As the chill of winter settles in, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Chickpea Tomato Soup to wrap you in a cozy embrace. The moment I ladle out this vibrant, hearty soup into my favorite bowl, I’m transported to a warm kitchen where the scents of sautéing onions and garlic mingle with the earthy aroma of chickpeas. Each spoonful is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, featuring tender vegetables and a rich tomato base that both comforts and nourishes.
What I love most about this soup is its versatility—it’s not just a remedy for a cold day, but a go-to for busy weeknights when I want something hearty yet quick. Plus, it beautifully caters to various dietary preferences, making it perfect for everyone at the table. Whether you’re gluten-free, vegetarian, or simply avoiding the fast food approach, this Chickpea Tomato Soup will delight your palate and be your new favorite meal option. Let’s dive into the recipe and transform those ordinary pantry staples into something extraordinary!
Why Choose Chickpea Tomato Soup Tonight?
Comforting Warmth: There’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm soup to wrap you in coziness after a long day.
Nutritious Goodness: Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with delightful flavors means more time to relax.
Customizable Delight: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste!
Crowd Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, it caters to various dietary needs, ensuring everyone is satisfied. Enjoy this delicious comfort food that will surely become a staple in your home!
Chickpea Tomato Soup Ingredients
For the Base
• Olive Oil – Enhances richness and depth; feel free to substitute with any neutral oil if you prefer.
• Chopped Onion – Adds sweetness and a foundational flavor; yellow or white onions work best for this recipe.
• Diced Carrots – Provides natural sweetness and a nice texture; can swap in parsnips for a unique touch.
• Diced Celery – Contributes a crisp balance to the sweetness; optional if you’re out.
• Garlic Cloves (minced) – Elevates flavor and aroma; fresh garlic is ideal, though powdered can work in a pinch.
• Canned Chickpeas (2 x 15 oz cans, rinsed and drained) – The star of the show! They add heartiness and fiber; you can also use other canned legumes if needed.
• Crushed Tomatoes (28 oz can) – Creates the soup’s rich base and brings acidity; fresh tomatoes can shine if they’re in season.
• Reduced Sodium Chicken Broth (3 cups) – Lends savory depth to the dish; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Fresh Rosemary Sprig – Enhances the flavor with a subtle herbal note; dried rosemary can be handy if you don’t have fresh on hand.
• Bay Leaves (2) – Infuse depth while cooking; remember to remove them before serving!
For the Finishing Touches
• Chopped Fresh Basil (2 tbsp) – Brightens up the dish with a touch of freshness; thyme can be an alternative herb.
• Fresh Black Pepper – Elevates the soup’s flavor; adjust it to your taste for the perfect finish.
• Fresh Baby Spinach (2 cups) – Adds color and nutrients to your soup; feel free to swap with kale or other greens.
• Shredded Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup, plus extra for garnish) – Contributes creaminess and umami; omit for a dairy-free version, and still enjoy the chickpea tomato soup!
How to Make Chickpea Tomato Soup
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Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic. Cook until tender and fragrant, about 6-8 minutes.
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Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a crockpot or large pot. Stir in the rinsed chickpeas, crushed tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, fresh rosemary, bay leaves, and basil.
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Cooking Methods:
- Crockpot: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours until flavors meld beautifully.
- Stove Top: Cover and simmer on low heat for approximately 30 minutes.
- Instant Pot: Cook at high pressure for 15 minutes, allowing for natural release afterward.
- Finish Soup: Stir in the fresh spinach, cooking until just wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove the bay leaves and rosemary sprig. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and garnish with extra parmesan cheese, if desired.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a delightful pairing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chickpea Tomato Soup
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Room Temperature: If you plan to eat your Chickpea Tomato Soup within a couple of hours, it can be safely left out at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Just remember to cover it to keep it warm and clean!
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled down before sealing to maintain freshness and flavor.
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Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.
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Reheating: To enjoy your Chickpea Tomato Soup, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain a creamy texture.
Variations & Substitutions for Chickpea Tomato Soup
Make this delightful soup your own with a few simple tweaks, allowing your creativity to shine through!
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Lentil Swap: Replace chickpeas with cooked lentils for an earthy flavor boost and a different texture. Lentils cook faster, so they might blend in even more seamlessly!
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Vegetable Medley: Add diced zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful twist and a hint of sweetness. These veggies can soak up the rich tomato flavors beautifully.
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Spice It Up: Toss in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat. This simple addition can elevate the flavor profile and warm you from the inside.
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Creamy Comfort: Enhance richness by stirring in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream just before serving. This creates a silky texture that pairs perfectly with the hearty soup.
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Protein Power: Substitute half the chickpeas with shredded rotisserie chicken for a heartier meal. This trick gives the soup an extra depth of flavor while keeping it comforting.
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Herb Variations: Swap fresh basil for fresh cilantro or parsley to change the soup’s aroma and taste. Each herb brings its own unique character, adding a touch of freshness.
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Dairy-Free Cheese: Use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free parmesan alternative instead of traditional cheese for a deliciously cheesy flavor without the commitment to dairy.
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Vegetable Broth: Naturally, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to cater to vegetarian or vegan diets, ensuring every sip remains bursting with flavor while staying plant-based.
Feel free to play around with these ideas—the beauty of this Chickpea Tomato Soup is that it’s just as much about the love you put into it as the ingredients!
Expert Tips for Chickpea Tomato Soup
- Rinse Chickpeas: Always rinse canned chickpeas well before adding them to the soup to reduce sodium content and enhance flavor.
- Sauté Thoroughly: Sauté the vegetables until they are slightly caramelized; this enhances the depth of flavor in your Chickpea Tomato Soup.
- Use Quality Broth: Opt for a high-quality broth—homemade or store-bought—since it significantly affects the overall taste of the soup.
- Cooking Times: Adjust cooking times based on your chosen method to prevent overcooking the spinach and losing its vibrant color.
- Flavor Boosters: Feel free to add spices like cumin or a splash of lemon juice at the end for an extra zing and to elevate the flavors even more!
What to Serve with Chickpea Tomato Soup?
As you enjoy your warm bowl of hearty soup, consider these delightful pairings that will elevate your meal experience.
- Crusty Bread: The perfect companion for scooping up every last drop, its crunchy texture complements the soup’s creaminess beautifully.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing, the gooey melt of cheese contrasts deliciously with the rich, tangy flavors of the soup. Cook your sandwich until golden brown for that extra crunch!
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast and add a burst of flavor to round out your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized enhances the earthiness of the soup while adding vibrant color and nutrition. It’s a delightful way to incorporate more greens!
- Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy, this nutty grain soaks up the soup and provides a protein-packed side that complements its comforting nature.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: Refreshing and palate-cleansing, this drink adds a zesty touch that balances the richness of the soup beautifully.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, the sweet flavors of soft, chewy cookies offer a nostalgic finish after your savory meal, delighting each member of the family.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful, juicy mix of seasonal fruits will cleanse your palate and provide a refreshing contrast to the heartiness of the soup. Enjoy the bright flavors!
- Chai Tea: For a cozy beverage, the warm spices and creamy texture of chai tea create a soothing experience that mimics the comfort of the soup itself.
- Cheese Board: A small selection of cheeses, olives, and crackers can make for an elegant appetizer, setting the tone for a comforting dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Chickpea Tomato Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can chop the vegetables—onion, carrots, and celery—up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to save time on weeknights. Additionally, you can combine the canned chickpeas, crushed tomatoes, broth, and herbs in the pot, refrigerating this mixture for up to 3 days before cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup, simply sauté the prepped vegetables, add the refrigerated mixture, and cook using your preferred method. This way, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready in no time, just as comforting as if it had been made fresh!
Chickpea Tomato Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe tomatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting tomatoes, look for ones that are firm yet slightly soft to the touch. The skin should be smooth and free of blemishes or dark spots. If you’re using fresh tomatoes for each spoonful of your Chickpea Tomato Soup, opt for the ones that are deep red in color and aromatic!
What’s the best way to store leftover Chickpea Tomato Soup?
Store any leftover Chickpea Tomato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Be sure to let the soup cool to room temperature before sealing it in the container to maintain its flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Chickpea Tomato Soup?
Very! To freeze, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What if my soup turns out too thick?
If your Chickpea Tomato Soup is thicker than you like, don’t worry! You can easily thin it out by adding a bit of extra broth or water, a splash at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Just keep stirring until well combined and warmed through!
Is this soup safe for people with dietary restrictions or allergies?
Absolutely! Chickpea Tomato Soup is vegetarian and gluten-free, making it a great option for various dietary needs. However, if you’re serving someone with a specific allergy, always double-check the labels on your canned ingredients to ensure they are free from potential allergens.
Can I add different vegetables to the soup?
The more the merrier! Feel free to customize your Chickpea Tomato Soup by adding vegetables like diced zucchini or bell peppers for added texture and flavor. Just chop them up and toss them in when you combine the ingredients in the pot. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!
Cozy Chickpea Tomato Soup for Comforting Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic. Cook until tender and fragrant, about 6-8 minutes.
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a crockpot or large pot. Stir in the rinsed chickpeas, crushed tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, fresh rosemary, bay leaves, and basil.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours in a crockpot, simmer on low heat for approximately 30 minutes on stove top, or cook at high pressure in an Instant Pot for 15 minutes allowing for natural release.
- Stir in the fresh spinach, cooking until just wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove the bay leaves and rosemary sprig. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and garnish with extra parmesan cheese if desired.