Instructions: Place tomatoes in nonmetal colander over bowl. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon salt on top; toss to mix well. Allow tomatoes to drain at least 1 hour.

Meanwhile, cut corn kernels off the cobs into small bowl. Scrape cobs with dull side of knife to extract liquid from cobs into same bowl; set aside. Discard 1 cob; break remaining cob in half.

Heat margarine in heavy medium saucepan over medium-high heat until melted and bubbly. Add shallots and garlic; reduce heat to low. Cover and cook about 5 minutes or until shallots are soft and translucent.

Add milk, broth, sage, pepper and reserved corn cob halves. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low; simmer, uncovered, 10 minutes. Remove and discard cob halves.

Add corn with liquid; return to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low; simmer, uncovered, 15 minutes more. Dissolve cornstarch in water; add to chowder, mixing well. Stir until thickened.

Remove from heat; stir in drained tomatoes and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Spoon into bowls. Garnish with additional fresh sage, if desired.

This recipe yields 6 appetizer servings.

Comments: This chowder takes advantage of the flavor of vegetables that are at their best in summer. The tomatoes are salted to intensify the flavor. Most of the salt comes out during draining, adding little sodium.

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