Kielbasa Split Pea Soup

2 celery ribs, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
1 package (16 ounces) dried green split peas
9 cups water, divided
1 pound smoked kielbasa, halved and sliced
4 medium carrots, halved and thinly sliced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
1 teaspoon dried basil
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

In a soup kettle or Dutch oven coated with cooking spray, cook celery and onion until tender. Stir in split peas and 6 cups water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 25 minutes.

Stir in the kielbasa, carrots, potatoes, parsley, basil, salt, pepper and remaining water. Return to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until peas and vegetables are tender. Makes 12 servings.