Are you looking for a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory to sweet? Look no further than split peas! These tiny legumes are packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, making them a great addition to any meal. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to work with – simply soak, cook, and season to bring out their natural flavor.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 19 delicious split pea recipes that go far beyond your average soup. From hearty casseroles and stir-fries to crispy fritters and savory curries, there’s something for everyone on this list. So whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some new ideas, keep reading to discover the many faces of split peas!
Split Pea and Ham Casserole
This comforting casserole combines split peas with savory ham, vegetables, and a crispy breadcrumb topping for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas
– 2 cups water
– 6 slices of cooked ham, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen carrots and peas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook split peas according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add diced ham, carrots, and peas to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Combine cooked peas, ham mixture, paprika, salt, and pepper in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with breadcrumbs and cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Split Pea Patties
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these flavorful split pea patties! Made with a blend of aromatic spices, crunchy texture, and a hint of heat, these bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked split peas
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (for binding)
– Breadcrumbs or panko for coating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mash the cooked split peas using a fork until mostly smooth.
3. Add oats, onion, garlic, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
4. Add the egg and mix until combined.
5. Shape into 12-15 patties. Coat with breadcrumbs or panko.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Split Pea and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry recipe that combines the creaminess of split peas with the crunch of various vegetables, perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Rinse the split peas and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Drain and add the soaked split peas to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the peas are heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add soy sauce or chili flakes for added flavor.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Split Pea and Lentil Curry
This comforting curry is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils and nutritious split peas, simmered in a flavorful mixture of spices. Serve over rice or with naan for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup dried split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in a little water until softened.
2. Add lentils, split peas, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils and peas are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Split Pea and Bacon Frittata
A classic breakfast or brunch dish gets a flavorful boost with the addition of sweet split peas and crispy bacon. This frittata is perfect for a crowd-pleasing morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the same skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the split peas to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until they start to soften.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt. Pour the egg mixture over the pea mixture in the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges start to set.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the frittata is cooked through.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Split Pea and Spinach Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy texture of split peas with the nutritious punch of spinach, all tied together with a tangy vinaigrette. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the split peas and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked split peas, baby spinach leaves, and thinly sliced red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the vinaigrette over the pea-spinach mixture and toss to combine.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if using.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (soaking time) + 10 minutes (preparation)
Split Pea and Sweet Potato Hash
This flavorful hash combines tender sweet potatoes, split peas, and aromatic spices for a satisfying side dish or vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. While sweet potatoes are roasting, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
6. Add garlic, cumin, and split peas to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until peas are tender.
7. Combine roasted sweet potatoes with pea mixture and stir to combine.
8. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Split Pea and Mushroom Risotto
A comforting and flavorful dish that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the creamy richness of risotto, perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients from the split peas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup split green peas
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine (if using) and stir until absorbed.
5. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup warmed broth to the rice mixture, stirring until absorbed. Repeat process, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, until rice is cooked and creamy.
6. Stir in butter, split peas, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 30-40 minutes
Split Pea and Cornbread Bake
A hearty, comforting dish that combines the creamy goodness of split peas with the crumbly texture of cornbread. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried split peas
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the split peas and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add melted butter, milk, and soaked split peas to the dry mixture. Stir until just combined.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional chives if desired.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and the peas are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Split Pea and Carrot Fritters
These flavorful fritters are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, packed with nutritious split peas and carrots. They make a great snack or side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mash the split peas using a fork until coarsely chopped.
3. Add grated carrots, chopped onion, minced garlic, flour, egg, and olive oil. Mix well.
4. Season with salt and pepper. If desired, add paprika or chili flakes for extra flavor.
5. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Split Pea and Kale Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the comfort of split peas with the earthiness of kale. The result is a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup dried split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for an extra burst of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the split peas according to package instructions or until tender. Drain excess water.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the pea mixture, followed by the kale mixture. Top with feta cheese, if using.
6. Place the peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Split Pea and Quinoa Pilaf
A nutritious and flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines the creamy texture of split peas with the nutty flavor of quinoa, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split peas
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the quinoa and split peas.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the quinoa and split peas to the saucepan. Stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Split Pea and Tomato Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that combines the natural sweetness of split peas with the tanginess of fresh tomatoes, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, split peas, and water or broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Split Pea and Chickpea Burgers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional burgers, this recipe combines the creamy texture of split peas with the nutty flavor of chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked split peas
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mash the split peas and chickpeas together using a fork or potato masher.
3. Add the oats, breadcrumbs, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well.
4. If using egg, add it to the mixture and mix until combined.
5. Form into 2-3 patties, depending on desired size.
6. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Split Pea and Zucchini Fritters
These flavorful fritters are a perfect blend of green goodness, packed with protein-rich split peas and refreshing zucchini. A great snack or side dish for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine split peas, zucchini, flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and olive oil. Pour into the pea mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Using wet hands, shape the mixture into 6-8 patties.
5. Place the fritters on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Split Pea and Eggplant Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that combines the creaminess of split peas with the tender sweetness of eggplant. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium eggplant, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add eggplant and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add split peas, water or broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, until the peas are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Serve hot over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Split Pea and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted tomatoes with the comforting flavors of split peas and rice, creating a delicious and nutritious side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup split peas (green or yellow)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, split peas, olive oil, onion, garlic, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each tomato with the pea-rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Split Pea and Potato Croquettes
These flavorful bites are perfect as a snack or appetizer. The combination of split peas, potatoes, and spices creates a delightful crunch on the outside and a creamy filling inside.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked split peas
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mash cooked split peas and diced potatoes together.
3. Add panko breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, egg, salt, and pepper; mix well.
4. Using your hands, shape mixture into small cylinders, about 1 inch long.
5. Dip each croquette in olive oil, then coat with additional panko breadcrumbs.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Split Pea and Herb Flatbread
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of split peas with the bright flavors of fresh herbs, all wrapped up in a crispy flatbread. Perfect as a snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split peas
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook split peas according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked peas, olive oil, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and yeast.
5. Add the dry mixture to the pea mixture and stir until just combined.
6. Knead dough for 5 minutes, then shape into a flatbread.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get creative with split peas beyond soups! This article presents 19 delicious recipe ideas that showcase the versatility of this nutritious legume. From savory dishes like Split Pea and Ham Casserole and Spicy Split Pea Patties, to sweet treats like Split Pea and Sweet Potato Hash, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover inspiring recipes for stir-fries, curries, frittatas, salads, and more that will elevate your cooking skills and satisfy your appetite.
