This hearty Tuscan Chickpea Soup is packed with flavor and goodness! With tender chickpeas, fresh veggies, and a hint of herbs, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
You won’t believe how simple it is to make! I love whipping this up after a long day, and it pairs perfectly with crusty bread. Who doesn’t love dipping? 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a rich flavor to the soup. If you’re looking for an alternative, avocado oil works well too, or use vegetable oil for a lighter taste.
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas are super convenient, but if you prefer, you can use dried chickpeas. Just soak and cook them beforehand. Lentils can be a great substitute if you need a change.
Vegetable Broth: Use homemade if you can; it boosts flavor. For a lighter option, swap in water with extra seasonings. Chicken broth caters to meat-lovers and adds richness.
Crushed Tomatoes: If you’re out, tomato paste thinned with water can work in a pinch. Alternatively, fresh tomatoes can be diced and added as long as you cook them down a bit.
Spinach: Fresh is best, but frozen spinach can also be used. Just thaw and drain it before adding. Kale or Swiss chard are good alternatives too!
How Do You Perfectly Sauté Onions and Garlic?
Sautéing onions and garlic creates a flavorful base for your soup. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a medium heat; this helps cook without burning.
- Pour in the olive oil and let it heat up for a moment.
- Add chopped onions, stirring occasionally until translucent—about 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic last, cooking only 1 minute more. This prevents it from burning and becoming bitter.
Getting this step right makes all the difference in flavor, so take your time!
Tuscan Chickpea Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
For Serving:
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 20-25 minutes to cook. In just 35 minutes, you will have a hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This is where the base flavor of your soup starts!
2. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for about 1 minute until it releases a delicious aroma.
3. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Now it’s time to stir in the chickpeas, broth, crushed tomatoes, rosemary, and thyme. Season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Mix everything well and bring the mixture to a boil!
4. Simmer the Soup:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. This time allows all the intriguing flavors to blend beautifully!
5. Wilt the Spinach:
After simmering, toss in the fresh spinach leaves and stir until they wilt, which should take just 2-3 minutes. They add a lovely touch of color and nutrition!
6. Add a Zing of Lemon:
Remove the pot from heat and squeeze in the juice of half a lemon. This brightens up all the flavors, enhancing the taste of your soup.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls. If you’d like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. Serve immediately with a side of crusty bread for dipping!
Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting Tuscan Chickpea Soup—perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Different Beans Instead of Chickpeas?
Absolutely! You can substitute chickpeas with white beans like cannellini or navy beans, which will still provide a delicious texture and flavor in the soup.
Can I Make This Soup Thicker?
Yes! To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the chickpeas with a fork or use an immersion blender for a few seconds. Alternatively, add a small amount of flour or cornstarch mixed with water as a thickening agent.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion!
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh side salad, or even a light pasta dish. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich!