basic seafood paella recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best basic seafood paella recipe

Paella is a classic Spanish dish that has been a staple in my household for years. I love this recipe because it’s easy to make and can be adapted to suit any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next family gathering, this basic seafood paella recipe is sure to please.

The combination of succulent seafood, flavorful saffron-infused rice, and the perfect balance of spices will transport you straight to the sun-kissed coast of Spain. As a busy mom, I appreciate how this recipe can be scaled up or down depending on the number of people I’m feeding. It’s also incredibly versatile – simply swap out the seafood for chicken or veggies if you prefer.

My kids adore helping me stir the paella pan and watching it transform from a simple rice dish into a rich, flavorful feast. We often serve it with a side of garlic bread or crusty baguette for dipping in the savory broth. But what I think I love most about this recipe is its incredible health benefits.

Paella is made with wholesome ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and vegetables, which are packed with antioxidants and fiber. And when you use sustainable seafood options like shrimp and mussels, you can feel good about serving this dish to your loved ones. Of course, no paella recipe would be complete without mentioning the magic of saffron.

This expensive spice may be pricey, but trust me – it’s worth every penny. The subtle earthy flavor and vibrant yellow color it adds to the dish are truly unforgettable.

Basic Seafood Paella

4.7 from 940 votes

A classic Spanish dish featuring a variety of seafood cooked with saffron-infused rice. This recipe serves four people and takes about 45 minutes to prepare and cook.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Paella

2 cups Bomba rice
1 tsp saffron threads
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 large red bell pepper, chopped
1 cup frozen peas
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups seafood stock
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Seafood

1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams)
1 lb firm white fish, cut into chunks
1 lemon, sliced

For Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large paella pan over medium heat.
2Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
3Cook until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent.
4Stir in saffron threads, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
6Add rice to the pan and stir to coat with the saffron mixture.
7Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted.
8Pour in the diced tomatoes and seafood stock.
9Stir well to combine.
10Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
11Simmer for 15 minutes, until the rice is almost cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
12Arrange the mixed seafood and fish chunks on top of the rice.
13Sprinkle with lemon slices.
14Cover the pan and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the seafood is cooked through and the fish is opaque.
15The rice should be tender and the liquid fully absorbed.
16Remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
17This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to steam.
18Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
19Serve hot and enjoy your paella.

🔧Equipment

Large paella pan or wide skillet
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: Use a large paella pan for even cooking and better presentation. Adjust the seafood based on your preference and availability. Ensure the seafood is fresh for the best flavor.

This basic seafood paella recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family dinner party or need a quick weeknight meal.

It’s incredibly easy to make and stores beautifully in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge or frozen for months.

When reheating leftover paella, simply add some chicken broth or water to keep it moist and flavorful.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Basic Seafood Paella

Q: What type of rice do I need for paella?

You’ll want to use short-grain rice specifically designed for paella-making. This type of rice is starchier than regular long-grain rice and will hold its shape beautifully after cooking.

Q: Can I substitute other types of seafood in place of shrimp and mussels?

Sure! Feel free to experiment with other types of seafood like scallops, clams, or even chicken if you prefer.

Q: How do I prevent the rice from burning during cooking?

Keep an eye on the heat – if the rice starts to brown too quickly, simply reduce the heat or add a bit more water to prevent burning.

Q: Can I make paella ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the ingredients and cook the rice mixture up to a day in advance – just refrigerate until ready to serve.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover paella?

To preserve the texture and flavor of your leftover paella, reheat it gently over low heat with some added liquid (such as chicken broth or water). Avoid microwaving as this can cause the rice to dry out.

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