Italian Clam Chowder
A hearty Italian clam chowder with tomatoes, potatoes, and herbs, offering a comforting, flavorful broth perfect for seafood lovers and cozy meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Puree the stewed tomatoes in a blender with hot pepper flakes or Tabasco sauce.
- Add the clam juice and potato cubes to the pureed tomatoes.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add zucchini or celery and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Add the drained chopped clams, dried basil, and Parmesan cheese.
- Serve the chowder garnished with croutons.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a dash of lemon juice while simmering the chowder. If you prefer more heat, adjust the hot pepper flakes or Tabasco sauce to taste. You can substitute the red potatoes with Yukon gold for a creamier texture, or use frozen zucchini if fresh is unavailable. Fresh herbs like parsley can also enhance the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Clam Chowder pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a light meal. For a more filling option, serve it alongside a pasta dish like Spinach Fettuccine With Shrimp And Scallops. You can also top the chowder with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the chowder thickens too much, add a bit of clam juice or water to reach your desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Clam Chowder contains roughly 905 calories, with 32g protein, 161g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (64% of the Daily Value), iron (60% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1572mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh clams instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh clams, but you'll need to steam them first and reserve the cooking liquid. Adjust the recipe by adding the clam meat and liquid at the appropriate stages for best results.
Is it possible to make this chowder dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, consider using a plant-based milk for a creamier texture without the dairy.
Can I freeze the chowder?
While it's possible to freeze the chowder, the texture of the clams may change upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, consider doing so without the clams, adding them fresh when reheating for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).