The aroma wafting from the kitchen is irresistible—could it be the vibrant spices of Spain calling your name? My Easy Seafood Paella is not just a meal; it’s a delightful escape to sun-soaked coastlines, all prepared in just 30 minutes! This recipe effortlessly combines the rich flavors of seafood with the unique essence of Spanish cuisine, and it’s perfect for those busy midweek dinners when you want something special yet quick and easy. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastically nutritious option for you and your loved ones. Ready to dive into a plate that captures the spirit of the ocean? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Seafood Paella a Must-Try?

Deliciously Unique: This Easy Seafood Paella features a medley of flavors that transports you straight to the Mediterranean coast.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, so you don’t need to sacrifice quality for convenience.
Nutrient-Packed: High in protein and flavor, each serving is a wholesome option that satisfies your cravings without the guilt.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family or guests with a dish that’s visually stunning and bursting with rich, vibrant colors.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize it with your favorite seafood, or check out delightful combinations like our Crab Bomb Nacho or Bay Biscuit Seafood for more inspiration!

Seafood Paella Ingredients

• Everything you need for this vibrant dish awaits!

For the Paella

Paella Rice (or Arborio Rice) – The base of the paella providing structure; substitute with short-grain bomba or sushi rice for similar texture.
Chicken Stock – Adds depth of flavor; for a richer taste, fish stock can be used.
Onion – Provides an aromatic base flavor; shallots or leeks are great alternatives.
Garlic – Enhances overall flavor; fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Cherry Tomatoes – Adds sweetness and acidity; diced canned tomatoes can substitute if out of season.
Vegetable Oil (or Olive Oil) – Essential for sautéing; olive oil is recommended for taste, but any neutral oil will do.
Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste based on broth saltiness.
Ground Black Pepper – Adds heat; freshly cracked is best for flavor.
Sweet Paprika – Contributes color and mild flavor; smoked paprika can lend a more robust taste.
Ground Turmeric – For color and subtle flavor; saffron can also be used, but turmeric is more budget-friendly.
Mixed Frozen Seafood (mussels, calamari rings, scallops) – The core protein component of your paella; you can swap with shrimp or clams, or use fresh seafood as well.
Mussels (in shells) – Adds an impressive touch and extra flavor; omit if unavailable.
Chopped Fresh Parsley – For garnish and freshness; swap with cilantro or simply omit if preferred.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Seafood Paella

Step 1: Prepare the Base
Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic, setting them aside. In a large skillet or paella pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable or olive oil over low heat. Add the chopped onion with a pinch of salt, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onion turns golden and translucent, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients
Once the onions are ready, stir in the minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook these together for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices, creating a vibrant base for your Easy Seafood Paella. The colors will brighten, and the mixture will smell fragrant and inviting.

Step 3: Incorporate Spices and Rice
Next, add the sweet paprika, ground turmeric, paella rice, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to the skillet. Stir the mixture thoroughly to coat the rice grains evenly with the spices, allowing them to toast slightly and absorb the wonderful flavors for about 1 minute. This step is crucial for enhancing the dish’s depth of flavor.

Step 4: Add Stock and Simmer
Pour in 4 cups of chicken stock and turn the heat up to medium-high. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer without stirring for about 15 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated and the rice appears tender and slightly firm yet cooked through.

Step 5: Introduce the Seafood
Once the rice has mostly absorbed the liquid, add the mixed frozen seafood directly on top, along with any mussels in their shells for added flair. Cover the pan once again and cook for an additional 7 minutes on low heat until the seafood is plump and fully cooked, making sure the mussels open up beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
After the seafood is cooked through, remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This resting time allows flavors to meld beautifully. Finally, garnish your Easy Seafood Paella with freshly chopped parsley before serving, adding a burst of color and fresh flavor to your dish.

What to Serve with Easy Seafood Paella

Turn your vibrant paella into an unforgettable feast by pairing it with delightful sides that enhance its Mediterranean charm!

Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture and pairs beautifully with the saucy depth of paella, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the seafood, balancing your meal beautifully.
Saffron Rice: Keep the Spanish theme alive with saffron-infused rice; its floral notes will harmonize deliciously with your seafood dish and create an elegant touch on the table.
Chickpea Fritters: Crispy, savory fritters add a wonderful crunch and earthy flavor that complements the delicate seafood, making for a satisfying contrast.
Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Golden brown and seasoned to perfection, these potatoes provide a hearty option that pairs wonderfully with the paella’s flavors and completes the dining experience.
White Sangria: A refreshing drink made with citrus fruits and a hint of sweetness, white sangria is a delightful match for the brininess of the seafood, heightening the overall dining experience.
Flan for Dessert: End with a light and creamy flan, whose subtle sweetness and smooth texture will round out your meal on a perfect note, leaving everyone satisfied.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender, seasoned asparagus not only adds a splash of green and a crunchy snap but complements the flavors of the seafood without overwhelming the palate.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Seafood Paella preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can chop the onion and garlic and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can pre-measure and combine your spices (paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper) to make cooking a breeze. If you want to go even further, consider cooking the paella rice with stock before combining it with the seafood, allowing you to refrigerate the cooked rice mixture for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just add the thawed seafood and heat everything together in the pan for delicious, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Seafood Paella

Perfect Rice Texture: Avoid stirring the rice while it simmers; this helps keep the grains separate and gives you that perfect paella texture.
Use Ice-Free Seafood: Ensure no ice particles remain on frozen seafood before adding it to the pan to prevent excess liquid from making your paella soggy.
Customize Flavors: Feel free to use alternative seafood like shrimp or clams depending on what you have available, making this a versatile seafood paella.
Enhance Depth: For even more flavor, consider using fish stock instead of chicken stock. It adds a richer essence to the dish.
Rest Before Serving: Let the paella sit covered for 5 minutes after cooking; this resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Store and Freeze Seafood Paella

Fridge: Store cooked seafood paella in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure to let it cool down before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy this vibrant dish later, freeze individual portions of seafood paella in airtight containers for up to 3 months. This allows for convenient meal planning without sacrificing flavor.

Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. Enjoy the same delightful experience as when it was freshly made!

Seafood Paella Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine and make this Easy Seafood Paella your own with these delightful twists!

Dairy-Free: Use vegetable or fish stock instead of chicken stock for a lighter broth without compromising flavor.
Low-Carb: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice, making this dish both lighter and keto-friendly. The texture is slightly different, but the flavors will still shine.
Extra Veggies: Add peas, green beans, or bell peppers for more color and nutrition. These additions bring a pop of freshness and crunch to each bite.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika to enhance the dish’s depth and richness. You’ll fall in love with this slight twist!
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist. This adds an exciting heat that can complement the seafood beautifully.
Herb Infusion: Customize your garnish by swapping parsley with fresh cilantro or basil. This little change can brighten the entire flavor profile.
Seafood Variety: Replace mixed frozen seafood with fresh shrimp or clams for a different taste and texture. Fresh ingredients can elevate your paella experience.
Meat Lovers: Incorporate cooked chorizo or chicken to this seafood medley for those who crave an extra protein punch. The savory flavors will enrich the dish wonderfully.

These variations not only allow you to tailor the Seafood Paella to your taste but also give you options for every diet and preference. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!

Easy Seafood Paella Recipe FAQs

What type of rice is best for paella?
The best rice for paella is specifically paella rice or Arborio rice, as they are short-grain varieties that absorb liquid well, leading to a desired texture. If you can’t find these, bomba or sushi rice are suitable substitutes that will yield similar results.

How should I store leftover seafood paella?
Store your cooked seafood paella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it; this helps maintain flavor and freshness. When you’re ready to eat it again, simply reheat it gently on the stove.

Can I freeze seafood paella?
Absolutely! To freeze seafood paella, scoop individual portions into airtight containers and pop them into the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw your desired portion overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking.

How do I prevent my paella from getting soggy?
To keep your paella from becoming soggy, ensure that no ice particles remain on frozen seafood when you add it to the pan. It’s crucial to avoid stirring the rice while it cooks, so the grains remain separate and retain that perfect texture. Letting it set for a few minutes after cooking also helps firm it up.

Can I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If you’re concerned about seafood allergies, you can customize the recipe by using poultry, like chicken or turkey, or a vegetable medley for a hearty vegetarian option. Additionally, make sure that any stock you use is gluten-free if that’s a dietary consideration.

How long does it take to cook seafood paella?
This Easy Seafood Paella comes together in about 30 minutes! After preparing your ingredients, the active cooking time takes around 22 minutes—15 minutes for the rice and 7 minutes for the seafood. Enjoy a delicious, homemade dish without hours of prep!