Manhatten Clam Chowder
A hearty Manhattan clam chowder featuring tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and succulent clams, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a comforting, flavorful bowl.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped carrots, celery, onion, and green pepper with half of the clam juice in a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover and microwave for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Add tomatoes, pasta shells, and the remaining clam juice to the mixture.
- Cover and microwave for 10 to 12 minutes until the shells are tender.
- Stir in the minced or chopped clams and microwave, covered, for an additional 1 minute.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider sautéing the vegetables in olive oil before microwaving. If you don't have clam juice, you can substitute with vegetable or chicken broth. To enhance the flavor, add a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in water before the final microwaving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or crackers, making it a perfect dish for a cozy evening. For a delightful appetizer, consider serving alongside Hot Crabmeat Puffs On Toast Beds to complement the seafood theme.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Manhattan clam chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, transfer to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warmed through. Avoid boiling to preserve the texture of the clams and pasta shells.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Manhatten Clam Chowder contains roughly 331 calories, with 7g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (97% of the Daily Value), iron (69% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 722mg per serving (31% 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. Just ensure they are cleaned and steamed before adding them to the chowder. This will enhance the dish's flavor and texture. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh clams will require a bit longer to cook through than canned clams.
What can I use if I don't have small pasta shells?
If small pasta shells are unavailable, you can substitute with ditalini, elbow macaroni, or any small pasta shape. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type you choose to maintain the right texture in the chowder.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, omit the clams and clam juice. Instead, use vegetable broth and add more vegetables like zucchini or corn for extra flavor and texture. This will still yield a deliciously hearty chowder.
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).