Corn and Zucchini Chowder
A warm and soothing Corn and Zucchini Chowder that blends the sweetness of fresh corn with tender zucchini in a rich, creamy broth. Easy to prepare and comforting, this chowder is perfect for any season, offering a nutritious and flavorful meal that can be customized for various dietary preferences.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
Liquids and Dairy
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
Seasonings and Herbs
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Dice the zucchini into bite-sized pieces and cut the potatoes into small cubes. If using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob; if frozen, measure ready to use.
- Sauté the Base: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This builds a flavorful base for the chowder.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the diced potatoes, zucchini, and corn kernels to the pot. Stir and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and mingle with the butter and aromatics.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, just enough to cover the vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and flavors meld.
- Blend and Add Cream: Use an immersion blender to partially blend the chowder, aiming for a creamy yet chunky texture. Stir in the heavy cream or milk and warm gently without boiling to combine the creamy broth with the vegetables.
- Season and Garnish: Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to taste. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Notes
- Use fresh corn and zucchini whenever possible for best flavor and texture.
- Do not overblend; keep some chunks for a hearty texture.
- Simmer gently after adding cream to avoid curdling.
- Adjust thickness by adding broth if too thick or reducing if too thin.
- Fresh thyme or parsley enhances the flavor significantly.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally and avoiding boiling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: corn chowder, zucchini chowder, creamy soup, vegetarian chowder, gluten free soup, comforting recipes