Spanish seafood rice

Spanish seafood rice

This Spanish seafood rice is a vibrant and aromatic dish, combining tender paella rice with a medley of colorful peppers and succulent seafood. Infused with fragrant saffron and brightened with fresh lemon juice, it's a delicious celebration of coastal flavors.

Seafood

Prep Time

15 min

Cook Time

25 min

Servings

4

Spanish seafood rice, often known as a simplified paella, originates from the Mediterranean coast of Spain where fresh seafood and aromatic spices come together in a single pan. This particular recipe showcases a harmony of tender paella rice cooked gently with saffron and vegetable stock, enriched by the sweetness of red and yellow peppers and the zest of garlic. The addition of a frozen seafood mix ensures the dish is bursting with varied textures and flavors, reminiscent of traditional seaside meals. Its golden hue and enticing aroma make it a perfect centerpiece for a casual dinner or festive gathering. The marinade of lemon juice adds a refreshing twist that balances the richness of the saffron and seafood. Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish not only delights the palate but also brightens the plate with a burst of green. Serve this Spanish seafood rice alongside a crisp white wine or a chilled rosé to complement its seaside flavors. A simple green salad or crusty bread would also pair beautifully, making each meal an authentic taste of Spain's culinary heritage.

Ingredients

  • 1 tblsp Olive Oil
  • 1 chopped Onion
  • 1 Red Pepper
  • 1 Yellow Pepper
  • 2 sliced Garlic Clove
  • 250 g Paella Rice
  • 800 ml Vegetable Stock
  • Pinch Saffron
  • 400 g Frozen Seafood mix
  • Juice of 1/2 Lemon
  • Handful Parsley

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chopped onion and gently soften it for 6 to 7 minutes until translucent and fragrant, avoiding any browning which can alter the delicate flavors. Next, toss in the vibrant red and yellow peppers along with the sliced garlic cloves. Cook these together for an additional 2 minutes, stirring to release their sweet and savory aromas. Sprinkle the paella rice into the pan, stirring for about 1 minute to thoroughly coat each grain with the flavored oil and vegetables. This step helps the rice absorb the rich flavors as it cooks. Pour in the vegetable stock and add a pinch of saffron, giving the mixture a gentle stir before bringing it to a boil. Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle bubble and cook uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gradual cooking ensures the rice becomes tender and infused with the saffron’s unique aroma. Once the rice is nearly done, fold in the frozen seafood mix and the juice of half a lemon. Continue cooking for 2 more minutes until the seafood is piping hot and fully cooked through, retaining its delicate texture. Serve the Spanish seafood rice in warmed bowls, generously scattered with fresh parsley for a pop of color and herbal brightness. Tip: Ensure you don't over-stir during cooking to keep a lovely texture and avoid mushy rice. For added depth, a splash of white wine can be introduced when adding the stock, imparting subtle complexity.

Quick Info

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
25 min
Total Time
40 min
Servings
4

You May Also Like