Vegetable Clam Chowder(Low-Fat)
A flavorful low-fat vegetable and clam chowder with tender vegetables and savory clams, perfect for a comforting, healthy meal that highlights fresh herbs and seafood.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine clams, bay leaves, oregano, chopped onion, low-fat chicken broth, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, green beans, parsley, tarragon, and black pepper.
- Cook all ingredients except clams for about 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- Add clam juice and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the clams before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, sauté the onions and carrots in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the broth. You can substitute fresh clams if available, or use canned clam juice for deeper taste. If you're looking to add more fiber, consider including some chopped kale or spinach. For a heartier dish, pair with crusty bread or a side salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal. For a twist, consider serving alongside Maureen Mcgrail's 'Chicago' Corn Chowder for a delightful chowder tasting experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water if the chowder thickens.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetable Clam Chowder(Low-Fat) contains roughly 2245 calories, with 43g protein, 363g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (284% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (274% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1130mg per serving (49% 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 frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, using frozen vegetables can save time and still provide great texture. Just add them to the pot when you would add the fresh vegetables, and cook until heated through. Keep in mind that cooking time may be slightly shorter.
Is this chowder gluten-free?
Yes, this vegetable clam chowder is gluten-free as long as you ensure that the chicken broth used is certified gluten-free. Always check labels when using pre-packaged products to avoid any gluten-containing ingredients.
How can I make this chowder vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the clams and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can enhance the flavor with additional herbs and spices, or add a splash of soy sauce for umami.
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).