Zucchini Garden Chowder

This is such a perfect meal for cold weather! And it's another recipe passed on from Leah. She always makes these amazing soups/chowders that are just amazing! This one is so hearty and delicious. BTW you can make this with just veggies, or add chicken pieces (which I did).

Zucchini Garden Chowder

2 TBS butter or margarine

2 medium zucchini (chopped)

1 medium onion (chopped)

2 TBS fresh parsley (chopped)

1 TBS fresh basil (chopped), or 1 tsp dried

1/3 cup flour

3/4 tsp salt

1/2 tsp pepper

3 cups water

3 chicken bouillon cubes

1 tsp lemon juice

2 cups tomatoes (chopped)

1 1/2 cups evaporated milk (12 oz can)

2 cups corn (or 1 can, drained)

1-2 pounds chicken (cooked & chopped), optional

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)

1) Melt butter in soup pot over medium heat

2) Add zucchini, onion, parsley, & basil. Saute until tender.

3) Stir in seasonings and flour

4) Gradually stir in water to make a smooth stock

5) Add bouillon & lemon juice. Mix well.

6) Bring to boil, reduce heat, & cook stirring often for 2 minutes.

7) Add tomatoes, milk, corn, & chicken (optional). Return to boil.

8) Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 5 minutes, until corn is tender.

9) Just before serving, add cheeses & stir until melted. Add a pinch of sugar to taste (optional) & garnish with chopped fresh parsley (optional)