Southwestern Chowder
Southwestern Chowder is a hearty, flavorful soup bursting with the vibrant tastes of salsa, beans, and corn. Perfect for warming up on chilly days, it offers a delightful combination of savory and spicy notes, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the chicken broth, salsa, drained kidney beans, and corn in a 3-quart pot.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until it comes to a gentle boil.
- Add the cooked pasta to the pot and stir to combine.
- Simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of canned. You can also swap kidney beans for black beans or pinto beans if preferred. To make it vegetarian, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. If you like a spicier kick, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This chowder pairs beautifully with Southwest Appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chowder with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess. It pairs well with crusty bread or tortilla chips for a satisfying meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or pairing it with Chicken Cacciataco for a fun twist on flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to avoid splatters. If the chowder thickens, add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southwestern Chowder contains roughly 1137 calories, with 63g protein, 242g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (503% of the Daily Value), protein (125% of the Daily Value), and iron (113% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1095mg per serving (48% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, this chowder can be made ahead of time. Prepare it up to the point of serving, then refrigerate. The flavors will deepen as it sits. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving. However, it's best to add the pasta just before serving to keep it from becoming mushy.
What can I use instead of salsa?
If you don't have salsa on hand, you can substitute it with diced tomatoes and some chopped onions, cilantro, and spices like cumin and chili powder to mimic the flavors. This can give you a similar taste while allowing you to customize the spice level.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check that your chicken broth and salsa are also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. With these substitutions, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free Southwestern 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).