Orzo Lemon Soup with Chickpeas – Bright, Zesty & Plant-Based

Hi there, food lover! 👋

Ready for a bowl of sunshine today? Let’s bring some bright, zesty Mediterranean comfort straight into your kitchen with a classic that feels both refreshing and soothing. 🍋✨

Orzo Lemon Soup with Chickpeas – Bright, Zesty & Plant-Based is a beloved, humble dish that celebrates the harmony of citrus, broth, and tender pasta. Traditionally prepared in various Mediterranean homes, this soup manages to be both light and deeply satisfying—perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or anytime you crave something nourishing without being heavy.

The magic lies in the balance: silky orzo, hearty chickpeas, fragrant herbs, and a generous splash of lemon that wakes up every ingredient. It’s rustic, wholesome, and rooted in simple pantry staples. Each spoonful offers comfort with a spark of brightness, making it ideal year-round. Pair it with warm pita, crusty bread, or a crisp salad, and you have a timeless plant-based meal that always feels just right. 🌿🍲

Let’s get your pot simmering!

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Ingredients

🌱 Base & Aromatics

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced

🍋 Broth & Body

• 1 cup orzo
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1–2 lemons, juiced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

🌿 Finishing Touches

• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh dill or parsley (optional)
• Extra lemon wedges for serving

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic, carrots, and celery; cook for another 3 minutes.
4. Sprinkle in the oregano and let it bloom for 1 minute.
5. Add the orzo and stir briefly to coat it in the aromatics.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle boil.
7. Add the chickpeas and reduce heat to a steady simmer.
8. Cook for 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
9. Stir in the spinach or kale until wilted.
10. Add lemon juice and zest, adjusting to taste.
11. Season generously with salt and pepper.
12. Add more broth or water if the soup thickens too much.
13. Simmer 2 more minutes to meld flavors.
14. Taste again and adjust seasoning or lemon.
15. Ladle hot into bowls.
16. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra lemon wedges. 🍋😋

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Nutritional Information

⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes | 🔥 Cooking Time: 20 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 30 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~260 | 🍽️ Servings: 4

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Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️