If you’re searching for a vibrant, heartwarming dish to curl up with on chilly evenings, look no further than this Delicious Vegetable Paella (Paella Verdura) for Cozy Nights Recipe. It’s a celebration of fresh, colorful vegetables mingled with smoky paprika, delicate saffron, and tender paella rice, all coming together in a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe offers the perfect blend of textures and flavors, delivering a comforting yet exciting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple, mostly pantry-friendly ingredients, you can create a dish bursting with character. Each component plays a crucial role, from the silky sliced mushrooms and tender zucchini that add body and earthiness, to the piquillo peppers and tomatoes which bring sweetness and brightness. The star is the short-grain paella rice, soaking up every bit of broth and spice to form a rich, flavorful base.
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps to sauté the vegetables beautifully.
- 1 medium yellow onion: Builds a flavorful foundation; shallots make a lovely, fragrant alternative.
- 3 cloves garlic: Infuses a warm, aromatic depth; garlic powder works well if fresh isn’t on hand.
- 1 medium zucchini: Provides a tender bite and moisture; bell peppers or carrots offer a sweet twist.
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms: Offer earthy umami notes; zucchini can substitute if allergies are a concern.
- 1 14-ounce can canned chopped tomatoes: Brings acidity and a luscious sauciness; fire-roasted varieties elevate complexity.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Adds a tender green touch and nutritional boost; kale or chard are excellent alternatives.
- 1 cup piquillo peppers: Give a mild sweetness and vibrant color; any sweet bell pepper works well.
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas: Burst of sweetness and a pleasing pop; edamame can be a fun substitute.
- 1.5 cups short-grain paella rice: Essential for authentic texture; Bomba rice is ideal, Arborio rice can be used if needed.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors; adjust according to your taste.
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth; regular paprika is a milder substitute.
- 0.5 grams saffron threads (optional): Infuses a delicate floral and earthy aroma; turmeric works well for color and a hint of spice.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: The soulful liquid that brings everything together; water can be used for a lighter touch.
- 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley: Freshens the dish with herbal brightness; omit if unavailable.
- 2 lemons (lemon wedges for serving): Add a zesty, tangy finish just before eating.
How to Make Delicious Vegetable Paella (Paella Verdura) for Cozy Nights Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step sets the stage for a perfectly cooked paella where the rice will absorb all of those beautiful flavors you’re about to create.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the zucchini and mushrooms first, letting them cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until they soften and release their wonderful earthy aroma. This helps build a rich flavor base in your paella.
Step 3: Build the Foundation
Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking them for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and kosher salt to awaken the spices, releasing that smoky warmth that makes paella so irresistible.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Rice
Stir in the canned chopped tomatoes and the short-grain paella rice. The rice will soak up the luscious tomato juices and oils. Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer—the moment when the magic begins as the rice absorbs all those flavors.
Step 5: Add More Vegetables
Mix in the peas and piquillo peppers, then bring everything to a brief boil. These colorful additions add sweet pops of texture and vibrant hues that make this recipe shine visually and tastefully.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your skillet uncovered into the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. This allows the rice to cook through evenly and the flavors to deepen, building that signature paella consistency.
Step 7: Create the Socarrat
Return the skillet to the stovetop for a few more minutes on medium heat. This step is key for developing the famous crispy bottom layer called socarrat—a delightful textural contrast that every paella lover anticipates.
Step 8: Finish with Greens and Serve
Gently fold in the baby spinach until just wilted. This fresh, tender green adds brightness and color. Serve your Delicious Vegetable Paella (Paella Verdura) for Cozy Nights Recipe hot with chopped parsley and lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over, adding that perfect lively zing.
How to Serve Delicious Vegetable Paella (Paella Verdura) for Cozy Nights Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top brightens the dish both visually and flavor-wise, while lemon wedges provide a fresh acidity that balances the smoky richness. A drizzle of good-quality extra-virgin olive oil right before serving can also amplify the layers of flavor, making every bite even more decadent.
Side Dishes
This vegetable paella is wonderfully hearty on its own, but pairing it with a light green salad dressed in sherry vinaigrette or a simple garlic roasted vegetable medley can round out the meal nicely. Crusty bread is also a fantastic companion, perfect for mopping up every last bit of that flavorful broth.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your paella straight from a rustic paella pan for an authentic touch that impresses guests. For a whimsical twist, try plating individual servings in shallow bowls garnished with microgreens or edible flowers for a stunning presentation. Hosting a cozy night? Set the table with candles and Spanish-inspired décor to elevate the dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Delicious Vegetable Paella (Paella Verdura) for Cozy Nights Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully after resting, making the next-day meal just as enjoyable.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this paella freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the texture and balance of flavors.
Reheating
Gently reheat refrigerated or thawed paella on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally to warm evenly and restore that comforting, moist texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?
While Bomba rice is traditional for paella due to its ability to absorb flavors without becoming gummy, Arborio rice is a great substitute if you can’t find it. Avoid long-grain rice, as it won’t absorb the broth and flavors as well.
Is saffron necessary in this Delicious Vegetable Paella (Paella Verdura) for Cozy Nights Recipe?
Saffron adds a unique aroma and subtle flavor that’s iconic to paella. However, it’s optional. Turmeric can be used for color and mild earthiness, or you can leave it out entirely without greatly sacrificing taste.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as long as you use vegetable broth. Just ensure your broth does not contain any animal products for a completely plant-based meal.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
No worries. You can cook the entire recipe on the stovetop by simmering the paella with a lid on low heat until the rice is cooked. Finish it off by cooking uncovered for socarrat, adjusting heat carefully to avoid burning.
How spicy is this paella?
This paella is gently smoky and flavorful rather than spicy hot. Smoked paprika adds mild warmth without intense heat. If you prefer more spice, feel free to add a pinch of crushed red pepper or cayenne to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give this Delicious Vegetable Paella (Paella Verdura) for Cozy Nights Recipe a try—it’s one of those dishes that fills your kitchen with warmth and your heart with comfort. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, it brings the joy of vibrant vegetables and traditional Spanish flavors right to your table. Cozy up, pour yourself a glass of your favorite drink, and enjoy each delightful spoonful!
Print
Delicious Vegetable Paella (Paella Verdura) for Cozy Nights Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Spanish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Delicious Vegetable Paella (Paella Verdura) is a vibrant, comforting dish perfect for cozy nights. Bursting with fresh veggies, smoky paprika, and fragrant saffron, this classic Spanish rice dish is baked to perfection with a crispy bottom layer, making it a hearty and flavorful meal for four.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup piquillo peppers, sliced
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley
Pantry Items
- 1 14-ounce can chopped tomatoes
- 1.5 cups short-grain paella rice (preferably Bomba rice)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 grams saffron threads (optional)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
For Serving
- 2 lemons, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the paella.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini and mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and slightly browned.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Season the mixture with smoked paprika and kosher salt.
- Add Tomatoes and Rice: Mix in the canned chopped tomatoes and paella rice, ensuring the rice is well coated with the flavors. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on the stovetop.
- Add Peas and Peppers: Stir in the peas and piquillo peppers and bring the mixture to a brief boil to start cooking the rice evenly.
- Bake in Oven: Transfer the skillet uncovered to the preheated oven. Bake for 35-45 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Create Crispy Bottom: Remove the skillet from the oven and return it to the stovetop over medium heat. Cook for a few more minutes without stirring to develop the traditional crispy bottom layer known as socarrat.
- Add Spinach: Fold in the baby spinach until just wilted, preserving its vibrant color and freshness.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges to squeeze over the top for added brightness.
Notes
- You can substitute vegetable oil for olive oil if you prefer a more neutral taste.
- Shallots can be used instead of yellow onion for a more subtle flavor.
- If saffron is not available, turmeric makes an excellent substitute for color and mild flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free and use the appropriate rice variety.
- Feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, kale, or chard based on availability and preference.
