When you’re feeling under the weather, craving comfort, or just want something warm and soothing, nothing beats a bowl of noodle soup. This chickpea noodle soup is the plant-based twist on the classic chicken version — but just as cozy and nourishing.
Tender noodles, hearty chickpeas, and aromatic vegetables simmer together in a golden broth that feels like home in every spoonful. It’s easy to make, kid-friendly, and the ultimate comfort food with a lighter, vegan touch.
đź’ˇ Why This Recipe Works
- Comfort food reimagined. Classic flavors made fully plant-based.
- Protein-packed. Chickpeas make it hearty and filling.
- Simple ingredients. Everything you need is pantry- or fridge-friendly.
- Quick & easy. Ready in under 40 minutes.
đź›’ Ingredients
(Serves 4–6 bowls)
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon turmeric (optional, adds color & warmth)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Soup Base
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 oz (170 g) wide noodles (egg-free pasta or your favorite type)
To Finish
- Juice of ½ lemon (brightens the broth)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the veggies
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add garlic, thyme, oregano, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook until fragrant.
2. Build the broth
Pour in vegetable broth, chickpeas, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook 15 minutes for flavors to meld.
3. Add noodles
Stir in noodles and cook according to package instructions until tender (about 8–10 minutes).
4. Finish with freshness
Remove bay leaf. Stir in lemon juice and fresh herbs. Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve
Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm with bread or crackers on the side.
🔑 Tips for Best Results
- Cook noodles separately if you plan to store leftovers — they absorb broth quickly.
- Use hearty noodles. Wide egg-free ribbons, rotini, or shells work best.
- Brighten with citrus. A squeeze of lemon takes the flavor from good to great.
- Make it richer. Add a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream for a creamy version.
- Boost veggies. Add peas, spinach, or kale at the end for extra greens.
🌟 Variations to Try
- Spicy Chickpea Noodle Soup: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Mediterranean Twist: Stir in olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil.
- Ginger-Garlic Immunity Soup: Add grated ginger and extra garlic for a cold-fighting boost.
- Gluten-Free: Swap noodles for rice or gluten-free pasta.
🍽 Storage & Meal Prep
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze soup without noodles for up to 2 months; add fresh noodles when reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on stovetop, adding broth if needed to thin.
✨ Cozy, healing, and deeply satisfying, this chickpea noodle soup is proof that you don’t need chicken to make a classic feel-good meal. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want on repeat all season long.
