Delicious Zucchini Corn Chowder Recipe for Healthy Comfort Food

The aroma of Zucchini Corn Chowder wafts through your kitchen, mingling with the savory scents of sautéed bacon and fresh vegetables. Picture yourself on a cozy evening, wrapped in a throw or sharing laughter with friends, all while this delightful dish simmers on the stove, promising warmth and joy in every bite.

As the chowder bubbles away, you can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia – perhaps it reminds you of lazy summer afternoons spent tasting the fresh produce from your garden or family gatherings where everyone gathered around for a hearty meal. This Zucchini Corn Chowder is not just a recipe; it’s an experience steeped in flavors and memories, perfect for comforting evenings when you need a little extra love on your plate.

Ingredients for Zucchini Corn Chowder

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Zucchini Corn Chowder:

1 Tbsp. butter – Adds rich flavor and helps to sauté the vegetables to perfection.

2 strips bacon, chopped – For a savory, smoky crunch that elevates the chowder’s profile.

1 cup chopped yellow onion – Offers a sweet and savory base that enhances the chowder’s depth.

2 celery ribs, chopped – Contributes a crisp texture and fresh flavor that complements the corn.

1 medium carrot, peeled + chopped – Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color to the mix.

2 garlic cloves, minced – A must-have for that aromatic undertone in every delicious spoonful.

½ tsp. dried thyme – Herbaceous notes that bring warmth and earthiness to the dish.

2 medium russet potatoes, peeled, diced into ½-inch cubes – Provides heartiness and texture, making each serving filling.

4 cups water (or veggie stock) – Choose stock for added richness, or stick with water for a lighter option.

1 bay leaf – Infuses the chowder with gentle herbal notes; don’t forget to remove it before serving!

4 ears of sweet fresh corn, husk + silk removed and kernels cut from cob – The star of the show, providing sweetness and that delightful crunch.

1 medium zucchini, diced into ½-inch cubes – Adds color, nutrients, and a slight crunch for balance.

1 cup half and half – Creates a creamy and luscious consistency that makes chowder irresistible.

Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the wonderful flavors.

Chopped fresh parsley, to garnish – For a fresh touch and pop of color when serving.

Cayenne pepper, to serve, optional – A sprinkle of spice to kick it up a notch if you crave a little heat.

How to Make Zucchini Corn Chowder

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Zucchini Corn Chowder:

Step 1: Sauté the Bacon
In a large, heavy-duty stockpot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it renders its fat and becomes golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Toss in the chopped onion, celery, carrots, garlic, and dried thyme. Sauté until the vegetables start to soften, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Start the Broth
Add the diced potatoes, water (or veggie stock), and the bay leaf. Raise the heat to medium-high and bring everything to a simmer. Once simmering, lower the heat back to medium and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the potatoes are halfway tender.

Step 4: Incorporate the Zucchini and Corn
Stir in the diced zucchini and corn kernels, seasoning with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 8-12 minutes, until all the vegetables are nicely tender.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess
Remove the bay leaf from the pot, and transfer two cups of the chowder to a blender or food processor. Puree until smooth, then mix it back into the pot.

Step 6: Finish with Half and Half
Add the half and half and stir gently, heating just until warmed through. Taste and adjust your seasoning if necessary, adding more salt and pepper to your liking.

Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and, if you’re feeling bold, a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Enjoy the cozy embrace of your homemade Zucchini Corn Chowder, and may every spoonful take you back to sun-soaked afternoons or cherished family dinners!

This showstopping Zucchini Corn Chowder delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Zucchini Corn Chowder Cooking Process

Start by rendering the bacon until crispy before adding the aromatics. Once those are soft, introduce the potatoes to build a robust base. Finally, stir in the zucchini and corn for that vibrant freshness.

Add Your Touch to Zucchini Corn Chowder

Feel free to swap out the bacon for smoked turkey or omit it entirely for a vegetarian delight. You can also experiment with spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Storing & Reheating Zucchini Corn Chowder

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive its creamy texture.

Sometimes, when I make this Zucchini Corn Chowder, my friends swear that it tastes better every time. We laugh and joke about how it might just be the love I add in with the ingredients!

FAQs About Zucchini Corn Chowder

What is Zucchini Corn Chowder?

Zucchini Corn Chowder is a creamy, comforting soup that combines fresh zucchini, sweet corn, and flavorful vegetables. This dish typically uses bacon for a savory touch, but it can easily be made vegetarian. The key to a great chowder lies in the balance of textures and flavors, with tender chunks of veggies surrounded by a velvety broth. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as a delightful starter for any gathering, offering a burst of summer flavors in every spoonful.

How do I make Zucchini Corn Chowder vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version of Zucchini Corn Chowder, simply omit the bacon and replace it with smoked turkey or tempeh for added depth. Use vegetable broth instead of water to enhance the flavor profile. You can also spice things up by adding smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat. The rest of the recipe remains the same, ensuring you enjoy all the deliciousness without any meat.

Can I freeze Zucchini Corn Chowder?

Yes, Zucchini Corn Chowder can be frozen, making it a great meal prep option. Allow the chowder to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

What can I serve with Zucchini Corn Chowder?

Zucchini Corn Chowder pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread, homemade biscuits, or a light green salad for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of freshly grated cheese or croutons on top can add an extra crunch, while a dollop of sour cream or yogurt creates a rich garnish. This chowder is versatile enough to be enjoyed as a hearty main dish or a humble appetizer, depending on your mood.

Conclusion for Zucchini Corn Chowder

In conclusion, Zucchini Corn Chowder is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients and comforting flavors that can bring warmth to any meal. Whether you choose the traditional recipe with bacon or go for a vegetarian twist, every bowl is packed with goodness. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this chowder allows for endless customization. Treat yourself to a bowl of Zucchini Corn Chowder; it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the flavors of summer any time of year!

Delicious Zucchini Corn Chowder Recipe for Healthy Comfort Food

This Zucchini Corn Chowder is a creamy and vibrant dish that combines fresh vegetables in a comforting soup.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 8 bowls

Course: Dinner Recipes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 189

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

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

Equipment

• heavy-duty bottom stockpot
• Blender

Method

 

1. In a large heavy-duty bottom stockpot or dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until bacon renders its fat and begins to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add onion, celery, carrots, garlic, and thyme; cook until vegetables begin to soften, stirring a couple of times, about 5 minutes.
3. Add potatoes, water, and bay leaf. Raise the heat to medium high and bring to a simmer, then lower the heat back to medium and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the potatoes are halfway cooked.
4. Add zucchini and corn; season with salt and pepper, to taste, and simmer for an additional 8-12 minutes or until the vegetables are completely tender.
5. Discard the bay leaf and then transfer 2 cups of chowder to a food processor or blender; puree until smooth. Stir the mixture back into the pot. Add half and half and cook just until heated through. Taste for salt and pepper.
6. Serve garnished with fresh chopped parsley and sprinkle of cayenne pepper, optional.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 189kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 5.4gFat: 8.6gSodium: 131.2mgSugar: 6g

Notes

Feel free to swap out the bacon for smoked turkey or omit it entirely for a vegetarian delight. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

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