Seafood with rice and vegetables

Seafood with Rice and Vegetables: A Quick and Tasty Delicacy

Who doesn't love a dish that combines the freshness of the sea with the flavor of fresh vegetables? This seafood recipe with rice and vegetables is not only simple but also quick, perfect for a special dinner or to impress your guests. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a flavorful dish, ideal for hot days or when you crave a touch of elegance on your plate.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:
- 200 g seafood (you can choose frozen or fresh mixes)
- 1 cup of rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 1 red bell pepper (for a splash of color and sweetness)
- 1 onion (medium, for a slightly sweet taste)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic (for aroma and flavor)
- 150 ml white wine (choose a dry, quality wine)
- 3 cups vegetable broth (you can use concentrated cubes or homemade broth)
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

The story behind the recipe:
This recipe is a tribute to the bounty of the sea and nature. Seafood has been consumed throughout history as an important source of protein and nutrients. Although various seafood recipes are found around the world, this simple combination with rice and vegetables makes it accessible to everyone without compromising taste.

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion, cutting the red bell pepper into small cubes, and peeling the garlic. Choose the seafood you prefer, ensuring it is of good quality. If using frozen seafood, let it thaw completely before using.

2. Cooking the rice: In a pot, add a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Then add the red bell pepper and mix well. After 2-3 minutes, add the rice and sauté it together with the vegetables for about 1-2 minutes. This step is essential for adding flavor to the rice.

3. Adding the broth: Pour the 3 cups of vegetable broth into the pot and let it boil. Once the broth has started to boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice absorb the liquid for 15 minutes, or until it becomes soft and fluffy.

4. Preparing the seafood: In a separate pan, add a little olive oil and sauté the garlic for 1 minute, just enough to release its aroma. Add the seafood to the pan and deglaze with the white wine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough.

5. Assembling the dish: Once the rice is ready, remove it from the heat. You can place it in a round mold for elegant plating or simply divide it onto plates. Arrange the seafood on top or alongside, according to preference.

Serving and presentation suggestions:
This dish is served warm, but you can also add a few fresh parsley leaves on top for an extra splash of color and freshness. A slice of lemon on the side is also very suitable, providing a pleasant contrast of acidity.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add even more vegetables, you can include finely chopped carrots or zucchini for a mix of textures and colors.
- Instead of white wine, you can use lemon juice for a fresher taste or even a splash of soy sauce for an Asian twist.
- Ensure the seafood is fresh and of good quality for a delicious dish.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This dish has approximately 450 calories per serving, being an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Seafood is rich in omega-3, contributing to heart health, while vegetables provide essential fiber and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use brown rice? Yes, but the cooking time will be longer, so make sure to follow the instructions on the package.
- What type of seafood is best? Shrimp, squid, and mussels are excellent choices. You can use a mix for varied texture.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? You can replace the seafood with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth without animal-derived ingredients.

Unique variation:
If you want to surprise with a different taste, try adding a teaspoon of saffron to the broth for a subtle flavor and vibrant color of the rice. This addition will transform the dish into a special delicacy.

Enjoy every bite and savor the aroma of the sea with this simple and quick seafood recipe with rice and vegetables! Bon appétit!