As the chill of autumn begins to settle in, I find myself drawn to big bowls of warmth and comfort. That’s when I first whipped up my beloved Marry Me Chickpea Soup, a dish that had my friends swooning right from their first spoonful. Imagine a creamy, dairy-free broth filled with tender chickpeas, bright herbs, and the unmistakable warmth of spices. This delightful one-pot meal not only tantalizes your taste buds but also caters to a variety of dietary needs, making it perfect for both vegans and those avoiding gluten.
What I love most about this soup is its incredible versatility. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week ahead or looking to impress guests with a simple yet elegant dinner party dish, this soup ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, with minimal cleanup, meaning you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the cozy moments that matter. Let’s dive into the recipe that’s destined to become a staple in your home!
Why is Marry Me Chickpea Soup recipe worth trying?
Comforting Warmth: This soup provides an enveloping hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days.
Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with high-protein chickpeas and fiber-rich vegetables, it’s as satisfying as it is healthy.
Quick and Easy: With quick cooking time and minimal prep, dinner can be ready in no time.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch for the week and enjoy convenient meals without the fuss!
Flavor Explosion: The rich tomato and cashew cream blend create a mouthwatering experience that will keep you coming back for more.
Elevate your dinner game and bring cozy goodness into your kitchen with this Marry Me Chickpea Soup recipe!
Marry Me Chickpea Soup Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create the comforting goodness of Marry Me Chickpea Soup!
For the Cashew Cream
- Cashews – Adds creaminess to the soup base when blended; can substitute with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
- Dairy-Free Milk – Used in the cashew cream for a creamy texture; soy milk is recommended.
- Nutritional Yeast – Provides a cheesy flavor; can be skipped if unavailable.
For the Soup Base
- Olive Oil – For sautéing vegetables; water can be used for an oil-free version.
- Yellow Onions – Base flavor for the soup; finely diced for even cooking.
- Carrots – Adds sweetness and vibrant color; diced to incorporate easily.
- Red Bell Pepper – Enhances the sweetness and adds color; diced for texture.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Offers an intense umami flavor; both oil-packed or dry-packed are suitable.
- Garlic – Essential for flavor; minced for a robust aroma.
- Tomato Paste – Thickens the soup and adds richness; perfect for a concentrated tomato flavor.
For Protein and Broth
- Chickpeas – Main protein source; cooked to create a hearty base. Alternatives include butter beans or lentils for variety.
- Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth – Base for the soup; enhances flavor without high salt content.
For Heartiness
- Gnocchi – Introduces a comforting texture; ensure to use gluten-free gnocchi if required or substitute with diced potatoes for a gluten-free option.
For Freshness
- Fresh Parsley & Basil – Brighten up the flavor when stirred in just before serving.
- Baby Spinach – Adds nutrients at the end; can substitute with kale for a heartier option.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavor; added just before serving for a zesty kick.
For Seasoning
- Smoked Paprika, Garlic Powder, Dried Thyme, Chili Flakes, Sea Salt Flakes, Black Pepper – Essential spices to adjust seasoning to taste and create a flavor explosion in your Marry Me Chickpea Soup recipe!
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to creating a warm, nourishing meal that will leave everyone longing for a second helping!
How to Make Marry Me Chickpea Soup
Soak cashews: Begin by soaking your cashews in boiling water for about 20 minutes. This softens them and makes them easier to blend into a creamy texture. If you’re using a high-speed blender, you can skip this step!
Blend cashew cream: After soaking, drain the cashews and add them to your blender along with dairy-free milk and nutritional yeast. Blend until smooth and creamy, then set aside.
Sauté vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely diced yellow onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant.
Add more veggies: Toss in your diced carrots, red bell pepper, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften and sweeten.
Season it up: Stir in minced garlic along with smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, chili flakes, sea salt, and pepper. Let this mixture cook for 5 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and fill your kitchen with beautiful aromas.
Simmer the base: Add in the cooked chickpeas and vegetable broth to the pot. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10 minutes to deepen the flavors.
Cook gnocchi: Stir in the gnocchi and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until they are tender and have absorbed some of the soup’s rich goodness.
Incorporate cashew cream: Pour in your prepared cashew cream and mix it in well. Allow this to simmer for another 2 minutes, creating a delightful, creamy consistency.
Finish with freshness: Off the heat, fold in fresh parsley, basil, baby spinach, and squeeze in fresh lemon juice. Stir until the spinach has just wilted and the herbs are fragrant.
Taste and serve: Adjust seasoning to your preference and serve warm, savoring each comforting spoonful as it hugs your soul.
Optional: Garnish with extra herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for an added touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Chickpea Soup recipe components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cashew cream and sauté the vegetables (onions, carrots, bell pepper, and sun-dried tomatoes) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, follow the recipe starting from Step 6 by adding the prepared chickpeas and vegetable broth, then simmer for about 10 minutes before incorporating the gnocchi and cashew cream. This way, your soup will be just as delicious and comforting, ready to nourish you with minimal fuss on busy weeknights!
Marry Me Chickpea Soup Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful soup to fit your tastes and dietary needs.
Nut-Free: Swap cashews with sunflower seeds to make a creamy alternative that’s free from nuts.
Dairy-Free Milk: Any non-dairy milk works here, but try coconut milk for a richer flavor profile and delightful creaminess.
Extra Veggies: Toss in chopped zucchini or broccoli for extra nutrition and vibrant color. You can even sneak in some chopped kale for an earthy twist!
Herb Boost: Mix in fresh cilantro or dill for a refreshing herbal note that brightens up every spoonful.
Flavor Kick: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for an extra punch of heat that will awaken your taste buds.
Protein Swap: Replace chickpeas with lentils or butter beans for a different texture and taste, while still keeping it hearty.
Gnocchi Alternatives: For a gluten-free option, try using small-diced potatoes; they absorb the delicious broth beautifully as they cook.
Creamy Veggie Blend: Blend cooked cauliflower into the cashew cream for an ultra-smooth, creamy base without additional nuts.
With these variations, you’re all set to create your own beloved version of this comforting Marry Me Chickpea Soup!
What to Serve with Marry Me Chickpea Soup?
Pair this delightful vegan soup with sides that enhance its comforting flavors while creating a wholesome, balanced meal.
- Crusty Whole Grain Bread: A rustic loaf makes the perfect vessel for dipping, absorbing the rich broth and creaminess of the soup.
- Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the soup’s warmth and provides a burst of freshness. Consider adding nuts or seeds for crunch!
- Vegan Garlic Bread: Warm, toasty slices with a hint of garlic amp up the cozy factor and pair perfectly with the rich flavors of the soup.
For those looking to indulge further, how about a sweet touch? Finish the meal with a slice of dairy-free chocolate cake for a satisfying sweet treat! Add fresh fruit for a lighter option to cleanse the palate after that creamy goodness. Each pairing harmonizes beautifully, encouraging family and friends to savor every bite together!
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chickpea Soup
Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to retain its delicious flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without the gnocchi for up to 3 months. Once cooled, transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion while freezing.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding fresh gnocchi or a splash of water to adjust the consistency as needed.
Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare in bulk and portion out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Enjoy the nourishing Marry Me Chickpea Soup anytime!
Expert Tips for Marry Me Chickpea Soup
- Cashew Cream Prep: Soak cashews for 20 minutes to achieve a silky texture. If in a hurry, skip soaking with a high-speed blender.
- Herb Freshness: Add fresh herbs at the end to keep flavors bright. Incorporate spinach just before serving to preserve nutrients in your Marry Me Chickpea Soup recipe.
- Flavor Balancing: Taste and adjust seasoning frequently; start with less salt and build up according to your broth’s sodium content.
- Gnocchi Tips: For a gluten-free option, ensure you choose gluten-free gnocchi or swap it with small diced potatoes.
- Storage Wisdom: To maintain freshness, store the soup in an airtight container and layer fresh herbs on top to retain their vibrant flavor during reheating.
- Thicker Consistency: For a heartier soup, simmer longer before adding fresh herbs; this enhances the rich flavors and texture.
Marry Me Chickpea Soup Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting cashews for the cashew cream?
When selecting cashews, choose raw, organic cashews if possible for the best flavor and creaminess. Avoid any that are discolored or have off odors. If you have a nut allergy, sunflower seeds are a fantastic substitute—just be sure to soak them in boiling water for about 20 minutes as well, just like the cashews!
How should I store leftover Marry Me Chickpea Soup?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing it up. Avoid adding gnocchi to the soup you intend to save, as it can become mushy when reheated; cook fresh gnocchi to add later.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chickpea Soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze the soup without gnocchi for up to 3 months. Transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. Just remember to label your containers so you can enjoy your nourishing Marry Me Chickpea Soup later without confusion!
Help! My soup is too thick! How can I fix it?
If your soup turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply add some vegetable broth or water to adjust the consistency. I recommend adding in small increments, stirring well between additions until you reach your desired texture. If it’s not blended well, you can also use an immersion blender directly in the pot for smoother results!
Is this soup safe for my pet?
While chickpeas are not toxic to pets, this Marry Me Chickpea Soup contains seasonings and ingredients like garlic that can be harmful to dogs and cats. It’s best to keep this hearty dish out of reach from your furry friends—stick to a plain chickpea treat for them instead!
What allergens should I be aware of with this recipe?
This soup is naturally dairy-free and vegan, but it does contain nuts if you use cashews. If someone in your household has a nut allergy, I recommend substituting the cashews with sunflower seeds for the cashew cream. Always check the labels on packaged products, like vegetable broth and gnocchi, for any hidden allergens as well.
Marry Me Chickpea Soup Recipe: Cozy, Dairy-Free Goodness
Equipment
- - Blender
- - Large pot
- - Cutting board
- - Knife
Ingredients
For the Cashew Cream
- 1 cup cashews soaked for creaminess
- 1 cup dairy-free milk soy milk recommended
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast provides cheesy flavor
For the Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
- 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
- 2 medium carrots diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper diced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes oil-packed or dry
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste for richness
For Protein and Broth
- 1 can chickpeas cooked
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
For Heartiness
- 1 package gnocchi gluten-free if required
For Freshness
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh basil chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice added before serving
For Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon sea salt flakes adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper adjust to taste
Instructions
Steps
- Soak cashews in boiling water for about 20 minutes. If using a high-speed blender, skip this step.
- Blend the soaked cashews with dairy-free milk and nutritional yeast until smooth.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté diced onions for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add diced carrots, red bell pepper, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for another 10 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, chili flakes, sea salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Add cooked chickpeas and vegetable broth, cover, and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in gnocchi and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Incorporate the cashew cream and let it simmer for another 2 minutes.
- Off the heat, fold in fresh parsley, basil, spinach, and lemon juice.
- Adjust seasoning and serve warm.