Hearty Pasta and Chickpea Soup

Name: Hearty Pasta and Chickpea Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 carrots (peeled and diced); 2 stalks celery (diced); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed, 540 mL); 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth); 1 1/2 cups dried pasta (such as ditalini or small shells); 1 can diced tomatoes (with juice, 796 mL); Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

45 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

Hearty Pasta and Chickpea Soup

A nourishing and filling pasta and chickpea soup, perfect for any meal.

Prep

15 min

Cook

30 min

Total

45 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

This hearty pasta and chickpea soup is a classic meal-in-a-bowl that combines the comforting textures of pasta with the earthy flavour of chickpeas. It's a staple in many households for its simplicity and its ability to warm you up on a cold day. Rich in protein and fibre, chickpeas make this soup not only filling but also nutritious. The added pasta gives it a satisfying bite, making it a perfect dish for lunch or dinner. It's a great way to enjoy a wholesome meal with minimal effort, and it's sure to become a family favourite.

Ingredients

Servings

Soup Base

Main Ingredients

Garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Pro tip: Ensure the garlic does not burn to avoid bitterness.

Add Herbs and Chickpeas

Stir in the dried thyme and oregano, followed by the drained chickpeas. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavours to meld.

Incorporate Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Pro tip: Use low-sodium broth to control the salt content.

Cook the Pasta

Add the dried pasta to the pot. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to al dente.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.

Season the Soup

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Pro tip: Remember that Parmesan cheese will add saltiness if you're using it as a garnish.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Pro tip: Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use canned chickpeas for convenience and save time.</li><li>Adjust the seasoning to your taste with more or less herbs.</li><li>For a thicker consistency, mash some of the chickpeas before adding them to the soup.</li><li>Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty pasta and chickpea soup with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with a light salad or a side of roasted vegetables. This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much. It's also suitable for freezing, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays.