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Creamy Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder

creamy summer corn and zucchini chowder - featured image
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A warm, comforting chowder featuring fresh summer corn and zucchini in a buttery, velvety broth. This easy one-pot meal balances creamy richness with bright summer flavors, perfect for cozy summer evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 5 medium ears)
  • 2 medium zucchinis, diced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (950 ml)
  • 1 cup whole milk (240 ml)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (120 ml), optional but recommended
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prep the veggies: Cut kernels off the corn cobs, dice zucchini, finely chop onion and garlic.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Melt butter over medium heat in a large pot. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Add flour and cook: Sprinkle flour over onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 2 minutes to form a roux.
  4. Pour in broth and simmer: Slowly whisk in broth, add corn kernels, thyme, and smoked paprika. Simmer gently until corn is tender, about 8-10 minutes.
  5. Add zucchini and milk: Stir in zucchini and milk. Cook until zucchini is tender but holds shape, about 4-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Puree part of the chowder: Remove half the chowder and blend until smooth. Return puree to pot and stir to combine.
  7. Finish with cream and adjust seasoning: Stir in heavy cream and warm through without boiling. Adjust salt, pepper, and smoked paprika as needed.
  8. Serve and garnish: Ladle chowder into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives. Serve warm.

Notes

If chowder is too thick, add more broth or milk to loosen. Blend half the soup for creaminess without losing texture. Use smoked paprika for subtle smoky flavor or substitute with sweet paprika or cayenne for heat. For gluten-free, substitute flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend. Dairy-free options include swapping butter for olive oil and using coconut milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn chowder, zucchini chowder, summer soup, creamy soup, comfort food, one-pot meal, vegetarian soup

Find it online: https://chloeplate.com/creamy-summer-corn-and-zucchini-chowder-recipe-easy-comfort-food/