Lemon Chickpea Orzo Soup

Contents:

1 cup orzo pasta
1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves of garlic, minced
6 cups vegetable broth
Juice and zest of 2 lemons
2 bay leaves
2 teaspoons dried thyme
Pepper and salt to taste
Olive oil for sautéing
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)