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Chickpea Swiss Chard Soup

healthy winter soup

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced (optional)
  • 2 celery stalks, diced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 bay leaf (optional)
  • 2 cups Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped separately from leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
  • Additional olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and chopped Swiss chard stems (if using). Sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent.
  3. If using, add carrots and celery and cook for another 2-3 minutes until starting to soften.
  4. Add minced garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir continuously for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add chickpeas and stir to coat with the aromatic mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
  6. Pour in vegetable broth and add bay leaf if using. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  7. Simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and vegetables to soften.
  8. Add chopped Swiss chard leaves and simmer for 3-5 minutes until wilted but still bright green.
  9. Optional: Use an immersion blender to partially blend some of the soup for a creamier texture.
  10. Stir in fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  11. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

  • For a thicker soup, blend about 1/3 of the soup or mash some chickpeas against the side of the pot.
  • This soup freezes well for up to 3 months in airtight containers.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat if desired.
  • For extra protein, add 1/4 cup quinoa with the broth.
  • Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chickpea Swiss Chard Soup, vegetarian soup, healthy winter soup, high protein soup, quick vegan soup