Low-Fat Cheese And Vegetable Chowder
A light, hearty vegetable chowder with tender cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, perfect for a nutritious meal. Suitable for those seeking low-fat, comforting dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 4-quart pan, combine water, shredded cabbage, sliced carrots, chopped onion, and the dry au gratin potato mix.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes.
- Combine the skim milk and cornstarch; add to the soup.
- Simmer, covered, for 10 to 15 minutes more or until potatoes are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onions before adding them to the chowder. You can also substitute the cabbage with kale or spinach for a different twist. If you're looking to reduce sodium, choose a low-sodium au gratin potato mix. Additionally, adding a pinch of garlic powder or some herbs can enhance the taste of this chowder.
Serving Suggestions
This chowder is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a light dish like Microwave Broccoli And Cheese for a balanced dinner. For a heartier meal, you might enjoy it with a protein such as grilled chicken or a side of roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply transfer the chowder to a saucepan and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through. Add a splash of milk if the chowder thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Fat Cheese And Vegetable Chowder contains roughly 1049 calories, with 19g protein, 173g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (259% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (91% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (67% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1646mg per serving (72% 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 make this chowder in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chowder a day ahead. Just let it cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra milk if needed to restore its creamy texture.
Is this chowder suitable for freezing?
While the chowder can be frozen, it's best to omit the skim milk until reheating to prevent separation. Freeze in airtight containers for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then add the milk before reheating.
What can I add to make this chowder heartier?
To make this chowder more filling, consider adding cooked protein such as diced chicken, turkey, or even beans for a vegetarian option. You can also mix in some potatoes or corn for extra texture and flavor.
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).