Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 4-6
What happens when traditional Spanish Paella meets the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean? You get Mediterranean Fusion Paella—a colorful, flavor-packed dish that blends classic saffron rice with Mediterranean staples like olives, feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs. This twist on the beloved dish brings together seafood, vegetables, and bold spices for an unforgettable one-pan meal! 🌿🍋
Ingredients
🔥 For the Paella Base:
☑ 2 cups short-grain rice (like Bomba or Arborio) 🍚
☑ 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (infused with saffron) 🥣
☑ 1 onion, finely chopped 🧅
☑ 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
☑ 1 bell pepper, diced 🌶️
☑ 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 🍅
☑ 1 cup mixed olives (green & black), sliced 🫒
☑ ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped 🍅
☑ 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen) 🌿
☑ 1 teaspoon🥄 smoked paprika 🌶️
☑ A pinch of saffron threads soaked in warm broth 🌾
☑ Salt & pepper to taste 🧂
🔥 For the Protein (Choose Your Combo):
☑ ½ lb shrimp, peeled & deveined 🍤
☑ ½ lb chicken thighs, diced 🍗
☑ Optional: mussels, clams, or tofu for a plant-based option 🌱
🔥 For Garnish:
☑ Crumbled feta cheese 🧀
☑ Fresh parsley or basil 🌿
☑ Lemon wedges for serving 🍋
👨🍳 Cooking Steps
🥘 Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
1️⃣ Heat olive oil in a large paella pan or skillet.
2️⃣ Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking until soft and fragrant.
🥘 Step 2: Build the Base
1️⃣ Stir in the rice, coating it with the flavorful oils.
2️⃣ Add smoked paprika, saffron-infused broth, cherry tomatoes, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and peas.
3️⃣ Season with salt & pepper to taste.
🥘 Step 3: Add the Protein
1️⃣ Nestle the shrimp, chicken, or seafood into the rice without stirring.
2️⃣ Simmer uncovered on medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, until the rice absorbs the liquid and forms a crispy bottom crust (socarrat).
🥘 Step 4: Garnish & Serve
1️⃣ Remove from heat, cover with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes.
2️⃣ Top with crumbled feta, fresh herbs, and lemon wedges.
3️⃣ Serve warm, straight from the pan, with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Bursting with bold Mediterranean flavors, this Fusion Paella is a colorful celebration of cultures in one pan! Who’s ready to dig into this vibrant masterpiece? 🥘🍋
