Split Pea Soup
Yellow or green split pea soup with carrots, celery, onion, and herbs — naturally creamy when blended, no cream.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 50 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- b.Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook for 6 minutes until softened.
- c.Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme for 30 seconds until fragrant.
TIPKeep the heat at medium to prevent the garlic and paprika from burning and turning bitter. - 2
Step 2
- a.Add split peas, water, and the bay leaf to the pot.
- b.Cover and simmer for 45 minutes until the peas are very soft.
- c.Optionally blend half of the soup with an immersion blender for a creamier body.
TIPIf the soup thickens too much during simmering, add an extra half-cup of water. - 3
Step 3
- a.Remove and discard the bay leaf.
- b.Stir in the salt, black pepper, and fresh lemon juice.
- c.Fold in the fresh parsley just before serving.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend about one-third of the soup. For a completely smooth soup, blend it all.
- 2Split peas do not require pre-soaking, but rinsing them is essential to remove any dust or debris.
- 3The soup thickens significantly as it cools. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of water to thin it out.
- 4To build more flavor, add a teaspoon of liquid smoke along with the water.
- 5This soup freezes beautifully. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Adapt it for your goals.
High protein
For a non-vegetarian version, add a smoked ham hock with the peas and simmer as directed. Alternatively, stir in 1.5 cups of diced cooked ham or cooked crumbled sausage during the last 15 minutes.
healthyHealthy
To boost the vegetable content, add 1 cup of chopped leeks with the onions or stir in 2 cups of chopped spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
quickQuick
To speed up the cooking time, use a pressure cooker. Sauté the aromatics, then add the peas and water. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, followed by a natural release.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Blend the soup until completely smooth to hide the vegetable texture. Serve with a side of croutons or cheesy toast for dipping.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Split peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
High in Dietary Fiber
The high fiber content from split peas aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps you feel full and satisfied for longer.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
This soup is loaded with vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, providing essential nutrients like Vitamin A, Vitamin K, and potassium.
Heart Healthy
Being low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free, this soup supports cardiovascular health. The fiber in peas can also help manage cholesterol levels.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this version of split pea soup is very healthy. It's packed with plant-based protein and fiber from the peas, and full of vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables. It's naturally low in fat and vegan.