Paella with shrimp and peas

Shrimp and Pea Paella – A Delicacy Full of Flavor and Color

Welcome back to the kitchen! Today, I present to you a vibrant and flavorful recipe that will transport you to sunny lands filled with unmistakable aromas. This is a shrimp and pea paella, a dish that, although it has deep roots, can be reinterpreted by each of us according to our preferences. This recipe is perfect for a special dinner or to impress friends at a festive meal.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 green garlic, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced thin
- 250 g long-grain rice (ideally Basmati or Arborio)
- 250 g peeled, fresh or thawed shrimp
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon saffron (for a distinctive flavor)
- 1 teaspoon chili (for a bit of heat, adjust to taste)
- 800 ml pea broth (you can use vegetable broth or water if unavailable)
- 400 g frozen peas (or fresh if available)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped (for an extra touch of freshness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced, for serving

The story behind the recipe:
Paella is an emblematic dish celebrated for its diversity, originating from sunny regions where vegetables and seafood are prominent. This recipe has evolved over time, with each variation bringing a unique story. By adding shrimp and peas, we bring a modern and cheerful touch to a classic recipe, perfect for enjoying on special occasions or simply to change up your culinary routine.

Preparing the Paella:

1. Boil the peas: Start by placing the frozen peas in a pot with 800 ml of salted water. Let it boil for about 5 minutes. This step will not only help cook the peas but will also create a delicious base broth for the risotto.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet or paella pan, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the green onion and green garlic, cooking until they become soft and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes. Add the sliced red bell pepper and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Add the rice: Rinse the rice in several waters to remove the starch, then add it to the skillet. Stir well to combine the rice with the vegetables and let it fry for 2-3 minutes. This step will help the rice absorb the flavors of the vegetables.

4. Season: Sprinkle the sweet paprika, saffron, and chili, stirring vigorously to distribute the spices evenly. Add 250 ml of the water in which the peas boiled, let it boil for a minute, then add the rest of the pea broth. Let everything boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice becomes soft and absorbs most of the liquid, about 15 minutes.

5. Add the shrimp: About 5 minutes before the rice is finished cooking, add the peeled shrimp and drained peas. Stir well, cover the skillet, and let it simmer on low heat until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the rice is fully cooked. If necessary, add a little water to prevent sticking.

6. Finish: When everything is ready, add the chopped parsley, season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently stir to combine the flavors.

7. Serve: For an extra touch of freshness, serve the paella with lemon slices on the side. The lemon juice will add a refreshing note to the dish.

Practical Tips for a Perfect Result:
- Ensure the rice is well washed to avoid a sticky result.
- Use a large skillet with a thick bottom to allow for even cooking.
- If you want to add another layer of flavor, you can add some sliced green or black olives.
- You can replace the shrimp with other seafood, such as squid or mussels, according to your preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use short-grain rice? It is recommended to use long-grain rice for the best results, but if unavailable, short-grain rice can be used, adjusting the liquid amount accordingly.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Although the recipe contains shrimp, you can omit the seafood and add more vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to create a delicious vegetarian paella.
- What can I serve alongside the paella? This paella pairs perfectly with a fresh salad of tomatoes and cucumbers or a glass of chilled white wine.

Nutritional Benefits:
This shrimp and pea paella is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the shrimp, and fiber, due to the peas. Additionally, olive oil provides healthy fats, and the spices used are rich in antioxidants. It is a balanced meal full of nutrients.

I encourage you to explore and adapt this recipe to your own tastes. Paella is a versatile dish that can be customized in countless ways. So, let your imagination soar and enjoy every bite!

Enjoy your meal!