Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of sunshine, this Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder Recipe is just the thing! It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with fresh veggies that scream summer. This dish has become a favorite in my kitchen because it brings warmth to busy weeknights and is perfect for family gatherings. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for any occasion.

What I love most about this chowder is that it’s not only delicious but also nourishing. Each spoonful is filled with sweet corn and tender zucchini, making it a delightful way to celebrate summer produce. Whether you’re having a cozy dinner at home or entertaining friends, this chowder will surely impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This chowder comes together in about 50 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the bright flavors and creamy texture—it’s comfort food at its best!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this soup in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables, this chowder is not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or a side, this chowder fits into any meal plan beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

Fresh Produce

• 4 ears corn, cut off from the cob
• 1/2 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 ribs celery, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch cubes
• 1 large zucchini, cut into quarters lengthwise, then sliced
• 1 large yellow squash, cut into quarters lengthwise, then sliced

Pantry Staples

• 5 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 1/4 tsp kosher sea salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried parsley
• 1/4 tsp thyme
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper

Dairy

• 2 cups half-and-half (or whole milk)

Variations

One of the best things about this chowder is how flexible it is! You can easily adjust the recipe based on what you have on hand or your personal tastes. Here are some fun variations:

• Add Some Protein: Toss in cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Change Up the Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added flavor.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, add more cayenne pepper or even some diced jalapeños.
• Make It Vegan: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and swap half-and-half for coconut milk.

How to Make Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Bacon (Optional)

Start by heating a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat. If you’re adding bacon for extra flavor, cook it until crisp—about 5 minutes. This step gives your chowder a rich base that enhances all the other ingredients.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Next, add the diced onion and celery to the pot. Sauté them for about 3 minutes until they soften. Then toss in the corn and let it cook for an additional 4 minutes before adding minced garlic. Cooking these veggies really helps bring out their natural sweetness!

Step 3: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and crank up the heat to medium-high until it simmers. Once bubbling, add your cubed potatoes along with salt, pepper, paprika, dried parsley, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Lower the heat back to medium and let everything cook together for about 10 minutes before introducing zucchini and yellow squash.

Step 4: Cook Until Tender

After adding zucchini and yellow squash, let your chowder simmer until both the potatoes are fork-tender and the squash is cooked through—this should take another 10-12 minutes. The goal here is tender veggies swimming in that flavorful broth!

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

To give your chowder that silky texture we all love, transfer about 2 cups of it to a food processor or blender. Puree until smooth (about 1-2 minutes) before returning it back to the pot—this step adds creaminess without needing too much dairy.

Step 6: Add Half-and-Half

Finally, stir in your half-and-half (or whole milk) until combined. Remove from heat and let your chowder sit for about 10 minutes before serving—it lets those flavors meld together beautifully!

Now gather around the table with loved ones to enjoy this delightful Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder!

Pro Tips for Making Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder Recipe

Making this chowder is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish even further!

• Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn on the cob gives a sweet flavor that frozen alternatives just can’t match. When in season, grab some ears from your local farmer’s market for the best taste.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the half-and-half with vegetable broth. This keeps the chowder creamy while reducing calories.
• Blend to Your Liking: Don’t feel pressured to blend all of the chowder. Blending only a portion can give you that creamy texture while keeping some chunky pieces for added texture and bite.
• Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can add an aromatic freshness that brightens up the chowder. Add them just before serving for maximum impact!
• Make Ahead: This chowder actually tastes better the next day! Make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving.

How to Serve Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder Recipe

Serving this chowder is all about enhancing its natural flavors and creating a cozy dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle some fresh green onions on top for a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
• Crumbled Tortilla Chips: A handful of crispy tortilla chips adds crunch and a fun texture contrast to each spoonful.
• Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese on top can create creaminess as it melts into the warm soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of chowder—comfort food at its best!
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with your favorite greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the chowder nicely.
• Vegetable Skewers: Grilled or roasted vegetable skewers provide a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the fresh ingredients in your chowder.
• Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful sweetness that balances the savory nature of the chowder.

Enjoy this scrumptious Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder with your favorite sides and garnishes for an unforgettable meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, hearty dish throughout the week. Making it ahead of time not only enhances the flavors but also saves you valuable time on busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Pour cooled chowder into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Let the chowder cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of broth or water if the chowder has thickened during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I make the Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute the half and half with a plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk, and omit any bacon or meat products. This will still yield a creamy and delicious chowder!

How long does the Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this chowder will last about 3-4 days in the fridge. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving!

Can I add other vegetables to my Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with other seasonal veggies such as bell peppers, carrots, or green beans. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is tender.

Is this Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This chowder is fantastic for meal prep as it stores well in both the fridge and freezer, making it easy to enjoy throughout your busy week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder Recipe! It’s not just about nourishing your body; it’s about creating warm memories around the table with loved ones. The vibrant flavors of summer corn and zucchini truly shine through, making each spoonful a delightful experience. Enjoy every bit of this comforting chowder, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations! Happy cooking!