Healthy Pea Soup Recipe

As far as I’m concerned, it is always soup season. However, in the spring, I always look forward to making split pea soup. Typically, I make pea soup after Easter with our leftover ham. But, since I no longer host Easter, I switched the ham for pancetta in this healthy pea soup recipe which allows me to make a smaller batch.

I was a young teenager when I first fell for the savory taste of split pea soup. There used to be a restaurant called The Magic Pan, which were located around shopping malls. They were a creperie offering a variety of crepes for both lunch and dessert. To accompany your meal, they offered a fresh spinach salad or a bowl of split pea soup. They served their split pea soup with a side of sherry poured over your soup and a dollop of sour cream. It was delicious, and I recreate their version each time I make the soup at home. I really do miss this restaurant. I have many fond memories there. My sister Carol hosted my bridal shower there.

Below is my latest recipe for a quick and simple split pea soup. It makes enough for four, but you can also freeze it if you have extra. Whenever it gets too thick, I just add more water. Another perk is that you can throw it all together and leave it to simmer on very low heat. Which is great if you have to run errands, you can return to a homemade soup! You can also make this in a slow cooker until peas are soft which may take around 5 hours.

Spring Pea Soup Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil 
• 2 carrots chopped
• 2 ribs celery chopped
• 1 small onion chopped
• 8oz package chopped pancetta 
• ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley 
• 2 whole bay leaves
• 1 16 ounce package dried green split peas, rinse in cold water and drain before using 
• 1 quart water 
• 1 quart chicken broth 
• salt & pepper

Directions  

Sauté vegetables and pancetta in oil until onions are transparent. Next, add split peas, water and broth. Cook on a low heat for 2-3 hours. Add more water if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving. 

Suggested toppings-sour cream, sherry, or seasoned croutons.