Paella Recipe | Easy Spanish Paella

PUBLISHED February 20, 2026· MODIFIED February 17, 2026 · by the author listed in the recipe card 1335 words. · About 7 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

If you’re a fan of vibrant flavors, vibrant colors, and a culinary journey to Spain, you’re in for a treat! Learn how to make the authentic Spanish dish, Paella. With saffron-infused rice, succulent seafood, and a melody of spices, this Paella recipe promises to transport you to the sun-kissed shores of Spain.

Why You’ll Love This Flavorful Dish

Authentic Taste. Experience the authentic flavors of Spain right in your own kitchen.
Vibrant Colors. The colorful ingredients make this dish a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Versatile. Customize it with your favorite seafood, meats, and vegetables.
Impressive Presentation. Perfect for entertaining guests or special occasions, it makes a stunning centerpiece.

With this authentic Paella recipe, you’ll transport your palate to Spain without leaving your kitchen. Enjoy the rich flavors, vibrant colors, and festive atmosphere of this beloved dish.

What Exactly Is Paella?

Originating from the Valencia region of Spain, Paella is a flavorful rice dish traditionally cooked in a wide, shallow pan. The name “Paella” refers to both the pan and the dish itself.

Paella is known for its rich saffron-infused rice, vibrant colors, and variety of ingredients, including seafood, meats, and vegetables. It’s a symbol of Spanish cuisine and is enjoyed by people all over the world.

Is Paella A Mexican Or Spanish Dish?

Paella is a Spanish dish, originating from the Valencia region of Spain. It’s a traditional rice dish cooked in a wide, shallow pan and is often associated with Spanish cuisine and culture.

While there are variations of rice dishes in other cultures, such as Mexico’s arroz con pollo, Paella is distinctly Spanish and has become a symbol of Spanish culinary tradition.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Arborio Rice– Traditionally used for Paella, Arborio rice absorbs flavors beautifully and has a creamy texture.
Saffron Threads– This precious spice adds a distinctive flavor and vibrant yellow color to the dish.
Seafood– Keep it simple with shrimp or use an assortment of seafood that cooks in a similar amount of time.
Chorizo– The smoky and spicy flavor of chorizo adds depth to the dish.
Bell Peppers– Red and green bell peppers provide sweetness and color.
Onion and Garlic– These aromatic ingredients form the flavorful base of the dish.
Tomatoes– Fresh tomatoes add acidity and richness to the Paella.
Chicken Broth– Use chicken broth to cook the rice and infuse it with savory flavor.
Olive Oil– Use high-quality olive oil for sautéing the ingredients and adding richness to the dish.
Spanish Paprika– Also known as pimentón, Spanish paprika adds a smoky flavor and vibrant color to the dish.

How To Make Paella

Prepare the Ingredients. Rinse the rice, soak the saffron threads in warm water, and clean the seafood.
Sauté Aromatics. In a large Paella pan, sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers for 3-5 minutes until softened.
Add Chorizo. Add sliced chorizo to the pan and cook for 5 minutes until it releases its oils and becomes slightly crispy.
Cook Rice. Stir in the Arborio rice and Spanish paprika, coating the grains evenly. Add the saffron-infused water and chicken broth, then bring to a simmer.
Add Seafood. Cover the pan and cook the rice for 20 minutes until the rice is tender. Arrange the seafood on top of the rice, pressing it into the mixture slightly. Cover and simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until the shrimp is cooked through.
Serve and Enjoy. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy with family and friends!

Tips And Tricks

Making paella can be a delightful culinary adventure, and here are some tips and tricks to ensure it turns out delicious every time:

Use the Right Rice. Choose a short-grain Spanish rice such as Bomba or Calasparra rice for authentic paella. These varieties are known for their ability to absorb liquid without becoming mushy, resulting in a perfectly textured dish.
Preheat Your Pan. Preheat your paella pan or a wide, shallow skillet before adding any ingredients. This helps to create a consistent cooking temperature and encourages the formation of the coveted socarrat, the caramelized crust on the bottom of the pan.
Layer Flavors. Layer your ingredients in the pan, starting with the proteins like chicken, chorizo, or seafood, followed by the vegetables and rice. This allows each component to cook evenly and impart its flavors to the dish.

Variations

Paella is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences and ingredient availability. Here are some delicious variations to try:

Vegetarian- Create a vegetarian version of paella by omitting the meat and adding extra vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, artichokes, asparagus, and mushrooms. You can also incorporate plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh for added texture and protein.
Mixed- Combine a variety of proteins such as chicken, chorizo, and seafood to create a “Paella Mixta.” This version offers a medley of flavors and textures that appeal to a wide range of tastes.
Valencian- Stay true to tradition with a Valencian-style paella, featuring rabbit, chicken, and snails as the main proteins. This rustic version showcases the classic ingredients of the original recipe.

What To Eat With Paella

Paella is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of accompaniments to create a balanced and satisfying meal. Here are some delicious options to enjoy with it:

Salad– A fresh salad with crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and olives dressed in a simple vinaigrette is a refreshing complement to the rich flavors of Paella.
Bread– Crusty bread, such as Spanish baguette or ciabatta, is perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices of the Paella. Serve with a side of aioli or garlic butter for extra indulgence.
Roasted Vegetables– Roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant make a flavorful and colorful side dish that complements the savory flavors of Paella.

How Long Does It Last?

Cooked Paella can typically last for up to 3 to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

When reheating leftover Paella, make sure to heat it thoroughly until it’s steaming hot all the way through.

Can You Freeze It?

You can freeze Paella for up to 2 to 3 months without significant loss of quality. Beyond this time frame, the Paella may still be safe to eat, but its flavor and texture may deteriorate over time.

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