When the temperatures begin to dip and the leaves turn golden, there’s an irresistible call for a coziness that can only be met with a warm bowl of soup. That’s where my Creamy and Comforting Salmon Chowder comes in. Picture this: the rich aroma of sautéed onions and garlic filling your kitchen, mingling with the earthy sweetness of carrots and celery. As you let the ingredients simmer into a velvety embrace, the tender chunks of salmon weave through, offering a heartwarming meal that’s not only delicious but also high in protein and omega-3s.
What I adore most about this chowder is its versatility. Whether you prefer fresh salmon or a quick option with canned, or even wish to experiment with various thickeners and non-dairy alternatives, this recipe has you covered. It’s the perfect dish for satisfying cravings while catering to different dietary needs. So, grab your favorite pot and let’s create a culinary masterpiece that promises to warm your heart and soul!
Why is Salmon Chowder the Ultimate Comfort Food?
Comforting, Warmth in a Bowl: This Salmon Chowder invites you to experience pure indulgence.
Protein-Rich Delight: Packed with omega-3s, it’s nutritious and filling.
Versatile: Easily customize it with fresh or canned salmon, or make it dairy-free!
Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish caters to busy weekdays.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or a cozy gathering with friends—everyone will love it!
Storing Bonus: It keeps well, and often tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
Salmon Chowder Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to make this comforting dish just right!
For the Chowder Base
- Olive Oil – A must for sautéing vegetables and adding richness.
- Onion, Diced (1/2 cup) – Provides a savory, aromatic base to kick things off.
- Celery, Diced (1/2 cup) – Adds delightful crunch and enhances the overall flavor.
- Carrot, Diced (1/2 cup) – Introduces sweetness and beautiful color to the chowder.
- Garlic, Minced (1 clove) – Enhances flavor with aromatic notes that bring warmth.
- Chicken Broth (2 cups) – Base liquid providing depth; vegetable broth is a great vegetarian substitute.
- Milk (2 cups) – Ensures creaminess; swap with non-dairy alternatives to keep it lactose-free.
- Potatoes, Peeled and Diced (2 medium) – Adds heartiness and texture for body in your chowder.
For the Star Ingredient
- Salmon Fillets (1 pound) – Fresh salmon is recommended for best flavor and texture!
- Corn Kernels (1/2 cup) – Bring in a burst of sweetness; frozen or fresh will do just fine.
For Seasoning
- Fresh Thyme, Chopped (1 teaspoon) – Offers a fresh, herbal note that brightens the dish.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing all the flavors to taste.
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh Parsley, Chopped (optional, 2 tablespoons) – Adds a pop of color and a fresh finish.
- Lemon Juice (optional, 1 tablespoon) – Adds brightness to this delicious Salmon Chowder.
Feel free to customize these ingredients to suit your palate, making this dish both delicious and adaptable!
How to Make Salmon Chowder
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Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, warm up olive oil over medium heat. Then, add diced onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
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Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute. You’ll notice the wonderful aroma as the garlic becomes fragrant, but be sure not to let it burn.
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Combine Broth and Milk: Pour in chicken broth and milk, and stir everything together smoothly. This creates the creamy base for your chowder.
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Cook Potatoes: Toss in diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
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Incorporate Salmon and Corn: Gently fold in salmon chunks and corn kernels. Let it cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily.
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Season and Serve: Stir in chopped thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Add lemon juice if desired, and serve hot with a garnish of fresh parsley for that vibrant touch.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for an extra cozy experience!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Salmon Chowder Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these simple yet delightful twists that will make your Salmon Chowder uniquely yours!
- Fresh vs. Canned: Swap fresh salmon for canned salmon to save time without sacrificing flavor. All options are delicious!
- Dairy-Free Delight: Replace milk with coconut milk or your favorite non-dairy milk to create a creamy yet dairy-free version. Enjoy the subtle sweetness!
- Extra Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding diced bell peppers or spinach. These greens will bring a fresh pop and vibrant color.
- Gluten-Free: Use a cornstarch slurry to thicken instead of flour; it’s an easy way to keep your chowder gluten-free and still lusciously creamy.
- Cheese Alternative: Try nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a cheesy flavor with fewer calories and dairy. You’ll love the umami!
- Tangy Twist: Add a splash of white wine to enhance the depth of flavor in your chowder. Toast to the warmth it brings!
- Spicy Kick: A dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes will elevate your chowder’s heat level, catering to spice lovers!
- Herbal Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like dill or parsley to personalize the flavor of your chowder. Each herb offers a unique taste experience!
Embrace your creativity and make this Salmon Chowder a satisfying meal tailored just for you!
Make Ahead Options
These Salmon Chowder make-ahead tips are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (onion, celery, and carrot) and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance. Additionally, you can measure out the broth, milk, and seasonings to streamline your cooking process. For optimal freshness, store your salmon in the refrigerator until the day you plan to cook it. When you’re ready to enjoy your chowder, simply sauté the prepped ingredients, add the liquids, and follow the cooking instructions. This way, you can savor a hearty, comforting meal without the fuss, enjoying the same delicious flavors just as if you made it all from scratch!
How to Store and Freeze Salmon Chowder
Fridge: Store your Salmon Chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It often tastes even better the next day!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chowder in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
Batch Cooking Advantage: Make a larger batch to enjoy cozy meals throughout the week, making the Salmon Chowder perfect for meal prep!
Expert Tips for Salmon Chowder
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh salmon for a superior flavor and texture that canned salmon simply can’t match.
- Avoid Overcheesing: Limit cheese to 1-1.5 cups to maintain that delicious chowder taste without overwhelming the dish.
- Mind the Garlic: Cook garlic just until fragrant to prevent bitterness; overcooking can spoil the lovely flavor of your chowder.
- Perfectly Tender Potatoes: Cut potatoes into even pieces for uniform cooking and ensure they become tender during simmering.
- Flexibility in Thickness: If you prefer a thicker chowder, consider adding a cornstarch slurry or roux as a non-dairy thickening option.
- Adjust to Taste: Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper at the end to truly elevate the flavor profile of your Salmon Chowder!
What to Serve with Salmon Chowder?
With a bowl of warm, creamy goodness in hand, it’s time to elevate your dining experience with the perfect accompaniments.
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Crusty Bread: The ideal partner for soaking up every velvety spoonful of chowder while adding a delightful crunch.
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Garlic Toast: Buttery and fragrant, it complements the richness of the chowder perfectly, offering a satisfying contrast in texture.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with a lemon vinaigrette brings a refreshing brightness that balances the creamy soup.
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Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with herbs provides a hearty base that catches additional flavors and enriches the meal.
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Steamed Asparagus: Tender, green asparagus adds a crisp bite and a touch of elegance while enhancing your salmon chowder experience.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio offers a refreshing pairing that enhances the seafood flavors.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp will provide sweet comfort that perfectly rounds out your savory meal.
Each of these options nicely complements the ingredients of the salmon chowder, creating a harmonious dining experience that feels both homey and special.
Salmon Chowder Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best salmon for my chowder?
Absolutely! When choosing salmon, look for fillets that are bright in color with a moist appearance. Avoid any that have dark spots or a fishy smell. Fresh salmon typically yields a better flavor and texture in your chowder than canned. If using canned salmon, ensure it’s packed in water or oil for optimal taste.
What is the best way to store leftover salmon chowder?
Very simple! Store your Salmon Chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just remember to reheat gently over low heat to keep it creamy!
Can I freeze salmon chowder?
Absolutely! To freeze your chowder, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy texture.
What are common mistakes to avoid when making salmon chowder?
One common mistake is overcooking the salmon; it should be added towards the end and cooked just until it flakes easily. Also, ensure you don’t burn the garlic, as it can impart a bitter taste. Lastly, cutting your potatoes into even pieces ensures they cook uniformly and become tender throughout the dish.
Can I make this chowder dairy-free?
Very much so! You can easily substitute the regular milk with non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk, and reduce or eliminate cheese. For a creamy texture, consider adding some pureed cashews or using coconut milk. This way, you can enjoy a delicious salmon chowder that fits your dietary needs!
What should I do if my chowder is too thick?
If you find your chowder is thicker than you’d like, simply add some additional chicken or vegetable broth to thin it out. Start by adding a little at a time and stir until you reach your desired consistency. You can also incorporate a splash of milk or a non-dairy alternative for additional creaminess.
Savory Salmon Chowder: A Cozy Recipe for Any Night
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, warm up olive oil over medium heat. Then, add diced onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and milk, and stir everything together smoothly.
- Toss in diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Gently fold in salmon chunks and corn kernels. Let it cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.
- Stir in chopped thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Add lemon juice if desired, and serve hot with a garnish of fresh parsley.
