salmon chowder

we're trying to eat more fish in this little house, but i have so little experience cooking it that i'm really struggling to find ideas.  i had my first experience preparing scallops the other day (not really fish, but on the right track) and it was fine but nothing exceptional (pan fried with onions, garlic, red pepper, and rosemary, served with rice).  i'm looking for some healthy and creative fish recipes, so if you have a favourite, please post it here!

in the mean time, this recipe has become a standard in our house.  my husband (bless the man) will eat nearly anything with the same amount of enthusiasm ("mm.  tastes good babe"), but this recipe got a much more enthusiastic "MMMM!" and a few "wow!"'s and a "we can make this ANYtime".  and, since i usually have all the ingredients on hand, he's right!

thanks to my sister for posting such a delicious and husband-pleasing recipe:

Salmon Chowder - serves 6
prep time: 30 mins   cook time: 30 mins
adapted from: my sister's toddler-tested and mommy-approved recipes!

1 can (7 1/2oz) salmon - i use low sodium, packed in water - you can use two cans (or the large sized can) if you want more salmon
1/2 cup chopped onions
1/2 cup chopped celery
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter or margarine - i've used both butter and low sodium margarine
1 cup diced potatoes
1 cup diced carrots
2 cups chicken broth - i use low sodium from the store, or homemade if i have it
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup broccoli
1 can (13oz) evaporated milk - i use skim
1 package (10oz) frozen corn kernels, thawed - i just sprinkle it from a big bag til i think there's enough!
minced parsley - dried is not as nice but more likely to be found in my kitchen

Drain and flake salmon, reserving liquid.
Saute onions, celery and garlic in butter or margarine.  Add potatoes, carrots, reserved salmon liquid, chicken broth and seasonings.  Simmer, covered, for 20 minutes or until vegetables are nearly tender.
Add broccoli and cook 5 minutes.  Add flaked salmon, evaporated milk and corn.  Heat thoroughly.  Sprinkle with minced parsley to serve.


i wish i had a picture because it's a very pretty chowder!  lots of colour.  and so delicious, especially with a hearty piece of whole grain bread.  you can add whatever vegetables you have - i've done peas instead of corn, i think a red pepper might be nice, and i'm very tempted to add a bit of frozen spinach next time.    it's simple and delightful.

so that's my favourite easy fish recipe - what's yours?  i need some more inspiration!