## Ultimate Clams Delight: Clam Chowder to Savor!

Hey, food lovers! 👋

It’s a cozy day here in the suburbs, and I’ve got just the thing to warm you up and bring healthy goodness to your table. Today, we’re diving into the world of **Ultimate Clams Delight**: a clam chowder recipe that’s delicious, hearty, and positively healthy. Perfect for dinners with the family or a comforting solo meal!

This chowder is packed with nutrients from fresh veggies and clams, offering a delightful, creamy taste without compromising on your health goals. Yay for **Healthy Food Recipes** that don’t skimp on flavor!

So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

### Ingredients:

– 2 dozen fresh clams, scrubbed
– 4 slices of healthy turkey bacon, chopped
– 1 large onion, finely diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups of cubed potatoes (Yukon Gold works wonders!)
– 2 stalks of celery, diced
– 1 cup of carrots, diced
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk alternative)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamier version)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley and chives for garnish

### Step-by-Step Instructions:

#### Step 1: Prepping the Clams

1. **Scrub a Dub Dub:** Make sure your clams are well cleaned. I love soaking them in cold water for about 20 minutes with a sprinkle of salt to get rid of any sand.

2. **Steam & Set Aside:** Place the clams in a large pot with an inch of water at the bottom. Cover and steam until they just open (around 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside, reserving the clam water for extra flavor if you like.

#### Step 2: Preparing the Base

3. **Simmer that Bacon Love:** In your favorite large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the turkey bacon and cook until it’s crispy and perfect. Remove and set aside for later.

4. **Veggie Connection:** To the same pot, add your diced onion, garlic, celery, carrots, and potatoes. Cook until the veggies are soft and the onions are translucent. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen!

#### Step 3: Bringing it Together

5. **Broth Beauty:** Add the low-sodium broth to the pot. If you’re feeling like a flavor boost, add a bit of the reserved clam water. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

6. **Corny Delight:** Add the corn kernels and steamed clams (remove from their shells first). Simmer for another 5 minutes.

#### Step 4: The Creamy Finale

7. **Milk & Cream Magic:** Stir in the almond milk and, if you’re opting for extra creaminess, add the heavy cream. Heat until warmed through but don’t let it boil.

8. **Season & Serve:** Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Garnish with that crispy turkey bacon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley and chives.

### Tips & Tricks:

– **Health Boost:** Don’t shy away from adding extra veggies. Spinach, kale, or bell peppers would make this chowder even more nutrient-packed.
– **Thickening Agent:** If you prefer your chowder thicker, you can mash a few of the potatoes or add a touch of cornstarch.
– **Clam Loving:** If fresh clams are a rarity, canned ones can work as a substitute. Just be mindful of the sodium levels in canned goods.

### Personal Insights

I remember the first time I cooked clam chowder, my kitchen was filled with so much mess, but the end result was worth every bit of cleanup! Over time, I’ve refined this recipe to strike the perfect balance between health and flavor. I love adding a personal touch by sprinkling in some love (aka extra parsley) because fresh herbs just make everything better.

And there you have it — **Ultimate Clams Delight**! It’s not just any clam chowder; it’s a meal you and your family will remember and crave. Keep this one in your **Healthy Food Recipes** treasure chest and share the goodness.

Enjoy every spoonful and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

Stay cozy,
[Your Name, Suburban Food Blogger] 🍀👩‍🍳

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