Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried green split peas, rinsed; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup, especially on chilly days. There's something so comforting about a warm, creamy bowl of soup that fills the home with inviting aromas. I enjoy the simplicity of tossing all the ingredients into my slow cooker and letting it transform over the hours. The combination of green split peas and fresh vegetables creates a hearty meal, perfect for both lunch and dinner. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free choice for any day of the week.

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:40:14.104Z

When I first started experimenting with split pea soup, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to make in the crockpot. The slow cooking process really allows the peas to break down and the flavors to meld perfectly. I remember the first time I took a spoonful; I couldn't believe how creamy and rich it tasted, despite being completely vegan.

One of my favorite tips is to add smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor that takes the soup to the next level. It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference, enhancing the earthiness of the split peas and pairing beautifully with the veggies.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious ingredients that nourish your body and soul
Effortless preparation with no stirring required
Flavorful depth from slow cooking, perfect for meal prep

      

The Role of Split Peas

Dried green split peas are the star ingredient of this soup. Their unique ability to thicken the broth as they cook is unmatched, creating a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream. They provide a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making each bowl a satisfying meal. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove any debris and prevent bitterness in the final dish.

When cooking split peas, it’s important to consider their cooking time. They typically take around 2-4 hours in the crockpot, depending on your device’s temperature setting. If using a high setting, keep an eye on them after about 1.5 hours; they should be tender but not mushy. If overcooked, they can break down too much and lose the desired texture.

Enhancing Flavor with Vegetables

The combination of onion, carrots, and celery in this soup not only adds flavor but also contributes to its nutritional value. Onions provide a sweet base, while carrots lend a slight earthiness and vibrant color. Celery adds a refreshing crunch, which contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the split peas. Together, they form the classic mirepoix, a foundation for many soups and stews.

To enhance the flavor even more, consider sautéing the onion and garlic before adding them to the crockpot. This step can deepen the overall taste profile. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent and aromatic, which will give the soup an added layer of complexity.

Perfecting Your Soup

After blending the soup to your desired consistency, taste it before serving. Adjusting the seasoning is crucial; often, a little extra salt or a squeeze of lemon can brighten up the flavors significantly. If you prefer a heartier texture, leave some chunks of split peas intact while blending.

For meal prep, this soup stays well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to freeze leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring until heated through.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious and healthy soup:

Ingredients

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

These ingredients come together to create a nourishing meal.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your soup:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rinsed split peas, chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic.

Load the Crockpot

Transfer the prepared ingredients into your crockpot. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaf, thyme, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt.

Cook the Soup

Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. The split peas should be tender and break apart easily.

Final Touches

Once the cooking time is up, remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth if desired. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your healthy meal!

Enjoying the soup is the best part!

Pro Tips

For added creaminess, stir in a splash of coconut milk right before serving, or top with avocado slices for a fresh twist.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. For a complete meal, pair it with crusty whole-grain bread or a side salad. If you are looking to elevate it even further, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado on top for added creaminess and a dose of healthy fats.

If you want to spice things up, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a nice kick. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also provide a refreshing finish. Experiment with toppings like nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy, enhancing both taste and nutrition.

Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe calls for specific vegetables and seasonings, feel free to mix and match based on your preferences. For instance, sweet potatoes can be swapped in for carrots to add a different sweetness and texture. Alternatively, adding kale or spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking can boost the soup's nutrient content.

If you don’t have smoked paprika on hand, try substituting with regular paprika and a dash of liquid smoke if you want that smoky flavor. For those who need a lower sodium option, you can use low-sodium broth and adjust the salt to taste, keeping in mind that the ingredients will still provide plenty of flavor.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your soup comes out too thick, don’t worry! Simply stir in a bit more vegetable broth or water until you achieve your preferred consistency. If it’s too thin, let it cook a little longer uncovered to allow excess liquid to evaporate, thickening it naturally. This step is especially helpful if you want a more stew-like finish.

Should you find that the split peas haven’t fully softened after the suggested cooking time, it’s often due to the age of your peas. Older split peas can take longer to cook. If this happens, continue cooking on high, checking every additional 20 minutes until they reach tenderness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes! This soup freezes well. Just make sure to leave out any toppings until you are ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with split pea soup?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a simple sandwich.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I add meat to this soup?

Absolutely. Adding diced ham or bacon will introduce a lovely smoky flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.