Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried split peas; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup on busy days when I want something comforting yet nutritious. The beauty of this recipe lies in how effortless it is; just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work while I attend to other tasks. The combination of split peas with fresh veggies creates a thick, satisfying soup that's not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber. It's a perfect meal to warm you up and keep you feeling satisfied!

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:01:10.684Z

When I first tried making split pea soup, I wasn't sure how the flavors would meld together, but I was pleasantly surprised! Using a slow cooker allows the split peas to break down into a creamy texture while absorbing all the goodness from the veggies and spices. I often add a bay leaf for an extra layer of flavor that really makes this soup pop.

This dish is incredibly versatile; I sometimes throw in a handful of spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added nutrition. The leftovers are even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Wholesome ingredients come together for a hearty meal
Nutritious and packed with protein and fiber
Easily adaptable with your favorite vegetables and spices

      

Understanding Split Peas

Split peas are the star ingredient in this recipe, providing not just flavor but also essential nutrients. When cooked, they become wonderfully creamy and soft, thanks to their natural starch content. This creaminess helps to thicken your soup without the need for any added flour or cream, making it a great option for those seeking to keep their meals lighter but still satisfying. Ensure you're using fresh split peas, as older peas may take longer to cook and can result in a less pleasant texture.

A common challenge with split peas is achieving the right consistency. Cooking on low for about four hours usually yields a perfect soup texture, but if you find your soup is too thick or the peas are not softening as expected, adding a bit more vegetable broth can help. This adjusts the liquidity while maintaining the rich flavors developed during cooking, ensuring your soup remains vibrant and aromatic.

Choosing Your Vegetables

The vegetables in this soup not only add essential vitamins but also contribute to the flavor profile. Carrots and celery bring a natural sweetness and depth, while onions add aromatic notes. For variations, feel free to substitute or add vegetables like spinach or kale towards the end of the cooking time, which will contribute color and additional nutrients without overpowering the dish. Just remember, hard vegetables should go in at the start to soften properly during the cooking process.

If you're looking for a flavor boost, consider adding a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or a splash of lemon juice right before serving. This adds brightness and balances the earthiness of the split peas and vegetables. Additionally, herbs like parsley or dill can enhance the dish; add them just before serving for a fresh finish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the fantastic aspects of this crockpot split pea soup is that it’s a perfect make-ahead meal. You can prepare it the night before by chopping your vegetables and storing everything in the crockpot insert in the fridge. In the morning, simply add your broth and set the timer. If you have a programmable crockpot, you can set it to start cooking just before you arrive home, ensuring a warm and wholesome meal awaits you after a long day.

Leftover split pea soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it a great option for weekly meal prep. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in individual portions. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This maintains the soup's texture and flavor beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious soup:

Soup Ingredients

1 cup dried split peas
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to rinse the split peas thoroughly before adding them to the cooker!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious soup:

Prepare Ingredients

Rinse the split peas under cold water until the water runs clear. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery into small pieces.

Add Ingredients to Crockpot

In your crockpot, combine the split peas, chopped onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, vegetable broth, bay leaf, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Cook the Soup

Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours, or until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened.

Blend (Optional)

For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup, or simply mash it with a potato masher.

Season and Serve

Remove the bay leaf, adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed, then ladle into bowls. Enjoy!

Serve warm, with some crusty bread for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, sauté the vegetables in a little olive oil before adding them to the crockpot. You can also add some smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your soup seems too watery after cooking, don't worry; this can be easily remedied. Allow it to simmer uncovered on the stove for a few minutes to evaporate some excess liquid, thickening the soup without losing any flavor. Conversely, if it’s too thick, gradually stir in additional vegetable broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

In case your split peas aren’t cooking down as expected, check the age and quality of your split peas. Older peas can take longer to cook and may not reach the same creaminess. If you suspect they’re past their prime, consider mashing a portion of the peas once they’ve softened to help thicken the soup further.

Flavor Enhancement Ideas

To amplify the flavor, think about incorporating smoky elements such as smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke early in the cooking process. This small addition adds a wonderful depth that complements the earthiness of the split peas without overpowering the dish. Experimenting with spices like cumin or coriander can also introduce a lovely warmth and complexity to your soup.

For garnishes, topping with diced avocados or a dollop of yogurt can introduce a creamy element that contrasts nicely with the soup's hearty consistency. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs or toasted pumpkin seeds right before serving for added texture and visual appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze split pea soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Just let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

Feel free to add diced potatoes, leeks, or a splash of vinegar for brightness.

→ Is this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.

→ How long does it last in the fridge?

It should be good for about 4-5 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.