Discover the classic Valencian Paella with this easy-to-follow recipe! This traditional Spanish dish combines saffron-infused rice with a delicious mix of seafood, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for any occasion, learn how to create this flavorful and iconic dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

- 2 tbsp olive oil

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 1 bell pepper, chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 cup green beans, chopped

- 1 cup tomatoes, diced

- 1 ½ cups paella rice (Bomba or Arborio)

- 1 tsp smoked paprika

- 1/2 tsp saffron threads

- 4 cups chicken broth

- 1 cup white wine (optional)

- 1 cup frozen peas

- 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined

- 1 cup mussels or clams

- 1 cup chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into pieces

- Lemon wedges, for garnish

- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Saffron: Soak the saffron threads in a small amount of warm water to release their color and flavor.

Cook the Chicken: In a large paella pan or wide skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables: In the same pan, add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add green beans and tomatoes, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Add Rice and Spices: Stir in the paella rice, smoked paprika, and saffron with its soaking water. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly and absorb the flavors.

Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. 

Simmer: Return the chicken pieces to the pan and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is nearly tender.

Add Seafood: Gently fold in the shrimp, mussels, and peas. Continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and the mussels have opened. 

Rest and Serve: Remove from heat and let the paella sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Garnish with lemon wedges and chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Valencian Paella, a true taste of Spain!

Nutritional Value

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)

  - Calories: 240

  - Fat: 28g (Monounsaturated Fat: 20g)

Benefits: Olive oil is rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, supporting heart health and reducing inflammation.

Onion (1, finely chopped)

  - Calories: 45

  - Carbohydrates: 11g

  - Fiber: 1g

Benefits: Onions are high in antioxidants and vitamins, supporting heart health and boosting the immune system.

Bell Pepper (1, chopped)

  - Calories: 30

  - Carbohydrates: 7g

  - Fiber: 2g

Benefits: Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and carotenoids. They support immune function and skin health.

Garlic (2 cloves, minced)

  - Calories: 10

Benefits: Garlic has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, promoting heart health and boosting the immune system.

Green Beans (1 cup, chopped)

  - Calories: 35

  - Carbohydrates: 7g

  - Fiber: 3g

Benefits: Green beans are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, and fiber, which support digestive health and overall well-being.

Tomatoes (1 cup, diced)

  - Calories: 30

  - Carbohydrates: 7g

  - Fiber: 2g

Benefits: Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene, which support heart health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers.

Paella Rice (1 ½ cups, Bomba or Arborio)

  - Calories: 600 (for 1 ½ cups uncooked)

  - Carbohydrates: 135g

  - Protein: 12g

Benefits: Paella rice provides energy through carbohydrates and protein. It’s essential for creating the characteristic texture of paella.

Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon)

  - Calories: 6

Benefits: Adds flavor and contains antioxidants like capsaicin, which supports metabolic health and reduces inflammation.

Saffron Threads (½ teaspoon)

  - Calories: 6

Benefits: Saffron is rich in antioxidants and has mood-enhancing properties. It adds a unique flavor and color to the dish.

Chicken Broth (4 cups)

  - Calories: 60 (per cup, depends on the brand and preparation)

Benefits: Provides flavor and some nutrients. Homemade broth can be rich in minerals and amino acids.

White Wine (1 cup, optional)

  - Calories: 125

Benefits: Adds flavor and can enhance the taste of the dish. The alcohol mostly evaporates during cooking.

Frozen Peas (1 cup)

  - Calories: 60

  - Carbohydrates: 11g

  - Fiber: 4g

  - Protein: 4g

Benefits: Peas are high in vitamins A, C, K, and B vitamins, as well as protein and fiber, supporting overall health.

Shrimp (1 cup, peeled and deveined)

  - Calories: 120

  - Protein: 24g

  - Fat: 2g

Benefits: Shrimp are low in fat and high in protein. They provide essential nutrients such as iodine and vitamin B12.

Mussels or Clams (1 cup)

  - Calories: 150 (for mussels)

  - Protein: 20g

  - Fat: 2g

Benefits: Both are rich in protein, vitamins (especially B12), and minerals like iron and zinc.

Chicken Thighs (1 cup, boneless and skinless, cut into pieces)

  - Calories: 200

  - Protein: 25g

  - Fat: 10g

Benefits: Chicken thighs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients, including B vitamins and minerals.

Lemon Wedges (for garnish)

  - Calories: 5 (per wedge)

Benefits: Adds fresh flavor and vitamin C with minimal calories.

Fresh Parsley (for garnish)

  - Calories: 5 (per tablespoon)

Benefits: Parsley is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and provides antioxidants with minimal calories.

Salt and Pepper (to taste)

  - Calories: 0

Benefits: Salt enhances flavor but should be used in moderation due to sodium content. Pepper adds flavor and has antioxidant properties.

This paella recipe combines a variety of ingredients that contribute to a balanced and flavorful dish. It offers protein from seafood and chicken, healthy fats from olive oil, and a range of vitamins and minerals from vegetables and spices. The combination of rice and broth provides energy and a satisfying texture.