Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the split peas, diced potatoes, broth, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir everything together.
Step 4: Simmer The Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The split peas and potatoes should become tender.
Step 5: Blend (Optional)
For a creamy texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup directly in the pot. Leave some chunks for a hearty bite.
Step 6: Season And Serve
Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
I love how versatile this recipe is. It’s perfect for meal prepping since it stores well in the fridge or freezer. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious!