Paella Verdura is a vibrant, vegetable-forward twist on the classic Spanish paella, celebrating fresh, seasonal produce in every colorful bite. This dish is perfect for those seeking a lighter, plant-based alternative to traditional seafood or meat paellas, without sacrificing the rich, comforting flavors that make paella a beloved dish worldwide. With its mix of tender vegetables, saffron-infused rice, and fragrant spices, Paella Verdura is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
The heart of any paella is the rice, and in Paella Verdura, it’s cooked to perfection with a blend of aromatic vegetables like bell peppers, peas, artichokes, zucchini, and green beans. Sautéed in olive oil with onions, garlic, and a touch of smoked paprika, the vegetables release their natural sweetness, infusing the rice with layers of flavor. A pinch of saffron not only gives the dish its iconic golden hue but also adds a subtle floral depth that elevates every bite. Stirring is minimal to encourage the formation of the socarrat, the cherished crispy layer at the bottom of the pan, which adds a delightful texture contrast.
Paella Verdura is highly versatile and can be adapted based on what’s fresh and in season. Cherry tomatoes, asparagus, mushrooms, or even roasted cauliflower can be added for extra flavor and color. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme brighten the dish just before serving, enhancing both aroma and presentation. Lemon wedges are a must, offering a tangy finish that balances the richness of the saffron and olive oil.
This vegetable paella is ideal for sharing with friends and family, served straight from the pan for a casual, communal dining experience. It pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Albariño or Verdejo, which complements the earthy flavors of the vegetables and the subtle spice of saffron.
Paella Verdura proves that vegetarian dishes can be just as flavorful, hearty, and satisfying as their traditional counterparts. Its combination of vibrant vegetables, perfectly cooked rice, and aromatic seasonings makes it a centerpiece-worthy dish that celebrates fresh ingredients and the joy of cooking. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, Paella Verdura is a delicious, colorful, and wholesome choice.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Bomba rice or any short-grain rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 medium bell pepper chopped
- 1 cup green beans cut into pieces
- 1 cup tomato diced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 cups vegetable broth low sodium
- 0.5 teaspoon saffron threads soaked in 2 tablespoons of warm water
- 0.25 cup peas fresh or frozen
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large paella pan over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until onion is translucent.
- Stir in bell pepper and green beans, cook for 5 minutes.
- Add tomato and smoked paprika, cook for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in the rice and cook, stirring, for 1-2 minutes until rice is well coated.
- Add vegetable broth and the saffron with its soaking water, bring to a boil.
- Lower heat and let simmer uncovered, without stirring, for about 20-25 minutes.
- Scatter peas over the top and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
OMG this is SO GOOD! My kids even ate it without complaining! I’ll make it again for sure.
Looks good but I doubt my family will eat it. They don’t like green beans, and saffron is too fancy for us. Anyone tried it with chicken?
I’m so glad to hear that your kids loved it! It’s always a win when they don’t complain about dinner. What sides did you serve with it?
Yum! 👌
This paella was so vibrant and full of flavor! Loved the saffron touch. 5 stars!
Saffron is so expensive! Is it really necessary for the flavor? I’m skeptical.
I’ve never tried making paella before, but it sounds delicious! Do you think I could add chicken?
It turned out a bit mushy for me. Maybe I added too much broth? Not sure if I’ll try again.
Instructions were a bit confusing, but the result wasn’t bad. I’ll give it another shot.
I think if you follow the instructions closely, it’s actually pretty easy. What was confusing for you?
I dont know what saffron is, but I put some curry powder instead. Works for me! 😂
Easy and quick! Perfect for a weeknight dinner. I added some chickpeas too for extra protein!
Eh, not my thing. I prefer meat in my paella. This just felt like a vegetable soup with rice.