A bowl of 30-minute salmon chowder soup with vegetables and herbs.

30-Minute, 25G Protein, Salmon Chowder Soup

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There’s something inherently cozy about a pot of salmon chowder simmering on the stove. Picture this: the rich aroma of fresh salmon mingling with buttery vegetables and a touch of cream, offering both warmth and comfort in every bowl. According to the USDA, a single serving of salmon provides a dose of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to promote heart health and reduce inflammation. So, while your senses are treated to a satisfying blend of flavors, your body will be thanking you too!

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Hearty Salmon Chowder

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A cozy salmon chowder filled with buttery vegetables and cream, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.

  • Author: amanda-miller
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3–4 potatoes, cubed
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 pound salmon, cut into chunks
  • 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add cubed potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
  3. Stir in heavy cream, salmon chunks, and corn. Cook for an additional 10 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley before serving.

Notes

For a thicker chowder, mash a cup of the potatoes and stir them back in. For added flavor, consider a splash of white wine or smoked paprika.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Enjoy it 🙂

Quick Tips to Make Salmon Chowder Soup Effortless

If you’ve ever found yourself intimidated by the idea of making chowder, fear not! This recipe transforms the notion of complicated seafood dishes into something utterly approachable and, dare I say, fun. Whipping up a hearty salmon chowder not only fills your belly but also offers a clever way to elevate your weeknight dinner game. Let’s dive into this vibrant, soul-warming recipe that’s easier than you might think.

What You’ll Need

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3-4 potatoes, cubed
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 pound salmon, cut into chunks
  • 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Let’s Cook

  1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Note: Don’t rush this step; you want the vegetables to caramelize slightly, which enhances the overall flavor!
  2. Add the cubed potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes. Expert tip: Use a fork to check for doneness. It should slide in easily!
  3. Stir in the heavy cream, salmon chunks, and corn. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through. Don’t overcook the salmon; it should flake easily but not be dry.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, seasoning in layers makes a big difference in taste.
  5. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley before serving. This adds a lovely pop of color and enhances freshness. Enjoy!

Healthy Reasons to Love This

A serving size of this delightful salmon chowder contains approximately 350 calories, 20 grams of protein, 34 grams of carbs, 15 grams of fat, and 4 grams of fiber. It’s a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A from the carrots, and a variety of minerals from the vegetables. Chowder doesn’t have to be a guilty pleasure; it can also be a healthy choice!

How to Serve It Best

Serve this scrumptious salmon chowder in generous bowls, and don’t forget a side of crusty bread to soak up the luscious broth. Consider pairing it with a light, arugula salad dressed with a simple lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. This dish shines in the cooler months when warm comfort food is a must, but it could also be enjoyed on a breezy summer evening.

Keep It Fresh

Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it even longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Pro tip: Add a splash of broth or cream to restore the consistency during reheating.

Pro Notes

  • Texture: For a thicker chowder, mash a cup of the potatoes and stir them back into the soup.
  • Flavor Depth: Try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone.
  • Presentation: Serve with a dollop of crème fraîche on top for an elegant touch.
  • Time-Saving: Use pre-chopped vegetables if you’re short on time. Just as tasty, without the hassle!
  • Broth Options: Experiment with flavored broth like seafood or clam for an extra kick.

Flavor Experiments

  • Seasonal Twist: Try adding diced butternut squash for a touch of sweetness and a seasonal flare.
  • Gourmet Touch: Incorporate a splash of white wine into the broth before adding the cream for sophistication.
  • Playful Variation: Experiment with toppings like crunchy bacon bits or avocado slices to enhance texture.

Lessons from Past Flops

  1. Overcooked Salmon: If the salmon is cooked too long, it can become tough. Always check its doneness a few minutes early.
  2. Flavorless Chowder: If your chowder lacks flavor, try adding salt gradually—and remember, it’s best to taste as you go!
  3. Runny Consistency: If your chowder turns out too thin, avoid panic! Just mash some of the potatoes or mix in a bit of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water).
  4. Too Much Corn: While corn adds sweetness, too much can overshadow the salmon. Stick to a cup to maintain balance.
  5. Bland Garnishes: Fresh herbs can make or break a dish. Always be generous with garnishes for added brightness!

Creative Second-Day Ideas

  • Salmon Chowder Tacos: Use the chowder as a filling for soft tacos with a crunchy cabbage slaw and avocado.
  • Chowder-Stuffed Potatoes: Hollow out baked potatoes and fill them with warm chowder for a fun twist.
  • Savory Omelette: Whisk some eggs and fold in chowder ingredients for a hearty breakfast omelette.

FAQs

What type of salmon is best for chowder?

Wild-caught salmon is often preferred for its rich flavor and healthy fat content. Chinook or sockeye work beautifully in chowder.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it before adding to the chowder. It still yields delicious results and is very convenient.

Is it possible to make chowder without cream?

Certainly! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter option or use a combination of milk and a thickening agent like flour.

What should I do if my chowder is too salty?

If your chowder is too salty, adding diced potatoes can help absorb some of the excess salt. Cook them in the chowder until tender, then remove them before serving.

Now you’ve got all the resources to make an amazing salmon chowder at home! With its unbeatable taste and wholesome ingredients, you’ll be invited to the dinner table time and time again. Enjoy every savory spoonful!