The Easiest Spanish Paella Recipe You’ve Ever Made

Pan of Spanish Paella
Photo by Gonzalo Mendiola from Pexels

Who says you can’t enjoy Spain’s bold and beautiful flavors on a regular weeknight? Here’s a paella recipe that’s not only bursting with flavor but also surprisingly easy to whip up. In fact, this dish may become your new favorite. 

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 1 cup paella rice or short-grain rice
  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon saffron threads (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 pound mixed seafood
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet or paella pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers, sautéing until soft.
  2. Incorporate the diced tomatoes and cook for a few more minutes. Stir in the rice.
  3. Add broth, saffron, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes.
  4. Scatter the peas and seafood over the rice. Do not stir. Allow the ingredients to gently sink into the rice. Cover and cook for 15 min.
  5. Remove the pan from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. 
  6. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.