Spring Vegetable Chowder

Name: Spring Vegetable Chowder
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup fresh or frozen peas; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Nourishing Home Kitchen

I absolutely love making this Spring Vegetable Chowder when the weather warms up and fresh produce is abundant. It’s a vibrant and hearty dish that showcases the best of spring vegetables, and it comes together in just about 30 minutes. This chowder is not only delicious but also comforting, providing a perfect way for me to enjoy a nutritious meal that highlights seasonal flavors. Each spoonful feels like a hug in a bowl, making it an instant favorite at our dinner table.

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:41:35.425Z

When I first crafted this Spring Vegetable Chowder, I aimed to incorporate as many colorful ingredients as possible. The result was a beautifully vibrant soup that not only looks appetizing but is packed with nutrients. I found that by sautéing the vegetables first, I could bring out their natural sweetness, which enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

The secret to making this chowder truly special lies in using fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice at the end. This brightens the flavors and elevates the dish to something extraordinary. It's one of those recipes that I love sharing with friends, and they always want the recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A colorful medley of fresh spring vegetables
Creamy texture that is both satisfying and light
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The beauty of this Spring Vegetable Chowder lies in its versatility. While the recipe calls for specific vegetables like zucchini, peas, carrots, and celery, feel free to substitute with your seasonal favorites. Asparagus, green beans, or even fresh spinach can easily make an appearance in your chowder. If you’re using frozen vegetables, remember to add them in the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they don’t become mushy.

Fresh, seasonal ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also provide a variety of textures. When you sauté the onions and garlic, aim for a glossy finish, which indicates they’re perfectly caramelized and ready for the next steps. This layered approach builds a rich base that complements the spring vegetables beautifully.

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

Achieving the right creamy texture is crucial to this chowder. When adding the heavy cream, consider letting it warm slightly before incorporation. This simple trick prevents the cream from curdling when it hits the heat. I recommend stirring it in gently to maintain a smooth consistency, ensuring every bowl is luxurious and velvety.

Should you prefer a lighter version, feel free to substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that coconut milk will impart a subtle tropical flavor, enhancing the chowder's freshness.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This chowder stores beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead option. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Refrigerated, it can last for up to three days. For extra convenience, you can freeze leftovers; just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight, and when ready to enjoy, reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently.

Serving this chowder with crusty bread or a light salad can elevate your meal even more. I love a sprinkle of fresh dill or chives on top for added flavor and color. This simple garnish adds a refreshing twist, highlighting the freshness of the vegetables while bringing a pop of brightness to each bowl.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make a delightful Spring Vegetable Chowder.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup fresh or frozen peas
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure all your vegetables are prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Spring Vegetable Chowder.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add the Vegetables

Add the diced carrot and celery to the pot, cooking for another 5 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add in the zucchini and peas, and stir to combine.

Simmer the Chowder

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Finish with Cream and Lemon

Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and the lemon juice. Heat through for another 2 minutes before serving.

Garnish and Serve

Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your flavorful and creamy spring delight!

Serve hot and enjoy the flavors of spring!

Pro Tips

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream. You can also add any other seasonal vegetables you like, such as asparagus or green beans.

Ingredient Roles

Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the dish's flavor profile. The onion and garlic provide an aromatic base, creating depth that enhances the sweetness of the carrots and peas. The heavy cream not only adds richness but also balances the acidity from the lemon juice, helping to create a harmonious and comforting bowl of chowder.

Using vegetable broth as a base infuses the dish with additional flavor, so seek out a quality brand or homemade version if possible. Crafting your broth can take extra time but offers unparalleled taste and easy customization to suit your preferences, allowing you to control salt levels and ingredient quality.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chowder appears too thick after cooking, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water can remedy this without compromising the flavor. Always stir continuously and adjust gradually until you achieve your desired consistency. Conversely, if it's too thin, consider simmering it a bit longer to concentrate the flavors and allow it to reduce.

Be cautious when seasoning with salt and pepper, especially if your broth is already salty. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly, allowing the flavors to develop. This is especially crucial with lemon juice; it can quickly overpower if added in excess early on.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chowder ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Just be sure to add a little water or broth as it may thicken.

→ Is this chowder vegan-friendly?

You can easily make it vegan by using plant-based cream and vegetable broth.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like asparagus, corn, or even leafy greens such as spinach.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.