Pea Soup Recipes Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Ideas

Pea soup is a timeless classic, beloved for its comforting warmth, vibrant color, and hearty texture. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome lunch or a satisfying dinner, vegetarian pea soups offer a delicious option that’s both nourishing and easy to prepare.

The beauty of pea soup lies in its simplicity — a handful of fresh or dried peas combined with aromatic vegetables and herbs can create a bowl full of flavor that’s perfect for any season. Plus, it’s naturally high in protein and fiber, making it a fantastic meat-free meal.

In this post, we’ll explore several delightful vegetarian pea soup recipes that cater to a variety of tastes and occasions. From creamy and smooth blends to chunky, rustic versions packed with garden vegetables, there’s something here for everyone.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your rotation, these recipes will inspire you to enjoy peas in a whole new way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegetarian pea soup is not only comforting and delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s easy to make in large batches, perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.

The natural sweetness of peas combined with savory herbs and spices creates a satisfying flavor profile that appeals to all ages.

Additionally, pea soup is packed with nutrients like plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins such as vitamin C and B vitamins. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be adapted to be vegan or dairy-free with ease.

With minimal ingredients and simple cooking techniques, this soup is a perfect weeknight meal or a cozy weekend treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried split green peas (rinsed and sorted)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced (optional for creaminess)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender or immersion blender (optional for creamy texture)
• Strainer or colander (for rinsing peas)

Instructions

1. Prepare the peas: Rinse the dried split peas under cold water and remove any debris or stones.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
3. Add garlic and spices: Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, and smoked paprika (if using). Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add peas and broth: Pour in the rinsed peas and vegetable broth. Add the bay leaf and diced potato if you want a creamier soup.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally until peas are tender and beginning to break down.
6. Blend the soup (optional): For a smooth texture, remove the bay leaf and use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, transfer portions to a blender and blend in batches.
7. Season: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
8. Serve and garnish: Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

“For a smoky vegan pea soup, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke. You can also swap out vegetable broth for mushroom broth for an earthy flavor.”

• Use fresh peas: If you have fresh green peas, you can substitute them, but you may need to adjust cooking times as they cook faster than dried peas.
• Add greens: Stir in chopped kale, spinach, or Swiss chard during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream at the end for a rich, velvety texture.
• Slow cooker option: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Blend if desired before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegetarian pea soup pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with crusty whole-grain bread or warm pita to soak up the flavors.

A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the creamy soup.

For a heartier meal, add a side of roasted vegetables or a light sandwich filled with grilled veggies and hummus. You can also top the soup with crunchy croutons or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for added texture.

Looking for more delicious vegetarian meals? Check out our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals and Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners for inspiration!

Additional Vegetarian Pea Soup Recipes to Try

Classic Creamy Split Pea Soup

This version blends cooked peas with sautéed onions and carrots, then uses an immersion blender for a smooth, velvety finish. Add a bay leaf and thyme for a classic flavor.

For a vegan twist, use coconut milk to stir in creaminess at the end.

Chunky Vegetable and Pea Soup

Keep the peas whole and add chunky potatoes, carrots, celery, and tomatoes for a rustic, filling meal. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days and can be made in a slow cooker for convenience.

Curried Pea Soup

Spice things up by adding curry powder, cumin, and turmeric to the base of your pea soup. Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a vibrant, fragrant dish.

Serve with naan or steamed rice for an exotic touch.

Pea and Mint Soup

Fresh or frozen peas combined with fresh mint and a splash of lemon juice create a refreshing and light soup. This is a perfect spring or summer dish served chilled or warm, ideal for a quick lunch or appetizer.

Split Pea and Lentil Soup

Combine green split peas with red lentils for an extra protein boost. Add garlic, ginger, and smoked paprika for a flavorful, comforting bowl that’s great for meal prepping or freezing.

For more creative vegetarian meals, be sure to explore our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious and get inspired by our collection of Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.

Conclusion

Vegetarian pea soup recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious, filling, and flavorful meal without any meat. These soups showcase the natural sweetness and creaminess of peas while offering countless opportunities to customize with your favorite herbs, spices, and vegetables.

Whether you prefer a silky smooth soup or a chunky vegetable-packed stew, pea soup is a versatile dish that fits any lifestyle and season.

With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a comforting bowl of pea soup that delights your taste buds and warms your soul. Remember, cooking is all about creativity, so don’t hesitate to experiment with spices and add-ins to make the soup your own.

For more wholesome vegetarian recipes and ideas, explore the many options available on our site to keep your meals exciting and delicious!

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