and fresh spinach. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the spinach wilts and flavors meld. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve & Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm, optionally with toasted bread on the side for a complete meal.
Notes
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
- For a thicker soup, blend more of the chickpea mixture.
- Use canned coconut milk for richness, or substitute with heavy cream for a non-vegan version.
- Sundried tomatoes in oil add depth; if using dry, rehydrate in warm water first.
- Serve with crusty or toasted bread for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan