Split pea soup is a classic comfort food that has been around for centuries. Split pea soup is one of those classic dishes that everyone loves.
It’s hearty, flavorful, nutritious and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you are hosting a party for your friends or family, this soup is perfect for everyone. But what to serve with split pea soup to make it extra special?
If you’re looking for the perfect pairings for your split pea soup, look no further! Here are some creative side dish ideas that will take your split pea soup to the next level!
What is split pea soup? What does split pea soup taste like?
Split pea soup is a classic comfort food enjoyed around the world. It’s made with split peas, vegetables, and flavorful herbs and spices simmered together in a broth or stock.
The split peas provide a creamy texture to the soup, while the vegetables and herbs add layers of flavor. Split pea soup can be served hot or cold, and it can vary from mild to hearty depending on how much seasoning is added.
Split pea soup has a rich flavor that combines both sweet and savory elements. The sweetness comes from the split peas, which balance out the saltiness of the broth or stock used to make this dish.
Herbs like thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and celery give it an earthy flavor.
The vegetables like carrots and onions add a subtle sweetness to the soup. Finally, garlic, black pepper, and other spices add depth and complexity to flavors.
Overall, split pea soup has an enjoyable taste that is both comforting and flavorful at the same time. It’s perfect for enjoying on its own or with a side of crusty bread or your favorite crackers. No matter how you serve it up, split pea soup is sure to be a hit!
27 Sides to serve with split pea soup
1. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
What could be more comforting than a grilled cheese sandwich? Grilled cheese sandwiches make a delicious accompaniment to split pea soup.
The combination of warm and gooey melted cheese on a crunchy crust provides an interesting textural contrast that complements the creamy texture of the soup perfectly.
You can even get creative by adding bacon or tomato slices for an extra burst of flavor.
Discover More: Perfect Side Dishes to Serve with Kalua Pork Sandwiches
2. Crusty Bread
If you want something a bit simpler, why not serve crusty bread with your split pea soup? This is a great way to soak up all those delicious flavors in the soup and add some heft to your meal.
Try topping it with butter or olive oil for an extra layer of flavor. A sprinkle of herbs such as rosemary or thyme also goes nicely with crusty bread and split pea soup.
3. Salad
A simple salad is always a welcome addition to any main course dish.
For this particular pairing, try using fresh greens such as spinach or arugula, then top them off with a light vinaigrette dressing and some freshly grated parmesan cheese.
This will add color and texture while providing an extra dose of nutrients and vitamins to round out your meal.
4. Roasted Root Vegetables
One of the best dishes to serve with split pea soup is roasted root vegetables. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds an amazing depth of flavor to any meal.
Try roasting sweet potatoes, carrots, beetroot, and parsnips in olive oil and herbs for a delicious side dish.
You can also add some red onions or garlic if you want some extra flavor. Serve the roasted root vegetables on top of the split pea soup for an extra hit of flavor and texture.
5. Warm Salad with Radicchio and Feta
For a more vibrant option, try making a warm salad with radicchio and feta cheese. This colorful salad is full of flavor from the bitter radicchio, salty feta cheese, and sweet balsamic glaze. (Recipe)
Simply sauté some radicchio in olive oil until it starts to wilt, then add crumbled feta cheese.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze or honey for a flavorful kick, and serve on top of your split pea soup.
The added crunchy texture makes this side dish perfect for adding variety to your meal!
6. Cheddar Biscuits
For something more comforting, try making cheddar biscuits as a side dish! These cheesy biscuits are easy to make—all you need is flour, baking powder, butter, milk, cheddar cheese, and salt.
Mix all the ingredients together until they form a dough, then shape them into small balls before baking them in the oven until golden brown.
Serve these cheddar biscuits hot alongside your split pea soup for an extra dose of comfort food!
7. Buttermilk Biscuits
Buttermilk biscuits make a wonderfully flaky accompaniment to split pea soup. Not only do they add texture and flavor, but they also provide something for sopping up all the delicious broth.
8. Cornbread
Cornbread is a natural pairing with split pea soup, especially on cold days when you need some extra warmth.
The sweet corn notes and slightly crunchy texture balance out the earthy richness of the soup without being too heavy.
9. Crusty French Bread
Nothing beats crusty French bread when it comes to eating split pea soup.
Whether you’re using it as a dipping vessel or just using it to soak up the extra broth, this classic side dish provides substance without weighing down your meal too much.
Explore More: Delicious Recipes to Serve with French Bread
10. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are one of the best vegetables to eat with split pea soup because their slightly bitter flavor helps cut through its creamy texture and adds some welcome complexity to the dish.
11. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are another great way to round out your plate with some protein-rich carbohydrates that will complement the flavors of your split pea soup nicely.
Plus, garlic mashed potatoes can be made in advance and reheated for convenience!
12. Naan Bread
Naan bread is another excellent choice for adding some additional flavor and texture to your split pea soup dish since it’s soft yet chewy enough to stand up against all that creamy goodness without becoming soggy or unappetizingly mushy.
13. Fried Onions
Fried onions bring an intense flavor punch that helps liven up your bowl of split pea soup perfectly; plus, they’re surprisingly easy and quick to fry up right before serving!
14. Soft Pretzels
Soft pretzels are an ideal snack for enjoying with split pea soup since their mild taste won’t overpower the flavors in your bowl while still providing some additional heftiness from their chewy texture as well as added saltiness from their sprinkle of coarse salt on top before baking them in the oven!
15. Rye Crackers
Rye crackers have a slightly nutty flavor that pairs nicely with split pea soup while giving your meal an added crunch factor as well!
16. Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Bacon-wrapped dates have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their amazing combination of sweet and savory flavors.
These little morsels make a great side dish when paired with any type of soup, like split peas!
17. Focaccia Bread
Focaccia bread is one of those incredibly versatile bread that can be dressed up or down depending on what you serve alongside it.
Its slightly salty taste pairs particularly well with hearty soups like split peas, making it an ideal accompaniment for this traditional favorite!
18. Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf is not only simple to make but also adds variety to any meal; its subtle nutty flavor complements many dishes, including Split Peas Soup!
19. Croutons
Crunchy croutons are always a welcome addition atop bowlfuls of steaming hot soups like Split Peas Soup.
Moreover, lightly seasoning them with herbs such as oregano, thyme, or marjoram can really “spice things up” if desired!
20. Rye Toast Points
Toasted rye toast points are surefire ways of adding plenty of crunches and extra depth (in terms of both flavor & texture) to any bowlfuls of Split Peas Soup.
Furthermore, they pair nicely with strong-flavored cheeses such as blue cheese or feta too!
21. Pita Chips
Pita chips are an excellent way to add more substance and crunch to your split pea soup.
They’re also a great vehicle for scooping up any pieces of vegetables that you want to get out of the broth without having them sink right back down.
22. Buttered Noodles
Buttered noodles are an easy and delicious side dish that pairs well with split pea soup.
Their buttery flavor helps contrast the earthiness of the peas while still providing plenty of filling bulk which will satisfy even the hungriest diners!
23. Sourdough Bread
Sourdough bread is always a crowd-pleaser, as its slightly tangy taste complements almost any dish. Slice up a loaf for dipping into the soup, or just enjoy it as is – whatever you choose, your guests will thank you!
24. Crusty Rolls
For a slightly more indulgent option, try serving crusty rolls alongside your split pea soup.
Their chewy texture and golden color will warm up the plate, while their rich flavor adds an extra layer of complexity that no other side dish can provide.
25. Spicy Pickles
If you’re looking for something with a bit more kick, spicy pickles are a great way to add some heat to your meal.
The sharpness of these pickles helps cut through the broth and vegetables in the soup, as well as providing some much-needed spice and crunch!
26. Toasted Croutons
Another easy way to give your soup the perfect finishing touch is to toss in some toasted croutons.
With their crunchy texture and herby flavor, they help bring out the flavor of the split pea soup even more; plus, they look gorgeous when sprinkled over the top!
27. Grated Cheese
Last but not least, a sprinkle of grated cheese is always a welcome addition. Opt for something mild like Parmesan or cheddar to help enhance the flavors of your dish without overpowering it.
Its creamy taste will also add richness and depth that no other side can provide!
Discover More: Amazing Side Dishes to Complement Soup at Your Next Dinner Party
Toppings for Split Pea Soup
1. Bacon
Add a small amount of bacon to give the soup a smoky flavor and crunchy texture.
2. Carrots
Chopped carrots are great for adding sweetness and texture to the soup.
3. Onions
Diced onions offer excellent flavor and texture, as well as essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, folate, iron, and magnesium.
4. Celery
Celery adds freshness and crunch to the soup, along with essential nutrients like vitamin A, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, zinc, and manganese.
5. Garlic
Minced garlic adds a sharp flavor to the soup that pairs perfectly with other ingredients like bacon or potatoes.
6. Potatoes
Diced potatoes add texture and substance to the soup while also providing essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, B6, iron, magnesium, and potassium.
7. Thyme
Fresh or dried thyme not only adds a fragrant flavor but also provides antioxidants that protect cells from damage.
8. Parsley
Parsley is an excellent source of vitamins A, K and C, along with copper and manganese. It can be used fresh in soups for a bright flavor and added nutrition.
9. Olive oil
Adding olive oil when you simmer your soup adds healthy fats as well as flavor to your dish without adding calories or cholesterol.
10. Pepper
Freshly ground black pepper adds a bit of heat and flavor to the soup without adding any calories or fat.
These are just 10 great toppings for split pea soup, but you can also add other ingredients like bay leaves, white wine, fresh herbs, celery root, mushrooms or even apples. The possibilities are truly endless! Enjoy!
10 best garnish for split pea soup
1. Bacon crumbles
Bacon adds a smoky flavor to the soup and makes it more savory.
2. Fresh parsley
Freshly chopped parsley adds a bright, herby flavor to the soup and helps bring out its natural flavors.
3. Shredded cheese
Cheese is always a great addition to any soup, especially split peas! It adds a creamy texture and cheesy flavor that is sure to delight your taste buds.
4. Croutons
Croutons add a crunchy texture to the soup and make it even more enjoyable for those who like their soups with a bit of crunch.
5. Chopped onions
Chopped onions add an extra savory depth to the soup and make it even more delicious.
6. Sliced radishes
Radishes add a peppery flavor to the soup that helps balance out its natural sweetness.
7. Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Adding some sour cream or Greek yogurt will give your soup a creamy, tangy finish that’s sure to please.
8. Roasted garlic
Roasted garlic adds a subtle, sweet flavor to the soup that is sure to tantalize taste buds!
9. Chopped chives
Chives are great for adding an onion-like flavor without any of the harshness associated with raw onions. A sprinkle of chopped chives is sure to liven up your split pea soup.
10. Toasted nuts
Adding some toasted nuts such as almonds or walnuts is a great way to add texture and flavor to the soup, helping it stand out from other soups!
What are the best flavors to go with split pea soup?
Split pea soup can be enhanced by a variety of flavors. To bring out the earthy, savory notes in the soup, try adding a touch of garlic, onion and herbs such as thyme or rosemary.
A splash of balsamic vinegar also adds a hint of sweetness that pairs nicely with the split peas.
You can also add smokiness to your bowl by incorporating smoky bacon or ham hocks into the mix.
And for an unexpected yet delicious flavor combination, try tossing in some sweet potatoes and apples for added texture and flavor complexity.
For extra warmth and spice, consider adding some freshly ground black pepper, cayenne pepper or chili powder.
You can also add a squeeze of lemon for brightness and to balance out the richness of the soup. Spices like turmeric, curry powder and cumin will provide an earthy flavor profile that pairs nicely with split peas.
Finally, don’t forget to top your bowl off with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy finish and added tanginess.
The combination of flavors that you choose to incorporate into your split pea soup is entirely up to you! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients until you find your perfect flavor combination. Bon appétit!
How do you jazz up split pea soup?
To jazz up split pea soup, you can add any combination of herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.
Popular additions include garlic, onion, oregano, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, nutmeg, lemon juice or zest and hot pepper flakes.
You can also try adding some diced vegetables, such as carrots or celery, for added texture and nutrition.
For a creamier soup base, consider blending in some yogurt or sour cream before serving.
Finally, topping off your split pea soup with bacon bits or crumbled cheese adds a delicious finishing touch. Enjoy!
How do you display split pea soup on a platter?
To display split pea soup on a platter, first spread the soup in large spoonfuls over the platter.
Then, use small spoons or tongs to arrange pieces of vegetables, such as diced onions, carrots, and celery, to add color contrast.
Finally, you can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of flavor and an added aesthetic touch. Enjoy!
Wrap Up on What to Serve with split pea soup
Split pea soup is an incredibly versatile dish that pairs well with many different side dishes.
Whether you’re looking for something simple like crusty bread or something more creative like grilled cheese sandwiches, there’s bound to be something that will fit the bill when it comes to serving up split pea soup alongside some tasty side dishes!
So next time you make this classic dish, don’t forget about these delicious pairings!
FAQs
How much-split pea soup per person?
The amount of split pea soup to serve per person depends on the size of your party and how hungry everyone is.
Generally, a good portion for an average-sized adult is about one cup of soup, but if you have a large group or if some people are especially hungry, consider making 1 1/2 to 2 cups per person.
If you’re serving the soup as part of a larger meal, then plan on about 3/4 cup per person.
To make sure everyone has enough, it’s always best to make a bit more than you think you’ll need. Enjoy!
Does cornbread go with split pea soup?
The answer to this question depends on personal preference. Some people enjoy the contrast of sweetness from the cornbread with the creamy and savory flavors of split pea soup.
Others may find that the two are too contrasting in flavor and prefer a different accompaniment, such as crackers or crusty bread.
Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if cornbread goes with split pea soup! Try both options and see which one you like better!
What sandwich goes with split pea soup?
A classic grilled cheese sandwich is a great accompaniment to split pea soup. Grilled cheese sandwiches are easy to make and provide a hearty, cheesy contrast to the savory flavors of split pea soup.
Other options include ham and Swiss, turkey and Cheddar, or even a Monte Cristo sandwich with layers of ham, turkey and Swiss cheese.
If you’re looking for something on the lighter side, try a BLT sandwich with added avocado slices or an open-faced tuna melt with tomato slices. to split pea soup.
Grilled cheese sandwiches are easy to make and provide a hearty, cheesy contrast to the savory flavors of split pea soup.
Other options include ham and Swiss, turkey and Cheddar, or even a Monte Cristo sandwich with layers of ham, turkey and Swiss cheese.
If you’re looking for something on the lighter side, try a BLT sandwich with added avocado slices or an open-faced tuna melt with tomato slices.
What meat goes with split pea soup?
Split pea soup is a hearty, comforting dish that pairs well with a variety of proteins. For a classic combination, try adding diced ham or bacon to the split pea soup.
Another great option is to use leftover cooked chicken or turkey for added flavor and protein. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, crumbled tofu adds an interesting texture and additional protein.
And if you want something unique, try stirring in diced smoked sausage or chorizo for an extra kick of flavor! Whatever meat you choose, it’s sure to make your split pea soup even more delicious. Enjoy!
What bread goes with split pea soup?
The best type of bread to pair with split pea soup is a hearty, crusty loaf such as sourdough. A slice of sourdough will add texture and flavor to the soup without overwhelming it.
Alternatively, you can also opt for a lighter type of bread, such as French or Italian, that has been toasted lightly. This will help to bring out the flavors in the soup while still providing a nice crunch.
Additionally, cornbread or garlic toast make excellent accompaniments for split pea soup as well.
What kind of salad goes well with split pea soup?
A light and fresh salad can be a great accompaniment to split pea soup.
Salads that make use of seasonal vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, carrots, and radishes are a great way to bring some color and crunch to the dish.
A simple vinaigrette dressing is often all you need to complete the salad. If you’re looking for something more exciting than plain greens, try adding in grains such as quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrition.
Adding nuts or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower can also add a nice boost of flavor to the salad.
Finally, topping with a sprinkle of cheese can give your dish an extra touch of creaminess that pairs well with split pea soup.
What dessert goes with split pea soup?
A crusty slice of bread or a light, fluffy biscuit can be the perfect accompaniment to split pea soup.
For a more decadent option, you could try adding a dollop of plain yogurt, ice cream or crème fraiche for an added layer of flavor and texture.
If you’re looking for something sweeter to enjoy alongside your split pea soup, consider baking up a batch of spiced applesauce muffins or apple crisp with oatmeal topping.
You could also opt for something slightly savory, like buttery shortbread cookies or mini cheese scones.
These sweet treats are sure to satisfy those with a hearty appetite while still allowing the flavors of the split pea soup to shine through!
