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: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green split peas; 1 cup yellow split peas; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 bay leaves

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup on those chilly days when I crave something warm and comforting. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the heavy lifting. Not only does it fill your kitchen with an enticing aroma, but it's also chock-full of nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Plus, the flavor only gets better the longer it simmers, making this soup perfect for meal prep. It's a nourishing dish I always look forward to enjoying.

Created by

Natalie Warren

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:16:10.183Z

When I first tried making split pea soup, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create something so delicious. I started experimenting with different herbs and spices, and found that a dash of cumin added a unique depth of flavor that really elevated the dish. Cooking it slowly in the crockpot gave me a rich, creamy texture without the need for heavy cream or additional fats.

Another tip I've learned is to use both green and yellow split peas to give a lovely color contrast. Plus, I always add in some diced carrots and celery for a punch of sweetness and texture. This soup is not only hearty but also a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Wholesome ingredients that make for a nourishing meal
Rich flavors that deepen with each passing hour of cooking
Perfect for freezing and enjoying later!

      

Understanding Split Peas

Split peas are not just versatile; they bring exceptional nutritional value to this soup. High in protein and fibre, they create a feeling of fullness, making this dish both satisfying and healthy. Green split peas tend to be slightly sweeter and firmer than yellow peas, which impart a creamier texture. When combined, they balance each other, resulting in a rich, hearty soup that has depth and character. This combination also adds to the visual appeal of the dish with varying hues of green and yellow.

When preparing split peas, it’s important to remember that they do not require soaking like some other legumes. However, rinsing them thoroughly helps eliminate any dust or debris. I recommend checking for any discolored peas or small stones before cooking, as this step ensures the quality of your soup. Always opt for fresh peas, as older ones might take longer to cook and can become overly mushy when cooked.

Perfectly Prepping Your Vegetables

The flavor base in this Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup comes primarily from the vegetables. Dicing the onion, carrots, and celery into uniform pieces ensures even cooking and consistent texture in the final soup. I suggest cutting them into pieces no larger than half an inch, allowing them to soften appropriately in the slow cooker. The aromatics release their essence, creating a fragrant backdrop that complements the earthiness of the split peas beautifully.

If you're short on time, feel free to use pre-diced or frozen vegetables as a shortcut. However, fresh ingredients will elevate the flavor profile of the soup. Also, consider adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors; this small step can transform the entire dish!

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the best things about this split pea soup is its make-ahead potential. It actually develops even richer flavors after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. Store any leftovers in airtight containers for up to five days. If you want to enjoy it later, consider portioning it out for easy reheating. This soup freezes exceptionally well; just be sure to use freezer-safe bags or containers and label them with the date.

When reheating, you may notice the soup has thickened. Don’t hesitate to add a little more vegetable broth or water to bring back the desired consistency. Heat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in intervals, stirring in between for even heating. This way, you’ll have a warm, comforting meal ready to go anytime!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start your soup:

Ingredients

1 cup green split peas
1 cup yellow split peas
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 bay leaves

These ingredients come together for a hearty and satisfying soup!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your soup:

Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse the split peas thoroughly under cold water, then drain. Prepare the vegetables by dicing the onion, carrots, and celery.

Combine in the Crockpot

In the crockpot, add the rinsed split peas, diced vegetables, garlic, thyme, cumin, bay leaves, and vegetable broth.

Cook

Set your crockpot to low and cook for about 4 hours, or until the peas are tender and the soup is thickened. Stir occasionally.

Season and Serve

Remove the bay leaves, then season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup, then serve warm.

Enjoy your warm and healthy soup!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some smoked paprika or a splash of lemon juice just before serving.

Flavor Variations

While the base recipe is delicious, don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices. For a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. If you enjoy a touch of sweetness, adding a chopped sweet potato or a dash of maple syrup can provide an interesting twist. Herbs like rosemary or dill can also be beautiful complements; just add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their fresh flavor.

Another delightful variation is to stir in some fresh greens like spinach or kale during the last half hour of cooking. This addition not only boosts nutrition but also adds a vibrant color to the dish. If you want to make it more substantial, consider incorporating cooked ham or bacon for a hint of smokiness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your soup is too thick, it’s likely due to the nature of split peas absorbing liquid as they cook. Simply stir in additional vegetable broth or water in small increments until you reach your desired consistency. Also, keep in mind that the heat from the crockpot can vary, so ensure you’re checking the doneness of your peas every hour to prevent overcooking. If they start to fall apart too much, try blending only half the soup to maintain some texture.

In case you find the soup lacking in flavor after cooking, taste it and adjust the seasoning. It’s always a good idea to add salt gradually; start with just a pinch, stir well, then taste again. Since the soup will continue to develop flavor as it sits, it's best to hold off on too much seasoning until you're ready to serve to avoid it becoming overly salty.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze split pea soup?

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

→ How long does leftover soup last in the fridge?

Leftover soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding diced ham or bacon can enhance the flavor significantly. Just add it at the beginning of the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with the soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.