Homemade Seafood Paella with Shrimp

A traditional Spanish-inspired dish full of vibrant flavors and fresh seafood, perfect for a hearty family meal.

Ingredients

(Serves 4-6)

2 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 large red bell pepper, diced

2 medium tomatoes, grated (or use 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes)

 1 tsp smoked paprika

 1/4 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 2 tbsp warm water

1 cup (200g) paella rice (e.g., Bomba or Arborio)

 3 cups (750ml) fish or chicken stock, warmed

 1/2 lb (250g) shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/2 lb (250g) mussels, cleaned

 1/2 lb (250g) clams, cleaned

 1/2 cup (100g) squid rings

 1/2 cup frozen peas

 Salt and pepper to taste

Lemon wedges for serving

 Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the base:

Heat olive oil in a large paella pan (or a wide, shallow skillet) over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes.

2. Build the flavors:

Stir in the grated tomatoes, smoked paprika, and soaked saffron (including the water). Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens.

3. Add the rice:

Add the paella rice to the pan and stir it into the tomato mixture for 2 minutes to coat it well.

4. Pour the stock:

Gradually add the warmed fish or chicken stock. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Do not stir the rice once the stock is added, as this helps create the traditional crispy base.

5. Cook the seafood:

After 10 minutes of simmering, arrange the shrimp, mussels, clams, and squid on top of the rice. Push them slightly into the mixture. Add the peas. Cover the pan with foil or a lid and cook for another 10-12 minutes, until the seafood is cooked and the mussels and clams have opened.

6. Let it rest:

Turn off the heat and let the paella rest for 5 minutes, uncovered.

7. Serve and enjoy:

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a burst of freshness.

Let me know if you’d like tips for presentation or pairing suggestions to include in the blog post! 😍🌸