Microwave Asparagus Clam Chowder
A comforting microwave clam chowder with tender asparagus, onions, and potatoes, featuring creamy milk and fresh herbs—perfect for quick, hearty meals anytime.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a deep casserole for 30 seconds in the microwave.
- Add chopped onion and cook for 2 1/2 minutes or until limp.
- Stir in diced potato and 1 cup of hot water.
- Drain the clam broth into the casserole, reserving the clams.
- Cover and cook for 6 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Add the asparagus, minced clams, milk, salt, and pepper to the casserole.
- Cook uncovered for an additional 5 minutes or until heated through.
- Stir in chopped parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce to the chowder. If you're short on time, frozen asparagus can be a great substitute for fresh, just be sure to adjust the cooking time. You can also swap out the clams for shrimp if you prefer a different seafood flavor, or even use a can of tuna for a faster option.
Serving Suggestions
This chowder pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or crusty bread for dipping. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside American recipes like Mosca'S Barbecue Shrimp or Salmon Or Tuna Croquettes. A sprinkle of additional parsley on top before serving adds a nice touch of color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chowder in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Avoid boiling, as this can alter the texture of the asparagus and clams.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Asparagus Clam Chowder contains roughly 729 calories, with 46g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (254% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (162% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2880mg per serving (125% 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 a different type of seafood in this chowder?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for minced clams, you can easily substitute them with shrimp or even crab meat. Just ensure that any seafood you use is cooked properly before adding it to the chowder.
How can I make this chowder thicker?
To thicken the chowder, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the mixture during the last few minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the chowder and return it to the pot for a creamier texture.
Can I make this chowder dairy-free?
Yes! To make a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative such as almond milk or coconut milk. You might want to add a little extra seasoning to enhance the flavor, as non-dairy milks can be lighter in taste.
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).