Summer Corn Chowder Soup

This summer corn chowder soup truly brings out the bright and fresh flavors of the season. Picture this: a warm bowl of deliciousness, filled with sweet corn, fresh veggies, and a hint of creaminess. It’s the perfect dish when you want something light yet satisfying, especially on those sunny afternoons. The combination of vegetables makes it not only nutritious but also so colorful. You can almost feel summer with each spoonful. Trust me, you won’t just be preparing a dish; you’ll be creating a delightful experience to savor alongside family and friends.

Let’s get started making your new favorite summer chowder; it combines fresh ingredients in a way that feels both indulgent and light.

Why This Recipe Works

This summer corn chowder soup combines fresh, seasonal ingredients with a creamy texture that delivers comfort during the warmer months. Using sweet corn straight from the cob enhances its natural sweetness. Plus, adding zucchini contributes depth and substance without overpowering. This method allows for a wonderfully lightened-up chowder, making it feel indulgent yet healthy at the same time.

Why You’ll Love This Summer Corn Chowder Soup

If you’re a fan of vibrant summer flavors, this chowder will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. It’s easy to make and incredibly adaptable. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon or a cozy dinner party, this recipe shines. The combination of crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a perfect harmony. Every spoonful is a delightful experience that bursts with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp. butter
• 2 strips bacon, chopped
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion (about ½ large onion)
• 2 ribs celery, chopped (⅓ cup)
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped (½ cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp. dried thyme
• 2 medium (1 lb.) russet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
• 4 cups water (or vegetable stock)
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 ears sweet fresh corn, husk and silk removed, kernels cut from cob (2 ¾ cups corn)
• 1 medium zucchini, diced into ½-inch cubes (1 ½ cups)
• 1 cup half and half
• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Cayenne pepper, for serving (optional)

Cooking Instructions

Melt Butter and Cook Bacon

In a large, heavy-duty stockpot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Then, add the chopped bacon. Cook the bacon until it renders its fat and begins to brown—this should take about 3-4 minutes. The aroma is utterly tempting!

Sauté Vegetables

Next, toss in the chopped onion, celery, carrot, garlic, and thyme. As you stir occasionally, you’ll notice the vegetables starting to soften—this should take around five minutes. Cook time matters as it builds the flavors beautifully.

Cook Potatoes

Now, incorporate the diced potatoes, water, and bay leaf. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring everything to a simmer. Once you see bubbling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the potatoes are partially cooked. This step is essential for ensuring each ingredient melds perfectly.

Add Zucchini and Corn

It’s time to add the diced zucchini and sweet corn to the pot. Season generously with salt and pepper. Allow everything to simmer for another 8-12 minutes, until all the vegetables are tender. The colors in the pot will become even more vibrant!

Blend Chowder

Once the vegetables are done, pull out the bay leaf. Transfer 2 cups of the chowder to a food processor or blender and puree until you have a nice, smooth mixture. Stir this pureed goodness back into the pot. This step provides that delicious creamy texture without overloading on calories.

Finish with Half and Half

Next up, add the half and half to the chowder. Cook just until everything is heated through. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You’re almost there!

Serve

Now for the best part—ladle the chowder into bowls. Garnish each bowl with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, if you desire a little kick. Now it’s ready to enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

This summer corn chowder pairs wonderfully with a crusty baguette or a light salad. Also, think about serving it as a starter alongside grilled cheese sandwiches. It goes perfectly with fresh corn on the cob, making for a delightful summer meal that captures the season’s essence.

Tips for Success

• For the best flavor, try to use fresh corn. But if it’s not available, frozen corn can work as a substitute.
• Adjust the creaminess to your liking; vary the amount of half and half according to your taste.
• If you want a thicker chowder, blend more of the soup mixture before adding the half and half. A simple change can make a big difference!

Variations

• Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, substitute half of the potatoes with sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
• Incorporate other seasonal veggies like peas or green beans for added color and nutrition.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop while stirring. This helps maintain the creamy texture you love.

FAQs

1. Can I make this chowder dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the half and half with coconut milk or almond milk to make it dairy-free.

2. How can I thicken the chowder if it’s too thin?
You can blend some of the soup and mix it back in or add a slurry of cornstarch and water for thickness.

3. Is this chowder freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the chowder for up to 3 months. Just reheat gently when ready to serve.

4. Can I add protein to this chowder?
Definitely! Adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can enhance the dish beautifully.

5. How long does this chowder take to make?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 40-50 minutes. It’s simple and rewarding!

This summer corn chowder soup is a celebration of the season’s freshest ingredients, capturing summertime essence in each bowl. Whether served at a backyard barbecue or a cozy weeknight dinner, it’s bound to be a hit. The comforting flavors and delightful textures make it a recipe to treasure for summers to come. Embrace the warmth of the sun with this delightful chowder and share its joy with family and friends!

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