Healthy Chickpea & Veggie Soup: A Southern Comfort in a Bowl
If you’re a soup lover, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of homemade soup—especially when it’s healthy, flavorful, and easy to make. My Healthy Chickpea & Veggie Soup is perfect for cozying up on chilly days, and it’s a true crowd-pleaser for anyone who enjoys a delicious and nutritious meal. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking for a healthier option, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This chickpea and veggie soup isn’t just healthy—it’s packed with flavor, warmth, and a touch of Southern love. Made with fresh veggies, tender chickpeas, and a delightful mix of herbs, it’s the perfect balance of taste and nutrition. Best of all, it cooks effortlessly in your crockpot or slow cooker, letting the ingredients meld together into a rich, comforting dish that will fill your home with an irresistible aroma.
Simple Ingredients, Maximum Flavor
One of the things I love about this soup is how easy it is to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need to make a pot full of healthy goodness:
- 8 cups of water – The base for a light yet flavorful broth.
- 1 tbsp Badia Complete seasoning – This all-in-one seasoning gives the soup that perfect blend of herbs and spices.
- 1 tsp black pepper and 1 tsp salt – For that classic seasoning balance.
- 1 tbsp dried basil – Adds a subtle, earthy sweetness.
- 2 tsp chicken bouillon powder – Enhances the savory flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1 cup of dried chickpeas
- 5 large potatoes, peeled and chopped – These make the soup extra hearty and satisfying.
- 2 cups chopped greens – You can use kale, spinach, or collard greens for a boost of vitamins and minerals.
- 2 cups chopped celery – Adds a crunchy, refreshing texture to the mix.
- 1 cup star-shaped pasta – A fun addition that makes this soup a hit with both kids and adults.
- 1 can of French onion soup – This gives the broth a rich, deep flavor that takes the soup to another level.
Cooking the Soup
Making this Healthy Chickpea & Veggie Soup couldn’t be easier! All you have to do is toss your ingredients into the crockpot or slow cooker, set it on low, and let it cook for 6-8 hours. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors deepen, creating a savory broth that is hard to resist.
The best part? It’s a vegan- and vegetarian-friendly recipe, so it fits into many dietary lifestyles. You can enjoy this soup as a main course or serve it alongside your favorite Southern cornbread for an extra touch of comfort.
The Health Benefits of Chickpea & Veggie Soup
This soup is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with health benefits. The potatoes and celery provide essential nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, which are great for heart health and digestion. The chopped greens offer a boost of antioxidants, vitamins A and K, and iron, while the star-shaped pasta adds a fun twist without compromising nutrition.
If you’re looking to add more protein to your meal, the chickpeas (which you can easily include in the recipe) are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this soup a hearty and filling option that will keep you energized throughout the day.
Why It’s Perfect for Soup Lovers Everywhere
Soup lovers everywhere will appreciate how versatile and adaptable this recipe is. Whether you’re a Southern food enthusiast or just someone looking for a healthy, filling meal, this chickpea and veggie soup is the perfect addition to your recipe collection. Plus, it’s an ideal make-ahead dish—prepare it in large batches and freeze leftovers for a quick, nourishing meal anytime you need it.
Conclusion
There’s nothing like a warm bowl of homemade soup to nourish both the body and soul. This Healthy Chickpea & Veggie Soup is a perfect example of how simple, wholesome ingredients can come together to create something truly magical. Whether you’re looking for a vegan-friendly meal or just a comforting dish packed with nutrients, this soup has something for everyone. So, grab your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and let the delicious aroma of this Southern-inspired soup fill your kitchen.
Don’t forget to share your thoughts and variations on this recipe in the comments below! I’d love to hear how you make this dish your own.
Healthy Chickpea & Veggie Soup
Equipment
- q large crock pot or slow cooker
Ingredients
- 8 cups of water
- 1 tbsp Badia Complete seasoning
- 1 tsp black pepper and 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- 2 tsp chicken bouillon powder
- 5 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 cups chopped greens
- 2 cups chopped celery
- 1 cup star-shaped pasta
- 1 can of French onion soup
- 1 cup of dried chickpeas
Instructions
- Prep the ingredients:Peel and chop the 5 large potatoes into bite-sized pieces.Chop 2 cups of greens (such as kale, spinach, or collard greens) and 2 cups of celery.
- Add ingredients to the crockpot:Pour 8 cups of water into your crockpot. Add the chickpeas, chopped potatoes, celery, and greens.Stir in 1 tbsp Badia Complete seasoning, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp dried basil.Mix in 2 tsp chicken bouillon powder for extra savory flavor. Pour in 1 can of French onion soup to give the broth a rich depth of flavor.
- Cook the soup:Cover your crockpot with the lid. Set the slow cooker to low heat and let it cook for 6-8 hours. This allows the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Add the pasta:In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in 1 cup of star-shaped pasta. This ensures the pasta doesn’t overcook and maintains a nice texture.
- Serve:Once the pasta is cooked and the soup has thickened slightly, it’s ready to serve! Ladle into bowls and enjoy this delicious, hearty, and healthy soup. Pair with a slice of cornbread or your favorite crackers for extra comfort.
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