Minestra Di Ceci Recipe: Easy Italian Chickpea Soup Guide

There is something truly comforting about a warm bowl of minestra di ceci, a traditional Italian chickpea soup that is as hearty as it is nourishing. This rustic dish has been a staple in Italian households for centuries, prized for its simple ingredients and rich flavors.

Whether you’re seeking a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a wholesome lunch to power through the day, this soup ticks all the boxes. The creamy texture of tender chickpeas combined with fragrant herbs, garlic, and a touch of olive oil creates a delightful harmony that will satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul.

The beauty of minestra di ceci lies in its versatility — it can be adapted with seasonal vegetables, enriched with pasta or greens, or kept purely vegan for a light yet filling dish. You’ll find this recipe is not only straightforward but also highly rewarding, perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This minestra di ceci recipe is a celebration of simple, wholesome Italian cooking. Here’s why it will become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Nutritious and filling: Chickpeas are packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making this soup a hearty meal on its own.
• Easy to prepare: With pantry staples and minimal fuss, you can have this delicious soup ready in under an hour.
• Flexible and adaptable: Customize it with whatever vegetables or herbs you have on hand, making it perfect for any season.
• Budget-friendly: Chickpeas and simple aromatics are inexpensive ingredients, making this an economical meal option.
• Heartwarming flavors: Slow simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting, aromatic broth.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried chickpeas (or 4 cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed)
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian version)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Crusty bread, for serving (optional)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander or sieve (for rinsing chickpeas)
• Blender or immersion blender (optional, for creamy texture)
• Bowl and ladle for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the chickpeas: If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight in plenty of cold water. Drain and rinse before cooking. If using canned chickpeas, skip this step.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
3. Add garlic and herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute until garlic is fragrant but not browned.
4. Add chickpeas and broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the drained chickpeas. If using dried chickpeas, add enough broth or water to cover them by about 2 inches.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer gently for about 1 to 1.5 hours if using dried chickpeas, or 30 minutes if using canned, until the chickpeas are tender.
6. Add tomato paste and season: Stir in the tomato paste for depth of flavor (optional). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue simmering uncovered for another 10 minutes to let flavors meld and broth thicken slightly.
7. Blend for creaminess (optional): For a thicker, creamier texture, use an immersion blender to puree about one-third of the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer a portion to a blender, puree, then return it to the pot.
8. Garnish and serve: Remove the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls, drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese if using.

Tips & Variations

“Soaking dried chickpeas overnight not only reduces cooking time but also improves digestibility.”

• Use canned chickpeas for a quick version: This saves soaking and long cooking times, ideal for busy weeknights.
• Add greens: Stir in chopped kale, spinach, or Swiss chard in the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra nutrients and color.
• For a smoky twist: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to deepen the flavor.
• Include small pasta: Add a handful of ditalini, orzo, or broken spaghetti 10 minutes before the soup finishes cooking.
• Make it vegan: Use vegetable broth and omit cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This soup shines when paired with simple, rustic sides that complement its earthy flavors. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

• Crusty Italian bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the savory broth.
• Fresh green salad: A light arugula or mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Grilled vegetables: Roasted zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers add a smoky contrast.
• Cheese plate: Serve alongside slices of Pecorino Romano or aged Parmesan for extra indulgence.

Conclusion

Minestra di ceci is more than just a soup — it’s a delicious expression of Italian tradition, showcasing the magic that simple ingredients can create when treated with care. This recipe offers a cozy, nourishing meal that fits effortlessly into any weeknight dinner or leisurely weekend lunch.

Its adaptability means you can tailor it to your preferences and pantry, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Whether you’re new to Italian cooking or a seasoned enthusiast, this hearty chickpea soup will warm your heart and satisfy your appetite. Don’t forget to try pairing it with some of your favorite side dishes, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this timeless classic.

Buon appetito!

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