Are you craving a hearty, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying soup that will warm your soul and nourish your body? Look no further than this incredible Healthy Split Pea Soup! Packed with protein-rich split peas, vibrant vegetables, and a symphony of herbs, this recipe is not just a meal—it's a culinary experience that will revolutionize your approach to healthy eating. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or someone looking for a delicious way to incorporate more plant-based nutrition into your diet, this soup is your perfect solution.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 75 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup split peas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the split peas thoroughly under cold running water, removing any small stones or debris. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for 4-5 minutes until they become soft and the onions turn translucent.
- Add minced garlic to the vegetables and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the garlic's aromatic flavors.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the pot and add the rinsed split peas. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Sprinkle dried thyme into the soup, and season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Stir well to distribute the seasonings.
- Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for 50-60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the consistency of the split peas. They should be tender and beginning to break down, creating a naturally creamy texture. If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth; if too thin, continue simmering uncovered.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Let the soup rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or a drizzle of olive oil. Pairs well with crusty whole grain bread.
Tips
- Always rinse your split peas thoroughly to remove any debris and ensure a clean, pure flavor.
- Don't rush the sautéing of vegetables—taking 4-5 minutes allows them to develop a deeper, more complex taste.
- Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control the salt content and customize the seasoning to your preference.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- For an extra creamy texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some whole peas for texture.
- This soup freezes beautifully! Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months for a quick and healthy meal prep option.
- Experiment with garnishes like crispy croutons, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or fresh herbs to elevate the presentation and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 230kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
