Traditional Seafood Paella

Recipe

Traditional Seafood Paella

Mediterranean Delight: Seafood Paella Catalana

Indulge in the flavors of Spain with this authentic Seafood Paella recipe. Bursting with vibrant colors and rich aromas, this dish is a staple in Spanish cuisine, specifically originating from Catalonia.

Jan Dec

20 minutes

25 minutes

45 minutes

4 servings

Medium

Mediterranean diet, Pescatarian, Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Nut-free

Shellfish, Garlic

Vegan, Vegetarian, Paleo, Keto, Low-carb

Ingredients

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1885 KJ
  • Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    Heat the olive oil in a large paella pan or a wide, shallow skillet over medium heat.
  2. 2.
    Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until they turn translucent.
  3. 3.
    Stir in the diced red bell pepper and tomato, cooking until they soften.
  4. 4.
    Sprinkle the smoked paprika and saffron threads over the mixture, stirring well to combine.
  5. 5.
    Add the Bomba rice to the pan, stirring it to coat with the flavors.
  6. 6.
    Pour in the fish or vegetable broth, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.
  7. 7.
    Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, without stirring.
  8. 8.
    Arrange the mixed seafood (mussels, clams, shrimp, squid) on top of the rice, gently pressing them into the mixture.
  9. 9.
    Continue simmering for another 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the seafood is tender.
  10. 10.
    Remove the pan from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
  11. 11.
    Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Seafood — Ensure that the seafood is fresh and properly cleaned before adding it to the paella. Overcooking the seafood can result in a rubbery texture, so be mindful of the cooking time for each type of seafood.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use Bomba rice for the best results, as it absorbs flavors well and maintains its shape during cooking.
  • Allow the paella to rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • For a smoky flavor, you can add a small amount of chorizo or smoked sausage to the dish.
  • If you don't have a paella pan, a wide, shallow skillet will work as a substitute.
  • Experiment with different seafood combinations to suit your taste preferences.

Serving advice

Serve the Seafood Paella directly from the pan, allowing guests to enjoy the communal experience of sharing this delicious dish. Accompany it with lemon wedges for a refreshing burst of citrus flavor.

Presentation advice

Present the Seafood Paella in the traditional paella pan, showcasing the vibrant colors of the dish. Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of green and enhance the visual appeal.