Seafood Paella is a traditional Spanish dish brimming with flavors from saffron, seafood, and vegetables. The mixture of shrimp, mussels, and clams, along with aromatic rice, makes this a hearty dish perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties.

Ingredients:
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 lb mussels, cleaned
1/2 lb clams, cleaned
1 cup Arborio rice
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon saffron
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup white wine
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving

“Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

Instructions:
Cook the Vegetables:

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add Rice and Spices:

Stir in Arborio rice and paprika. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly.

Add Liquids:

Add saffron, chicken broth, and white wine to the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, about 15 minutes.

Add Seafood:

Stir in shrimp, mussels, and clams. Cover and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the seafood is cooked through and the mussels and clams have opened.

Serve:

Garnish with lemon wedges and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 400
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 850mg

Tips for Perfect Seafood Paella:

1. Use a Paella Pan: For the best results, a traditional paella pan is ideal. It helps distribute the heat evenly and allows the rice to cook uniformly. If you don’t have a paella pan, a wide, deep skillet will work.
2. Don’t Stir Too Much: The key to a perfect paella is to let the rice cook undisturbed, so avoid stirring it once you add the broth. This helps develop the crispy “socarrat” layer at the bottom, which is a sought-after feature of authentic paella.
3. Fresh Seafood: Try to use the freshest seafood available. If you can, buy local fish and shellfish for the best flavor. You can also use a variety of shellfish such as scallops, lobster, or crab depending on your preference.
4. Broth Matters: The broth plays a crucial role in infusing the rice with flavor. Homemade seafood broth is ideal, but you can also use store-bought broth or even chicken broth in a pinch.
5. Control the Heat: Paella needs to be cooked over medium-low heat to avoid burning the rice while ensuring it’s fully cooked through. Don’t raise the heat too high at any point during the cooking process.
6. Customize Your Paella: Paella is incredibly versatile. If you’re not a fan of a certain seafood, you can swap it out for another. You can also add other vegetables like peas, artichokes, or even tomatoes to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Seafood Paella:

• Flavorsome and Aromatic: The combination of saffron, smoked paprika, garlic, and fresh seafood creates an irresistible and aromatic dish that’s rich in flavor.
• Complete One-Pan Meal: Paella is a full meal in one pan, featuring protein, rice, and vegetables, making it an easy and convenient option for dinner.
• Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences, whether you prefer more seafood or extra vegetables, making it versatile for all tastes.
• Showstopper: With its vibrant colors and complex flavors, seafood paella is a stunning dish that’s perfect for entertaining or celebrating special occasions.

Variations:

• Chicken and Seafood Paella: Combine chicken and seafood for a heartier version of this classic dish.
• Vegetarian Paella: Skip the seafood entirely and use a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, and green beans for a delicious vegetarian paella.
• Add Chorizo: For a more traditional take, you can add slices of Spanish chorizo to the dish, which infuses the rice with a rich, smoky flavor.

This Seafood Paella recipe is the perfect dish to impress your guests, bringing the flavors of Spain straight to your table. With its complex flavors, tender seafood, and vibrant rice, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a delicious, flavorful meal, paella is always a great choice.