This Summer Squash & Corn Chowder is a delightful way to enjoy the fresh flavors of the season. Combining the sweetness of corn with the mild, tender texture of summer squash, this chowder is both light and satisfying. The creamy base, accented by sharp cheddar cheese and crispy bacon, creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or as a hearty main course, this chowder is sure to be a hit with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.

Photo byElizabeth

In this recipe, the summer squash and corn are the stars, providing a fresh and vibrant flavor that’s complemented by the creamy broth. The addition of crispy bacon and green onions not only adds texture but also elevates the overall taste, making each spoonful a delightful experience. This chowder is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a quick and comforting meal.

Serving Suggestions:

- Serve Summer Squash & Corn Chowder with a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese and crispy bacon on top, as shown in the photo.

- Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

- For added freshness, garnish with chopped green onions or fresh herbs like parsley or chives.

- This chowder also pairs well with a chilled glass of white wine or iced tea.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):

• • - Calories: 350
  • - Total Fat: 20g
  • - Saturated Fat: 10g
  • - Cholesterol: 50mg
  • - Sodium: 600mg
  • - Total Carbohydrates: 35g
  • - Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • - Sugars: 8g
  • - Protein: 10g

Storage Information:

- Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

- This chowder can also be frozen, though the texture may change slightly. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Photo byElizabeth

Summer Squash & Corn Chowder Recipe

Ingredients:

• - 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• - 1 small onion, diced
• - 2 cloves garlic, minced
• - 2 medium summer squash, diced
• - 2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 3 ears of corn)
• - 3 cups chicken broth
• - 1 cup heavy cream
• - 1 teaspoon salt
• - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• - 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon:

   - In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

   - Add the unsalted butter to the pot with the bacon fat. Once melted, add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add the Squash and Corn:

   - Stir in the diced summer squash and fresh corn kernels. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.

4. Make the Chowder:

   - Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Let the chowder simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Blend and Add Cheese:

   - If you prefer a smoother chowder, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can blend half of the chowder in a regular blender and return it to the pot.

   - Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the chowder.

6. Serve:

   - Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with the crispy bacon, additional shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions.

Summer Squash & Corn Chowder is a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for enjoying the fresh flavors of summer. With its rich, velvety texture and the combination of sweet corn and tender squash, this chowder is sure to become a favorite. Serve it warm, with the delicious toppings, for a meal that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.