Seafood Paella

Seafood Paella is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings the essence of Spain right to your kitchen. This classic recipe combines perfectly cooked Arborio rice infused with aromatic saffron, tender shrimp, mussels, calamari, and a medley of fresh vegetables. It’s a celebration of the sea and land, all in one pan. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this Seafood Paella is sure to become a favorite. The blend of smoky paprika, sweet bell peppers, and the subtle earthiness of saffron creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Seafood Paella is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in. This dish stands out because of its unique combination of ingredients and the depth of flavor that develops as the rice absorbs the broth and saffron. Unlike traditional paella that sometimes calls for short-grain bomba rice, this recipe uses Arborio rice, which is easy to find and creates a creamy yet firm texture.

What makes this recipe even more appealing is how accessible it is. You don’t need a special paella pan or exotic ingredients to get authentic results. With simple pantry staples like chicken broth and smoked paprika, along with fresh seafood, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal at home. Plus, if you love seafood and are looking for a recipe that highlights its best qualities, this one is a must-try. For those who enjoy experimenting with seafood dishes, this recipe pairs wonderfully with other seafood ideas like Instant Pot Cajun Shrimp, adding even more variety to your menu.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup mussels, cleaned
• 1 cup calamari, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup green peas
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

How To Make Seafood Paella

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you begin cooking, make sure your seafood is cleaned and prepped. Peel and devein the shrimp, clean the mussels by scrubbing and removing the beards, and slice the calamari into rings. Dice the red bell pepper and onion, mince the garlic, and set the green peas aside.

Step 2: Infuse the Broth

In a small saucepan, warm the chicken broth over low heat. Add the saffron threads to the broth and let them steep. This step is crucial as it allows the broth to take on the characteristic golden hue and fragrant aroma of saffron, which is the heart of Seafood Paella.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables and Spices

Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or paella pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking until they soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and stir it into the vegetables and spices. Toast the rice for 2-3 minutes, coating each grain with olive oil. This step enhances the nuttiness of the rice and helps it absorb the flavors better.

Step 5: Add the Broth and Simmer

Pour the saffron-infused chicken broth over the rice mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Add Seafood and Peas

Nestle the shrimp, mussels, and calamari into the rice. Scatter the green peas on top. Cover the pan with a lid or foil and cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and the mussels have opened. Discard any mussels that remain closed.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Let the paella rest for a few minutes before garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty finish. The citrus juice brightens the dish and complements the seafood perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the seafood, which can make it rubbery and tough.
• Using too much liquid, resulting in mushy rice instead of the desired slightly firm texture.
• Not letting the saffron steep in the broth, missing out on its full flavor and color.
• Skipping the toasting step for the rice, which significantly reduces the depth of flavor.
• Stirring the paella too often during the simmering phase, which prevents the rice from forming the prized crust at the bottom.

Dietary Options

• For a gluten-free version, ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.
• Vegetarian option: replace seafood with artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and extra vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a pescatarian-friendly alternative.
• For a low-sodium version, opt for homemade or low-sodium broth and reduce added salt.

Seasonal Variations

• Spring: Add fresh asparagus tips and snap peas for a crisp texture.
• Summer: Incorporate fresh tomatoes and corn kernels to brighten the dish.
• Fall: Use roasted butternut squash and kale along with the seafood for a heartier version.
• Winter: Add root vegetables like parsnips and carrots for warmth and sweetness.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Seafood Paella is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the rice and cover to retain moisture. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Avoid freezing seafood paella as the texture of the seafood may degrade.

For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the rice base and vegetables a day in advance. Store separately from the seafood and combine during the final cooking step to ensure the seafood remains tender and fresh.

FAQ

Can I use other types of rice for Seafood Paella?

While Arborio rice works well for its creamy texture, traditional paella often uses short-grain bomba rice which absorbs liquid beautifully. If you don’t have either, you can use other short-grain rice varieties but avoid long-grain rice to maintain the classic texture.

How do I know when the seafood is perfectly cooked?

Seafood cooks quickly; shrimp should turn pink and opaque, calamari should be tender and not rubbery, and mussels should open fully. If mussels remain closed after cooking, discard them as they might not be safe to eat.

Can I make Seafood Paella spicy?

Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or fresh chopped chili peppers when sautéing the vegetables to give the dish a spicy kick without overpowering the delicate seafood flavors.

What can I serve with Seafood Paella?

A light green salad and crusty bread complement the richness of the paella beautifully. For additional seafood inspiration, try pairing it with air fryer fish for a complete seafood feast.

Conclusion

Seafood Paella is a delightful, soul-satisfying dish that brings together the best of the sea and the earth in one pan. This recipe is approachable yet impressive, perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself to a special meal. With its robust flavors, beautiful colors, and balanced textures, Seafood Paella is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the process of creating this classic dish and savor every bite of this Mediterranean treasure.

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