Here’s a bright and creamy Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder that celebrates peak-season produce. Sweet corn, tender zucchini, and a touch of smokiness come together in a velvety broth that’s light yet satisfying—perfect for warm evenings with crusty bread.
Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder
Ingredients
Base:
- 4 ears fresh corn, shucked (or 3 cups frozen/roasted corn kernels)
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium zucchini (about 1½ cups), diced
- 1 small yellow squash (optional), diced
- 1 medium potato (Yukon Gold or russet), peeled and diced
- 4 cups (960ml) vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Finish:
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk
- 1 tbsp fresh lime or lemon juice
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil, chives, or cilantro
Garnish (Optional):
- Crumbled bacon, cotija cheese, or toasted pepitas
- Extra zucchini ribbons or corn kernels
- A drizzle of chili oil or hot sauce
Instructions
- Prep the Corn:
- Cut kernels from the cobs (save the cobs!). Scrape the cobs with a knife to extract the milky pulp.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft (5 mins). Add garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer:
- Add corn kernels and pulp, zucchini, squash, potato, broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Blend (Optional):
- Remove the bay leaf. For a creamier texture, blend half the soup (or use an immersion blender) while leaving chunks of veggies intact.
- Finish:
- Stir in cream and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer 5 more minutes.
- Serve:
- Ladle into bowls. Top with fresh herbs, crispy bacon, or cheese. Serve with warm bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.
Tips & Variations
- Smoky Depth: Char the corn in a dry skillet before adding, or add a pinch of chipotle powder.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk and olive oil.
- Extra Hearty: Add 1 cup diced cooked chicken or white beans.
This chowder is summer in a bowl—sweet, smoky, and just creamy enough without feeling heavy. 🌞🌽
Enjoy!