Few dishes capture the spirit of Spanish cuisine like a classic paella recipe. Known for its golden saffron rice, tender seafood, and colorful vegetables, paella is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration. This traditional Spanish dish originated in Valencia and has become a symbol of gatherings, family meals, and festive occasions. If you’ve been craving a dish that’s hearty, vibrant, and rich in flavor, this paella recipe is the perfect choice.
Why You’ll Love This Paella Recipe
- Authentic flavors: Brings the taste of Spain straight to your kitchen.
- Customizable: Easily adapt with seafood, chicken, or vegetarian options.
- Impressive but simple: Looks gourmet but is surprisingly easy to prepare.
- One-pan meal: Everything cooks together for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup.
- Perfect for gatherings: Serves beautifully at dinner parties or family meals.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Paella Recipe
Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to make this dish shine:
- Saffron threads: The soul of paella, giving rice its golden color and distinct aroma.
- Short-grain rice: Absorbs flavors without turning mushy, creating the signature texture.
- Seafood mix (shrimp, mussels, squid): Adds briny sweetness and variety.
- Chicken or chorizo (optional): Provides depth and smoky richness.
- Bell peppers & peas: Add color, freshness, and natural sweetness.
- Onion & garlic: Build the savory base for the dish.
- Olive oil: Helps develop flavor and keeps everything balanced.
- Chicken or seafood broth: Infuses the rice with bold, savory flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Paella Recipe
- Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a wide pan. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers until softened.
- Add the rice: Stir in short-grain rice and saffron threads. Toast briefly to enhance flavor.
- Pour the broth: Add warm chicken or seafood stock. Stir once to distribute, then avoid stirring to achieve the signature crust (socarrat).
- Add protein: Layer in seafood, chicken, or chorizo. Let them cook gently in the simmering rice.
- Top with vegetables: Scatter peas and extra peppers on top for color and freshness.
- Simmer and set: Cook until the rice absorbs the liquid and forms a golden crust at the bottom.
- Rest and serve: Remove from heat, cover loosely, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving with lemon wedges.
Expert Tip: Resist the urge to stir once the broth is added. This allows the rice to develop that coveted crispy bottom layer.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Seafood-only version: Stick to shrimp, mussels, and calamari for a lighter taste.
- Chicken & chorizo twist: Add smoky Spanish chorizo and seared chicken for a richer flavor.
- Vegetarian paella: Skip the meat and seafood, and load up with artichokes, mushrooms, and extra vegetables.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika.
How to Store & Reheat
- Storage: Cool completely and transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture. Avoid microwaving too long, as it can dry out the rice.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this paella recipe, you’ll definitely want to try a few more comforting and flavorful dishes. For a cheesy, Italian-inspired classic, check out this Eggplant Parmesan Recipe. If you’re in the mood for a bold, street-food favorite, don’t miss this Elote Recipe. And for a hearty pasta dish that’s creamy and satisfying, give this Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef Recipe a try. Each one is packed with flavor and perfect for adding variety to your dinner rotation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make paella without saffron?
Yes, but saffron gives the authentic flavor. A pinch of turmeric can mimic the golden color.
What’s the best rice for paella?
Use short-grain rice like Bomba or Calasparra, as it absorbs broth without becoming mushy.
Can I cook paella in a regular skillet?
Absolutely! While a traditional paella pan is ideal, any wide, shallow skillet works.
How do I know when the paella is ready?
The rice should be tender, the liquid absorbed, and a light crust forming at the bottom.
This paella recipe is a timeless dish that brings bold Spanish flavors to your table. Whether you prepare it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, it’s sure to impress. Try it, share it with loved ones, and let the magic of Spain inspire your next meal. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how your paella turned out!
Paella Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 cup short-grain rice Bomba or Arborio
- 1 pinch saffron threads
- 3 cups chicken or seafood broth warm
- 8 –10 mussels cleaned
- 8 large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup squid rings optional
- 1/2 cup peas fresh or frozen
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or paella pan over medium heat.
- Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in rice, saffron, and smoked paprika. Toast for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in the warm broth. Stir once, then let simmer without stirring.
- Add shrimp, mussels, and squid on top of the rice. Cook until seafood is done and rice has absorbed most of the liquid (about 20 minutes).
- Scatter peas over the top in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Remove from heat, cover loosely, and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges before serving.