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 split peas, rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup on chilly days. The combination of flavors from the split peas, carrots, and herbs really warms the soul, and knowing it's packed with nutrients makes it even better. I appreciate how effortlessly it fits into a busy day; I can throw everything in the crockpot in the morning and come home to a deliciously hearty meal. Whether I enjoy it on its own or pair it with a salad, it always hits the spot.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-11T23:52:11.144Z

I remember the first time I made this Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup. I was curious to see if I could create a nutritious meal that tasted great and required minimal effort. The result was a flavorful soup that exceeded my expectations! The secret? Letting the split peas simmer slowly so that all the ingredients meld together beautifully over time.

One of my favorite tips is to add a splash of vinegar right before serving; it brightens the flavors and adds a delightful tang. I often tweak the herbs based on what I have on hand, making this recipe incredibly versatile. It's become my go-to for meal prep, and I can't get enough!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutrient-dense and comforting for cold days
Easy prep with minimal cleanup, thanks to the crockpot
Great for batch cooking and freezing

      

Why Split Peas Are Special

Split peas are not only a key ingredient in this soup, but they also provide a wealth of nutrition. Being high in protein and fiber, they make the soup filling and satisfying. The unique starchy nature of split peas results in a creamy texture when cooked, which enriches the soup without the need for additional cream. This means you can enjoy a hearty dish that supports your health goals while still feeling indulgent.

Additionally, split peas break down slowly during cooking, creating a harmonious blend of flavors as they absorb the broth and herbs. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory notes of garlic, onions, and herbs like thyme and rosemary. I recommend using dried split peas for this recipe, as opposed to canned options, to maximize flavor and texture.

Making the Most of Your Crockpot

Utilizing a crockpot not only simplifies the cooking process but also intensifies the flavors of your ingredients. Setting your crockpot to low for six hours allows the split peas to soften gradually, while the vegetables infuse their essence into the broth. This slow cooking method helps to develop a rich, deeply satisfying flavor profile that you simply can’t achieve with quicker cooking methods.

If you're planning to make this soup in advance, you can prepare your ingredients the night before. Chop your vegetables and rinse the split peas, then store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, just combine everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic throughout the day—arriving home to a warm, inviting meal is one of the best feelings!

Ingredients

For the Soup

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

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize the flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by rinsing the split peas under cold water until the water runs clear. Then, chop the vegetables as listed.

Combine in the Crockpot

Add the split peas, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.

Cook the Soup

Set the crockpot to low and cook for about 6 hours, or until the peas are soft and the soup is thickened to your liking.

Blend if Desired

For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup before serving.

Serve and Enjoy

Don’t forget the vinegar splash for enhancing the flavors just before serving!

This recipe is flexible, so adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Pro Tips

For additional depth of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf during cooking. Remember to remove it before serving!

Variations to Try

While this healthy split pea soup is delightful as is, feel free to experiment with additional vegetables. Adding diced potatoes or sweet potatoes can provide extra creaminess and sweetness. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking. These adjustments can give the soup a unique twist while still maintaining its comforting essence.

For a heartier version, consider adding cooked ham or smoked sausage towards the end of cooking. These ingredients will impart a savory depth to the soup that complements the split peas beautifully. Just be mindful of salt levels, as both ham and sausage can be quite salty.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This soup stores exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prep. Once cooled, transfer it into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to five days or freeze for up to three months. When freezing, consider portioning it out for easy reheating. My tip is to leave some extra room in the containers for expansion as the soup freezes.

When you're ready to reheat, if frozen, allow the soup to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then, you can reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If you find the soup has thickened too much after storage, simply add a bit of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried split peas instead of green?

Yes, both green and yellow split peas work well in this recipe.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Is this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth and no animal products.

→ Can I add meat to this recipe?

Definitely! Ham or diced chicken can be great additions for added flavor.