Saffron Paella Salad

Saffron Paella Salad Recipe from Spain with Turkey, Shrimp, and Vegetables

Region / culture: Spain | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Saffron Paella Salad is a delicious and colorful dish that combines the flavors of traditional paella with the freshness of a salad. This recipe is perfect for a light and refreshing meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.

History

Paella is a traditional Spanish dish that originated in the Valencia region. It is typically made with rice, saffron, vegetables, and a variety of meats or seafood. This recipe takes the flavors of paella and transforms them into a salad, making it a unique and modern twist on a classic dish.

Ingredients

3 tbsp white wine vinegar
1 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
0.5 tsp ground white pepper
2.5 cups cooked rice (cooked in chicken broth and saffron), cooled to room temperature
1 cup cooked turkey breast cubes
1 cup peeled and deveined cooked shrimp
0.5 cup diced red bell pepper
0.5 cup cooked green peas
0.33 cup chopped onion
0.33 cup sliced ripe olives
lettuce leaves

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine vinegar, oil, garlic, and pepper; mix well.
Add rice, turkey, shrimp, red pepper, peas, onion, and toss lightly.
Serve on lettuce leaves.

Variations

Substitute the turkey and shrimp with chicken or chorizo for a different flavor profile.
Add in additional vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or asparagus for extra color and nutrients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the saffron rice ahead of time and allow it to cool to room temperature before adding it to the salad.

- Use a variety of colorful vegetables to make the salad visually appealing.

- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite proteins or vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Saffron Paella Salad as a main dish for a light lunch or dinner. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the rice according to package instructions to ensure it is fluffy and not mushy.

- Cook the proteins (turkey and shrimp) until they are fully cooked through to avoid any food safety concerns.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of water to cook the saffron rice for added flavor.

- Substitute the olives with capers or sun-dried tomatoes for a different taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the saffron rice and cook the proteins ahead of time to save time when assembling the salad.

- Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Saffron Paella Salad on a large platter with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation. - Garnish the salad with lemon wedges or a sprinkle of paprika for an extra pop of flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Saffron Paella Salad with a crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Spanish Albariño.

- Serve the salad with a side of garlic bread or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- To reheat, place the salad in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 32g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 2g

Fats

- Total Fat: 7g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 18g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 30%

- Calcium: 4%

- Iron: 15%

Alergens

Contains shellfish (shrimp)

Summary

This Saffron Paella Salad is a well-balanced dish that provides a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a nutritious option for a light and flavorful meal.

Summary

Saffron Paella Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of traditional paella with the freshness of a salad. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a light and satisfying meal. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Saffron Paella Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in Spain. Maria was known for her incredible culinary skills, and she had promised to teach me a traditional Spanish dish during my stay.

We spent the morning wandering through the bustling farmers market, picking out the freshest ingredients for our meal. The vibrant colors and intoxicating aromas filled the air, and I felt like I was in food heaven. Maria led me to a stall selling saffron, a spice I had never used before. She explained that saffron was a key ingredient in many Spanish dishes, prized for its rich flavor and golden hue.

As we made our way back to Maria's cozy kitchen, she began to tell me the story behind the recipe for Saffron Paella Salad. She explained that paella was a traditional Spanish dish, typically made with rice, saffron, and a variety of meats and seafood. However, Maria had put her own twist on the classic recipe, turning it into a refreshing salad that was perfect for warm summer days.

Maria had learned to make Saffron Paella Salad from her grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations. She shared with me how her grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, carefully preparing each ingredient and infusing the dish with love and tradition. Maria's eyes sparkled with pride as she spoke about her grandmother's culinary prowess, and I could see the deep connection she felt to her family's heritage.

As we got to work in the kitchen, Maria guided me through each step of the recipe with patience and expertise. We started by toasting the saffron in a hot pan, releasing its fragrant aroma and vibrant color. The saffron infused the air with a warm, earthy scent that made my mouth water in anticipation.

Next, we added the rice to the pan, allowing it to soak up the flavors of the saffron and the other ingredients we had added. Maria explained that the key to a good paella was patience and attention to detail, ensuring that each grain of rice was cooked perfectly and coated in the rich, savory sauce.

As the salad came together, Maria added a colorful array of vegetables and herbs, each one adding its own unique flavor and texture to the dish. The final touch was a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, brightening the flavors and tying everything together in a perfect harmony of tastes and aromas.

As we sat down to enjoy our creation, I couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of the Saffron Paella Salad. The colors of the vegetables shone like jewels against the golden rice, and the fragrant aroma of saffron filled the air. With each bite, I could taste the love and tradition that had been passed down through generations, and I felt grateful to be able to share in this culinary experience with my dear friend Maria.

As I left Spain and returned home, I carried the recipe for Saffron Paella Salad with me, a treasured reminder of my time spent in Maria's kitchen. I have since made the dish many times, each time feeling a connection to the rich history and tradition that Maria had shared with me. And every time I take a bite of the flavorful salad, I am transported back to that warm summer day in Spain, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of a culture that will always hold a special place in my heart.