Spanish Seafood Paella with Squid and Mussels recipe 🥘🌊
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 2 cups Spanish short-grain rice (Bomba or Calasparra)
- 4 cups fish or seafood stock
- 1 lb fresh squid, cleaned and cut into rings
- 1 lb fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, grated or finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (pimentón)
- 1 pinch saffron threads (optional, but traditional)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Saffron Infusion:
- Soak the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water. Set aside.
2. Cook the Sofrito:
- Heat olive oil in a large paella pan or wide skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté onion and red bell pepper until softened (5-7 minutes).
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the grated tomato and cook until thickened (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the Rice and Spices:
- Stir in smoked paprika and saffron infusion.
- Add rice and toast for 1-2 minutes, coating it evenly with the sofrito.
4. Add the Stock:
- Pour in the fish or seafood stock. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Do not stir the rice again.
5. Add the Seafood:
- Arrange squid rings and mussels evenly over the rice. Press mussels slightly into the rice.
- Scatter frozen peas over the top.
6. Cook the Paella:
- Simmer gently, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes, or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed. Rotate the pan occasionally for even cooking.
- If rice is undercooked but liquid is absorbed, add a splash of stock or water and continue cooking.
7. Rest and Serve:
- Remove from heat and cover with a clean kitchen towel or foil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Macros (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~500-550 kcal
- Protein: 30-35g (from squid and mussels)
- Carbs: ~60-65g (from rice and veggies)
- Fats: ~12-15g (healthy fats from olive oil)
Why This Dish is Great
- High-Protein: Squid and mussels are excellent sources of lean protein.
- Rich in Nutrients: Packed with vitamins and minerals from seafood and vegetables.
- Authentic Flavor: A taste of Spain with smoky paprika and saffron.
- Customizable: Add shrimp, clams, or chorizo for extra flavor.
Pro Tips
- Socarrat: For the crispy bottom layer, increase heat slightly at the end of cooking.
- Pan Choice: Use a wide, shallow pan for even cooking.
- Meal Prep: Double the recipe and store leftovers for quick meals.
Enjoy this vibrant, protein-packed Spanish Seafood Paella with a glass of white wine or sangria! 🇪🇸🍷