Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried split peas; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love how comforting and nourishing this Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup is! As a busy person, I often rely on my slow cooker to make delicious meals with minimal effort. The combination of split peas, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs creates a hearty soup that warms the soul. Plus, the slow cooking process melds all the flavors beautifully, providing an exceptional taste without spending hours in the kitchen. This soup is perfect for meal prepping, and I can't wait to share it with you!

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:52:14.019Z

When I first discovered split pea soup, I was amazed by how simple yet delicious it could be! I experimented with various ingredients and finally found the perfect balance of flavors that make this Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup truly stand out. What I love most is throwing everything into the slow cooker in the morning, allowing it to simmer all day while I go about my routine. The aroma that fills the house is simply irresistible!

One particular tip I can share is the importance of rinsing the split peas before adding them to the crockpot. Not only does this help remove any debris, but it also enhances the soup's texture. After hours of slow cooking, comes a creamy, rich soup that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and low in calories but high in flavor
A one-pot meal that's ideal for busy weeknights
Perfectly creamy texture thanks to slow cooking

      

Understanding Split Peas

Split peas are the star of this soup, offering a wealth of nutritional benefits. They are high in protein and fiber, making this dish not only filling but also conducive to digestive health. The great thing about split peas is that they don’t require pre-soaking, so you can simply rinse them and toss them into the crockpot. When cooked, they break down beautifully, creating a natural creaminess that enhances the texture of the soup.

When choosing split peas, you'll find green and yellow varieties. Green split peas have a stronger flavor and hold their shape better, while yellow split peas are slightly sweeter and more delicate in flavor. Either works well in this recipe, but if you’d like a more earthy taste, opt for green. If using yellow, you might find the soup is a tad milder, so consider adding more herbs or spices to balance it.

Enhancing Flavor

The aromatics in this split pea soup play a crucial role in creating a deep, savory base. Onions, garlic, and celery build a flavor profile known as the mirepoix. To deepen the savoriness, you can sauté these vegetables in the olive oil for about 5-7 minutes until they become translucent before adding them to the crockpot. This step unlocks more flavor and makes your soup richer, although it's perfectly fine to skip if you're short on time.

For an extra layer of complexity, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice just before serving. This little touch brightens the flavors and cuts through the creaminess, giving the soup a lovely balance. Additionally, fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be sprinkled on top for a fresh finishing touch.

Storing and Reheating

This soup is ideal for meal prep as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week. To store, simply let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in portions for up to three months. Just make sure to leave some space in your container as soups tend to expand when frozen.

When reheating, the soup may thicken due to the absorption of liquid by the split peas. Add a little vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency as you heat it up on low heat. If using a microwave, stir every couple of minutes to ensure even heating. Always taste and adjust seasoning, as the flavors may intensify in storage.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious soup.

Ingredients

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

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

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your soup.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, dice the onion, chop the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic. This will enhance the flavor base of your soup.

Add Ingredients to Crockpot

Place rinsed split peas, vegetable broth, prepared vegetables, thyme, bay leaf, olive oil, salt, and pepper into the crockpot.

Set the Cooker

Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the peas are tender.

Blend for Creaminess

Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and, if desired, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot!

Enjoy your healthy, homemade split pea soup!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding diced ham or smoked sausage during cooking for a heartier version.

Making it Vegan

This Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup is naturally vegan, but for those looking to intensify the plant-based aspect further, consider adding diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for added sweetness and nutrition. Both vegetables will cook down nicely in the crockpot, complementing the earthy flavors of the peas while contributing additional vitamins and minerals.

Another excellent addition for a vegan twist is nutritional yeast, which provides a cheesy flavor and boosts the umami profile of the dish. Stir in a couple of tablespoons during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a rich flavor without any dairy.

Possible Variations

Feel free to customize this soup to match your preferences. You might add chopped potatoes or spinach for additional texture and nutrition. Just be aware that if you add leafy greens like spinach, you should do so during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking and retain their vibrant color and nutrients.

For spiciness, a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños can be included at the beginning of cooking, or top each bowl with a drizzle of hot sauce for a kick when serving. Experimenting with different herbs such as rosemary or basil can also offer delightful variations in flavor.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you notice your soup is too thick once cooked, it's an easy fix! Simply stir in some additional vegetable broth or water and allow it to warm through before serving. Be sure to check the seasoning as well, as adding liquid can dilute the flavors.

Sometimes, split peas can be undercooked if they are aged or improperly stored. If you find they aren’t softening after the suggested cooking time, increase the cooking time by an hour on low or 30 minutes on high, adding a little more broth if needed to keep the soup from drying out.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze split pea soup?

Yes! Split pea soup freezes well. Just store it in airtight containers and reheat when you're ready to enjoy.

→ Can I substitute chicken broth for vegetable broth?

Absolutely! If you prefer a non-vegetarian version, chicken broth can be used for added flavor.

→ How can I thicken the soup further?

For a thicker consistency, add more split peas or use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add vegetables like potatoes, spinach, or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.