**Seafood Paella Dinner Party**
**Introduction**
Dive into the flavorful world of Spanish cuisine with our delectable Seafood Paella! This luscious, vibrant dish is a symphony of rich flavors and textures that will turn a simple dinner party into a memorable soirée.
**Why Make This Recipe**
Seafood Paella is a fantastic dinner party option because it serves as a one-pot dish, allowing you to enjoy the feast with your guests without having to cook multiple courses. High on taste and visual appeal, it holds an aura of a specialty dish without requiring professional skills!
**How to Make Seafood Paella**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups paella or Arborio rice
– 1/2 tsp saffron threads
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 4 cups chicken or seafood broth
– 1 cup white wine
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 12 mussels, cleaned and debearded
– 1 cup peas, fresh or frozen
– 1 lb squid rings
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
**Directions:**
1. Prepare the base by heating olive oil over medium heat in a large paella pan or deep skillet. Sauté the onions, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
2. Stir in the rice, saffron, and smoked paprika, making sure the rice is well-coated.
3. Pour in the broth and white wine, bring to a simmer, and let cook for about 10 minutes for the flavors to meld.
4. Arrange the shrimp, mussels, and squid rings on top of the rice. Sprinkle the peas over the top. Cover and reduce the heat to low. Cook for another 20-25 minutes until the rice is al dente and the seafood is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for that fresh zing.
**How to Serve Seafood Paella**
Serve this luxurious Seafood Paella hot from the pan with fresh lemon wedges on the side. Encourage guests to squeeze the lemon over the paella before digging in for a juicy, zesty bite that complements the seafood beautifully!
**How to Store Seafood Paella**
Cool any leftover paella and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Warm it up on a stovetop over low heat when ready to serve again.
**Tips to Make Seafood Paella**
– Soak the saffron threads in a little hot water to release their flavor prior to adding to the dish.
– Adding the seafood in the end preserves their texture and prevents them from getting overcooked.
**Variation**
For a more robust flavor profile, consider adding diced chorizo in the initial sautéing process.
**FAQs**
– Can I use other types of seafood?
Yes, you can replace or add in other types like clams, scallops or lobster tails.
– Can I use long-grain rice instead of paella or Arborio rice?
Yes, long-grain rice will do if you do not have paella or Arborio rice available. However, the classic varieties absorb the flavors better delivering a more authentic taste.
– Can I use red or white bell peppers instead of yellow?
Yes, bell peppers are mostly used for their color. You can use any color you have at hand.
Time to gather your friends and family for an unforgettable dinner party featuring this sensational Seafood Paella. Buen provecho!