How to Make Easy Seafood Paella

Easy Seafood Paella Recipe

Seafood paella is a classic Spanish dish that combines fresh seafood, aromatic saffron, and perfectly cooked rice in one delicious pan. This simplified recipe brings the authentic flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Ingredients

• 2 cups paella rice or short-grain rice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon saffron threads (soaked in 2 tablespoons warm water)
• 4 cups fish or seafood stock
• 1 lb (500g) fresh seafood mix (shrimp, mussels, and squid)
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Lemon wedges and fresh parsley (for serving)

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Instructions

Preparing the Base:

1. Heat olive oil in a large paella pan or wide skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the cherry tomatoes, smoked paprika, and saffron water. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Cooking the Rice:

1. Add the rice to the pan and stir to coat it in the vegetable and spice mixture.
2. Pour in the fish or seafood stock and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the rice simmer, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes. Avoid stirring to allow the rice to form a crispy layer at the bottom (socarrat).

Adding the Seafood:

1. Nestle the shrimp, mussels, and squid into the rice during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
2. Add the frozen peas (if using) and cover the pan loosely with foil or a lid.
3. Cook until the seafood is fully cooked, and the mussels have opened. Discard any unopened mussels.

Serving:

• Garnish the paella with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a burst of freshness.
• Pair with a crisp white wine or sangria for an authentic Spanish dining experience.