Quick Shrimp Paella with Sausage and Veggies
Quick Shrimp Paella with Sausage and Veggies Recipe from Spain
Introduction
Shrimp paella is a classic Spanish dish that is known for its flavorful combination of shrimp, sausage, and vegetables. This quick and easy version of the traditional recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
History
Paella originated in Valencia, Spain and was traditionally made with rice, vegetables, and meat such as chicken, rabbit, and snails. Over time, different variations of paella have been created, including seafood paella which features shrimp, mussels, and other seafood.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Heat oil in a skillet.
- Add garlic and shrimp, sauté for 3 minutes until just cooked.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the shrimp to a bowl.
- Cover the bowl to keep the shrimp warm.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion and sausage for 3 minutes.
- Add the rice mix (without the seasoning packet) and cook the rice for 3 minutes.
- Add 2 cups of water, tomatoes, peas, and the seasoning packet.
- Simmer, covered, for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
- Add the shrimp and artichoke, and heat through.
Variations
- Substitute chicken or chorizo sausage for the smoked spicy sausage.
- Add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Use different seafood options such as mussels, clams, or squid.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to use a skillet with a tight-fitting lid to ensure that the rice cooks evenly.
- Be sure to cook the shrimp just until they are pink and opaque to prevent them from becoming tough and rubbery.
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein options.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp paella with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for added flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Sauté the shrimp and sausage separately to ensure that they are cooked evenly.
- Simmer the rice mixture covered to allow the flavors to meld together.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use chicken broth instead of water for added flavor.
- Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the shrimp and sausage ahead of time and store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Cook the rice mixture up to 2 days in advance and reheat before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the shrimp paella in individual bowls or on a large platter for a family-style meal. - Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon zest for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair the shrimp paella with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Albariño.
- Serve with a side of Spanish olives or roasted red peppers for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
400
Carbohydrates
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
Fats
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
Proteins
- Protein: 25g
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin A: 15%
- Vitamin C: 20%
- Calcium: 10%
- Iron: 15%
Alergens
Contains shellfish and gluten
Summary
This shrimp paella recipe is a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a flavorful and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a main course.
Summary
This quick shrimp paella with sausage and veggies is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a flavorful combination of ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Quick Shrimp Paella with Sausage and Veggies. It was a warm summer day, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on the vibrant photograph of a steaming plate of paella, filled with succulent shrimp, savory sausage, and colorful veggies. I had never made paella before, but something about the recipe called out to me, beckoning me to give it a try.
I decided to make the dish for dinner that night, gathering all the necessary ingredients from my pantry and fridge. As I chopped the onions, bell peppers, and garlic, the fragrant aroma wafted through the kitchen, filling the air with a tantalizing scent. I could already tell that this dish was going to be something special.
Next, I heated some olive oil in a large skillet and added the sliced sausage, allowing it to brown and release its flavorful juices. The sizzling sound of the sausage cooking was music to my ears, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.
Once the sausage was cooked through, I added the chopped veggies to the skillet, stirring them around until they were slightly softened. The colors of the peppers and onions mingled together, creating a beautiful rainbow of hues that danced before my eyes.
I then added the rice to the skillet, toasting it slightly in the oil and sausage drippings. The rice began to take on a golden hue, absorbing all the delicious flavors that had been developed in the pan. I could hardly contain my excitement as I stirred the mixture, watching as it transformed into a fragrant base for the paella.
Next, I poured in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, allowing them to simmer and meld together with the rice and veggies. The aroma that wafted up from the skillet was intoxicating, filling the kitchen with a tantalizing scent that made my mouth water in anticipation.
As the broth began to bubble and the rice started to cook, I added the shrimp to the skillet, nestling them into the mixture so that they could cook through and absorb all of the savory flavors of the dish. The shrimp turned a beautiful pink color as they simmered in the paella, their delicate flesh becoming tender and succulent.
Finally, I sprinkled some fresh parsley over the top of the paella, adding a pop of color and freshness to the dish. I couldn't wait any longer to dig in, so I grabbed a spoon and served myself a generous portion of the steaming paella, savoring the first bite with eager anticipation.
The flavors that exploded in my mouth were nothing short of incredible. The savory sausage, sweet shrimp, and tender veggies all worked together in perfect harmony, creating a symphony of taste that danced across my taste buds. Each bite was a delight, and I found myself going back for seconds and then thirds, unable to resist the irresistible allure of the dish.
As I sat at the table, savoring each mouthful of the Quick Shrimp Paella with Sausage and Veggies, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. I had taken a chance on a new recipe, stepping out of my comfort zone to create something truly special and delicious. And as I savored the last bite of the paella, I knew that this recipe would become a treasured favorite in my repertoire, a dish that I would make again and again for years to come.
Categories
| Artichoke Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Pea Recipes | Rice Recipes | Sausage Recipes | Shrimp Recipes | Spanish Recipes | Tomato Recipes |