Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon (Revithia)

Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon, known as Revithia, is a warm, comforting dish perfect for cozy winter nights. This hearty, wholesome soup is a staple in Greek homes and brings together the goodness of chickpeas, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all enhanced by the bright tang of fresh lemon juice. Whether you’re craving a nourishing meal or simply want a delicious vegan option, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients for Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful Greek chickpea soup:

• ½ cup olive oil, plus an additional 2 tablespoons, divided
• 1 large red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 celery sticks, sliced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano (or fresh, if available)
• 1 sprig rosemary, minced (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 1 bay leaf (for that extra depth of flavor)
• 2 cans (14 oz each) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 1 lb dry chickpeas, soaked and cooked)
• 750 ml (about 3 cups) vegetable stock (for a rich base)
• Juice of 2 lemons, freshly squeezed
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, but adds a fresh, vibrant kick)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon

1. Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating ½ cup of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and sauté it for 5-7 minutes, until the onion becomes tender and translucent. The olive oil will infuse the soup with a rich, Mediterranean base, setting the stage for the other ingredients.

2. Add Garlic and Herbs

Once the onion is ready, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to release its fragrance. Next, add the diced carrot, sliced celery, dried oregano, minced rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir everything together and let the flavors meld for about 2 minutes.

3. Add Chickpeas and Vegetable Stock

Now, introduce the chickpeas to the pot, followed by the vegetable stock. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, ensuring all the vegetables and chickpeas are well incorporated into the broth.

4. Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to deepen and the vegetables to soften. During this time, the chickpeas will infuse the broth with their natural richness, creating a hearty, comforting texture.

5. Add Lemon and Olive Oil

Once the soup has finished simmering, turn off the heat. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil for a silky texture and rich flavor. Then, squeeze the juice of 2 fresh lemons into the soup, giving it that characteristic Greek tang. Add fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness if you like.

6. Season to Taste

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. If you prefer a bit more tang, feel free to add more lemon juice.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it warm with a side of crusty bread for dipping. The bread will soak up the flavorful broth, making each bite even more satisfying. This soup is perfect for a light lunch or as a starter to a larger meal.

Tips for the Best Greek Chickpea Soup

• Adjust the consistency: If you find that the soup is too thick, simply add more vegetable stock to reach your preferred consistency. A thinner soup can be just as satisfying and refreshing, especially when paired with the richness of the chickpeas and lemon.
• Mash for a thicker texture: If you prefer a thicker soup, take a few spoonfuls of the chickpeas and mash them in the pot. Stir the mashed chickpeas back into the soup to create a creamier texture.
• Enhance with spices: Feel free to customize the flavors by adding a pinch of cumin, paprika, or red pepper flakes for extra warmth and spice.
• Make it in advance: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for a quick, easy meal throughout the week.

Nutritional Information per Serving

This nutritious and satisfying Greek Chickpea Soup offers a healthy meal option with the following benefits:

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Total Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 13g
• Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 13g

This soup is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. The fiber from chickpeas and vegetables makes it filling and satisfying, while the healthy fats from olive oil provide a rich, silky texture.

Why You’ll Love Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon

1. Wholesome and Nutritious

This Greek Chickpea Soup is packed with healthy ingredients like chickpeas, vegetables, and olive oil, offering a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. The soup is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it a great option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.

2. Easy to Make

Despite its complex flavors, this soup is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps and basic ingredients, you can have a wholesome meal ready in under an hour. It’s the perfect comfort food for busy days when you need something quick and satisfying.

3. Vegan and Gluten-Free

This soup is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. It’s also easily customizable—add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to make it your own.

4. Flavorful and Refreshing

The addition of fresh lemon juice and parsley gives this soup a vibrant, tangy kick that balances the richness of the olive oil and chickpeas. The herbs and spices provide depth, creating a complex flavor profile that’s as refreshing as it is satisfying.

Conclusion

Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon (Revithia) is a heartwarming dish that perfectly captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking. With its simple ingredients and fresh flavors, it’s a meal that’s both nourishing and comforting. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or as a starter, this soup is a must-try for anyone who loves healthy, flavorful meals.

Try this recipe today, and indulge in a bowl of warmth, flavor, and nutrition!