Paella Salad III

Paella Salad III Recipe - Authentic Spanish Rice Dish

Region / culture: Spain | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Paella Salad III is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the flavors of a traditional paella with a light and creamy dressing. This salad is perfect for a summer picnic or a light lunch.

History

Paella Salad III is a modern twist on the classic Spanish dish, paella. Paella is a traditional Spanish rice dish that is typically made with a variety of seafood, meats, and vegetables. This salad takes the flavors of paella and transforms them into a light and refreshing salad that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 package (6 oz or 170 g) of frozen cooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp
3 cups of cool cooked yellow rice*
1 can (8 oz or 227 g) of minced clams, drained
1.5 cups of diced cooked chicken
1.5 cups of sliced celery
1.5 cups of cooked green peas
0.5 cup of diced green bell pepper
0.33 cup of sliced green onions
1 cup of mayonnaise
2 tbsp of dry white wine
3 tbsp of capers (optional)
0.5 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of garlic powder
0.25 tsp of ground black pepper
2 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges

How to prepare

Thaw and slice the shrimp in half lengthwise. Combine it with rice, clams, chicken, celery, green peas, green pepper, and onions.
Blend mayonnaise, wine, capers, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Pour the mixture over the shrimp mixture and toss it lightly. Chill it. Use tomatoes for garnish or toss them with the salad before chilling.

Variations

Add diced chorizo or smoked sausage for a smoky flavor.
Substitute cooked quinoa for the rice for a gluten-free option.
Add roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the rice according to package instructions and let it cool completely before adding it to the salad.

- Thaw the shrimp properly before slicing them in half lengthwise.

- Drain the minced clams well before adding them to the salad to prevent excess liquid.

- Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Paella Salad III can be served as a main dish or as a side dish. It pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Thaw and slice the shrimp properly before adding them to the salad.

- Cook the rice according to package instructions and let it cool completely before adding it to the salad.

- Drain the minced clams well to prevent excess liquid in the salad.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use cooked turkey or ham instead of chicken.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.

- Use frozen mixed vegetables instead of green peas for added color and flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Paella Salad III can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to chill it for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Paella Salad III in a large serving bowl or on individual plates. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of citrus flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Paella Salad III pairs well with a variety of beverages, including white wine, light beer, or sparkling water. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Paella Salad III in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 32g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 4g

Fats

- Total Fat: 18g

- Saturated Fat: 3g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 20g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 20%

- Calcium: 6%

- Iron: 15%

Alergens

Contains shellfish (shrimp, clams)

- Contains eggs (mayonnaise)

Summary

Paella Salad III is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for a meal.

Summary

Paella Salad III is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the flavors of a traditional paella with a light and creamy dressing. This salad is perfect for a summer picnic or a light lunch, and can be customized with your favorite ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Paella Salad III. It was a warm summer day, the sun was shining brightly, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers. I had been invited to a potluck picnic by a dear friend of mine, and I wanted to bring something special to share with everyone.

As I was paging through my collection of recipes, I stumbled upon a worn and tattered piece of paper that I had tucked away many years ago. It was a recipe for Paella Salad III that I had received from a dear friend who had spent some time in Spain. I remembered her telling me how much she loved this dish and how it reminded her of the warm and vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean.

I decided that this would be the perfect dish to bring to the picnic, so I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in my kitchen. The recipe called for a colorful array of vegetables, including red and yellow bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and green peas. I also needed to cook some chicken and shrimp to add to the salad, along with a generous helping of saffron-infused rice.

As I chopped, sautéed, and stirred, the kitchen filled with the rich and savory aromas of the ingredients coming together. I could almost imagine myself in a bustling market in Spain, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a vibrant culture.

Once the salad was complete, I transferred it to a large serving bowl and garnished it with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. The colors of the dish were stunning – bright reds, yellows, and greens that seemed to dance together in harmony.

When I arrived at the picnic, my friends immediately gathered around the table to sample the dish. As they took their first bites, their eyes widened with delight and their taste buds came alive with the bold and complex flavors of the paella salad. I could see the joy on their faces as they savored each mouthful, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had brought them a taste of Spain right here in our own backyard.

From that day on, Paella Salad III became a staple in my recipe collection. I would often make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and special occasions, and it never failed to impress my guests. Each time I prepared the dish, I felt a connection to my friend who had shared the recipe with me, and to the vibrant culture that had inspired it.

Over the years, I have collected many recipes from various places and people, each one holding a special memory or story behind it. But Paella Salad III will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the warm summer day when I first discovered its delicious flavors and shared it with my friends.

As I sit here now, surrounded by the familiar scents and sounds of my kitchen, I can't help but smile as I think back on that day. The sun was shining, the air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, and I had just created a dish that would become a beloved favorite for years to come.

I am grateful for the memories that this recipe has brought me, and for the joy it has brought to those who have tasted it. And as I continue to share it with others, I know that the legacy of Paella Salad III will live on, bringing a taste of Spain and a touch of warmth to all who enjoy it.