By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on June 1, 2023 | Last Updated on June 22, 2023
This Sicilian split pea soup is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a comforting bowl of vegan goodness. Filled with healthy ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Serve it as an appetizer or main dish for any night of the week! The best part about this soup is that it’s made with pantry staples, so you can whip it up in no time.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make this easy Sicilian split pea soup. We’ll also give you some tips on how to store it and answer any questions you may have. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get started!
What is Sicilian Split Pea Soup?
Sicilian split pea soup is a hearty, vegan soup made with split peas and vegetables. It’s a traditional Italian dish that has been around for centuries and is known for its rich flavor and comforting texture.
The main ingredients are chicken stock, shallot, carrots, split peas, olive oil, herbs, celery stalks, onion, and pasta. You can also add some potatoes or other vegetables for extra texture.
What does it taste like?
This Sicilian split pea soup has a rich, earthy flavor with subtle hints of sweetness from the shallots and herbs. The split peas give it a creamy texture while the vegetables provide a nice crunch.
The combination of flavors makes this soup truly unique and delicious. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
How did I first get introduced to the Sicilian Split Pea Soup?
I was first introduced to this delicious soup when I was traveling through Italy. I had the chance to try a traditional Sicilian split pea soup in a restaurant and it was absolutely amazing!
The combination of flavors and textures was unlike anything I had ever experienced before, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. Since then, I have made this soup countless times and it’s always been a hit with my family!
How to make Sicilian Split Pea Soup?
Making this soup is surprisingly simple and can be done in just a few easy steps. Below are the ingredients & step-by-step instructions that you’ll need to follow:
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Ingredients
- Chicken Stock: This is the base for your split pea soup. For a vegan option, use vegetable stock instead.
- Shallot: Shallots are a milder version of onion and give this recipe a nice hint of sweetness.
- Carrots: Carrots add texture and flavor to the split pea soup and make it more substantial.
- Split Peas: Split peas are a great source of fiber and protein. Make sure to soak them overnight for the best results.
- Olive Oil: This will be used to sauté the onions, garlic, and herbs.
- Basil, Rosemary, Thyme: These herbs add a delicious aroma and flavor to the soup.
- Celery Stalks: Celery adds a bit of crunch and flavor to the soup.
- Onion: Onion is essential in all soups and gives this split pea soup a nice aroma.
- Pasta: This is what makes it more like a stew. your favorite pasta, such as ditalini Moretti, to give it a touch of Italian flavor.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and add the shallot, carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté for 5 minutes or until vegetables are softened.
Step 2
Add the chicken stock to the pot along with the split peas, basil, rosemary, thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and simmer for 1 hour or until the split peas are tender.
Step 3
Stir in the pasta of your choice and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
Step 4
Serve the Sicilian split pea soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.
Tips
-Soak the split peas overnight before cooking to get the best results.
-If you don’t have any fresh herbs on hand, you can use dried herbs instead.
-For a vegan version of this dish, substitute vegetable stock for chicken stock.
-You can also add some cooked diced potatoes or roasted vegetables to the soup for extra flavor and texture.
-This Sicilian split pea soup is also great served cold or at room temperature. Just add a few ice cubes to the soup before serving.
Sicilian Split Pea Soup Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large pot with a lid
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 knife
- 1 Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 8 cups chicken stock reduced-sodium
- 6 carrots sliced
- 2 minced shallot
- 18 oz split peas (soaked overnight)
- 2 tsp garlic powder and/or dried basil leaves
- 5 stalks of celery diced
- 1 1/2 tsp fresh thyme
- 1 1/2 tsp Rosemary
- 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- salt/pepper to taste
- 2 medium onion, diced
- 1 lb ditalini/tubetti pasta
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and add the shallot, carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté for 5 minutes or until vegetables are softened.
- Add the chicken stock to the pot along with the split peas, basil, rosemary, thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and simmer for 1 hour or until the split peas are tender.
- Stir in the pasta of your choice and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
- Serve the Sicilian split pea soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.
Notes
Nutrition Information
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 26 g
Protein: 9 g
Fiber: 6 g
Sodium: 420 mg
What to serve with Sicilian Split Pea Soup?
Sicilian split pea soup is a rich and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with any number of sides. Some popular options include crusty Italian bread, grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a simple salad. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt also adds an extra layer of deliciousness to the soup.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, you can add some hot sauce or chopped jalapenos to the soup for a kick of flavor. You can also some grated Parmesan cheese on top for added.
How to store leftover Sicilian Split Pea Soup?
Leftover Sicilian split pea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then heat on the stovetop or microwave until hot.
If you are planning on freezing it, make sure to leave a bit of room at the top of the container for expansion.
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can eat this Sicilian split pea soup. As long as the ingredients are fresh and of good quality, it is perfectly safe for pregnant women to enjoy. Additionally, split peas are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber which can be beneficial during pregnancy.
Be sure to follow all safety guidelines when preparing the soup and check with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
FAQs
Can this be served cold?
Yes, Sicilian split pea soup can also be served cold. Just add a few ice cubes to the soup before serving for a refreshing summer dish. You can also serve it at room temperature if desired. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit!
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes, this Sicilian split pea soup can easily be made vegan by substituting vegetable stock for chicken stock.
Additionally, you can add some cooked diced potatoes or roasted vegetables for extra flavor and texture. It’s also a great way to get in some extra plant-based protein and fiber.
Can this dish be made without pasta?
Yes, this Sicilian split pea soup can certainly be made without pasta. Just omit it from the recipe and simmer the soup for an extra 10 minutes or so until desired consistency is reached.
The soup will still be delicious without the pasta! You can also add some cooked diced potatoes or roasted vegetables for extra flavor and texture.
Wrapping Up
Sicilian split pea soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s sure to please. It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein, making it a great choice for vegan and vegetarian diets.
Serve it up as an appetizer or main course, alongside some crusty Italian bread or grilled vegetables – however you enjoy it, this Sicilian split pea soup is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Thank you for your time and we hope you enjoy our Sicilian split pea soup! Please share this recipe with your family & friends.
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more
