Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried split peas, rinsed; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup for its warmth and nutritional benefits. The combination of split peas, vegetables, and spices creates a wholesome meal that's perfect for a chilly day. Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while I go about my day. Plus, it’s so convenient to have a nourishing soup waiting for me at dinner time. This recipe is not only tasty but also easy to prepare, making it a staple in my home during the fall and winter months.

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-06T09:31:11.137Z

When I first decided to make this Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup, I was looking for a way to incorporate more plant-based meals into my diet. I found that using a crockpot not only simplifies the cooking process but also brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and the earthiness of the split peas. I often add a splash of apple cider vinegar just before serving, which brightens up the flavors and makes each bite delightful.

As I experimented with different seasonings, I learned the importance of allowing the soup to cook slowly. I typically let it simmer for at least 8 hours, which ensures the peas become perfectly tender and the broth develops a rich flavor. It's truly rewarding to come home to a warm bowl of this soup after a long day!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Wholesome ingredients packed with protein and fiber
Rich, hearty flavor that satisfies
Convenience of a set-it-and-forget-it recipe

      

Ingredient Insights

Split peas are the star ingredient in this soup, providing not only a creamy texture but also a hefty dose of protein and fiber. They cook down beautifully and break apart, thickening the soup naturally as they become tender. For best results, ensure your dried peas are fresh, as older peas may take longer to cook and could remain tough even after lengthy cooking.

The vegetables in this recipe—onions, carrots, and celery—create a flavor base known as mirepoix, a classic foundation in many soups and stews. The onions add sweetness, while carrots bring earthiness and color. The celery contributes a subtle crunch and depth of flavor. If you're looking to mix things up, feel free to add bell peppers or even diced potatoes for added texture.

Cooking Technique

Cooking in a crockpot allows the flavors to meld seamlessly over the long cook time. Set your slow cooker on low for 8 hours to let the split peas fully soften and absorb the herbal notes from thyme and bay leaf. If you're short on time, you can cook on high for about 4 hours, but the flavor development won't be as rich. Regular stirring isn’t mandatory but does help distribute the heat evenly for consistent cooking.

For those who appreciate a smooth soup, blending is a great option. I recommend using an immersion blender—this tool is perfect for pureeing soups directly in the pot, minimizing mess and cleanup. If you're aiming for a chunky texture, simply skip this step and serve as-is; the natural thickness from the split peas will still create a satisfying dish.

Ingredients

For the Soup

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

Adjust seasoning to your preference before serving.

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients

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

Add to Crockpot

Transfer the mixture into a crockpot and add vegetable broth, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until peas are tender. Stir occasionally if possible.

Final Touch

Remove the bay leaf, and blend the soup if you prefer a smoother texture. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve warm and enjoy the hearty goodness!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating a smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.

Storage and Reheating

This Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup is excellent for meal prep. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually continue to improve as they sit, making it delicious even a few days later. Just be aware that it may thicken as it cools; adding a splash of vegetable broth during reheating can help restore its desired consistency.

If you want to keep the soup longer, consider freezing it. Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty soup with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread to create a balanced meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or a drizzle of olive oil can enhance the presentation and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for creaminess and tang.

This soup also pairs well with a simple side salad, lightening the meal and adding freshness. For those who want to boost the protein content even further, consider adding diced cooked ham or turkey; they complement the split peas wonderfully. You can also sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top before serving for a delightful crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen peas instead of dried?

Frozen peas will not work as well in this recipe, as they don't require as long to cook and won't provide the same thickness.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

This soup is already vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by ensuring that the vegetable broth is free from animal products.

→ Can I add meat to this soup?

Yes! Adding diced ham or bacon can enhance the flavor; just be sure to adjust the salt content accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.