If you are yearning for a dish that warmly embraces you with rich colors, bright flavors, and wholesome comfort, look no further than this Delicious Vegetable Paella (Paella Verdura) for Cozy Nights Recipe. This vibrant vegetarian paella combines the earthiness of mushrooms, the sweetness of piquillo peppers, and the subtle warmth of smoked paprika and saffron in a way that feels like a hug on a chilly evening. It’s a perfect balance of textures from tender rice to the gentle crunch of fresh vegetables, offering a hearty, satisfying meal that is both nourishing and delightfully festive. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or a vegetable lover craving something special, this recipe invites you to slow down and savor the simple magic of Spanish flavors at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are remarkably straightforward yet each plays a crucial role in building the layers of taste, texture, and eye-catching color in this paella. From the luscious olive oil that helps develop depth, to the saffron that infuses a golden hue and subtle aroma, every component shines in its own right.
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Use to gently sauté vegetables and add richness; vegetable oil works too if you want a neutral flavor.
- 1 medium yellow onion: Provides a mild, sweet base layer of flavor; shallots can be swapped for a more fragrant touch.
- 3 cloves garlic: Brings aromatic punch; garlic powder is a handy alternative if fresh isn’t at hand.
- 1 medium zucchini: Offers mild freshness and texture; bell peppers or carrots can be experimented with for variety.
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms: Adds umami complexity and earthiness; zucchini or omission is fine for allergies.
- 1 14-ounce can canned chopped tomatoes: Delivers natural acidity and moisture; fire-roasted tomatoes add smoky depth.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Contributes vibrant color and tender leafy greens; kale or chard are lovely swaps.
- 1 cup piquillo peppers: Sweet with mild heat, essential for paella flavor; any sweet bell pepper fits well.
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas: Bursts of sweetness and texture; edamame makes a fun, protein-packed substitute.
- 1.5 cups short-grain paella rice: Bomba rice is ideal for absorbing flavors and achieving perfect texture; Arborio rice works as a substitute.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the flavors; adjust for personal taste.
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika: Adds warmth and smokiness central to paella’s character; regular paprika tones it down.
- 0.5 grams saffron threads: Optional, but a classic paella hallmark that provides color and subtle aroma; turmeric can be used instead.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: Creates the cooking liquid infused with flavor; water may be used for a low-sodium version.
- 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley: Finishing herb that brightens the dish.
- 2 lemons (wedges for serving): Adds fresh zestiness at the table, essential for a true paella experience.
How to Make Delicious Vegetable Paella (Paella Verdura) for Cozy Nights Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Vegetables
Begin by heating your oven to a steady 375°F (190°C). While it warms, give the zucchini and mushrooms a good sauté in the olive oil over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes. Allow them to soften but still hold their bite, which lays down a savory foundation for the dish.
Step 2: Add Onion, Garlic, and Seasonings
Next, stir in the finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. This is where the aromatic heart of the paella starts to form. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika along with kosher salt to unlock the bold smoky essence and perfectly season the base.
Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Rice
Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes, stirring thoroughly to mix their juicy tang into the pan. Add the paella rice, carefully stirring so every grain gets coated with the luscious mixture before pouring in the vegetable broth. Bring everything gently to a simmer, allowing the rice to soak up the rich liquid and meld with the vibrant tomato flavors.
Step 4: Add Peas and Piqqilo Peppers and Bring to a Boil
Fold in the fresh peas and the sweet piquillo peppers, letting the mix come to a brief boil. This step deepens the flavors and gently softens the vegetables while maintaining their appeal. You want the peppers and peas to stay bright and juicy for the final dish.
Step 5: Transfer to Oven and Bake
Place the entire skillet uncovered in the oven. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, allowing the rice to fully cook and absorb all the aromatic flavors. The oven helps set the texture and gives the paella that satisfying body which distinguishes it from a typical stove-top rice dish.
Step 6: Create the Signature Crispy Bottom
Return the skillet to the stovetop for a few minutes over medium heat to develop the cherished crust at the bottom known as ‘socarrat.’ This is a defining feature of any traditional paella — that toasty, slightly crunchy layer that provides incredible texture contrast and flavor depth.
Step 7: Finish with Baby Spinach and Fresh Herbs
Gently fold in the baby spinach until it just wilts from the residual heat. Sprinkle on the chopped parsley to brighten the dish and add fresh herbal notes just before serving. This finishing touch elevates the rasa experience and injects pops of green that make the paella look as vibrant as it tastes.
How to Serve Delicious Vegetable Paella (Paella Verdura) for Cozy Nights Recipe
Garnishes
Lemon wedges are the perfect garnish to complement this flavorful vegetable paella. The bright acidity cuts through the richness and highlights the layers of spice and earthiness. Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds both a fresh aroma and beautiful contrast in color, making every plate look irresistible.
Side Dishes
This paella shines as a standalone main course, but if you want to embellish your cozy night feast, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty artisan bread to soak up any leftover juices. A chilled glass of white wine or a sparkling beverage pairs beautifully to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve this Delicious Vegetable Paella (Paella Verdura) for Cozy Nights Recipe straight from a rustic paella pan right at the table. This communal style invites conversation and sharing, capturing the spirit of traditional Spanish dining. Garnish each serving with extra lemon wedges and fresh parsley for a colorful, appetizing display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover paella to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic next-day meal. Just be sure to cool it promptly to keep the vegetables fresh and the rice safe.
Freezing
You can freeze the paella in a suitable container for up to 2 months. Because of the vegetables and rice, the texture may change slightly upon thawing but reheating carefully will bring back most of its original charm. Defrost overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or vegetable broth to rehydrate the rice. Cover the pan to trap steam and heat evenly without drying out the veggies. Microwaving is possible but may lead to uneven heating and a bit less satisfying texture.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this paella?
Absolutely! This Delicious Vegetable Paella (Paella Verdura) for Cozy Nights Recipe is very flexible. Feel free to swap or add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, edamame, or kale depending on your preference or what’s in season.
Is saffron necessary for authentic flavor?
Saffron does give a unique, delicate aroma and sunny color typical of traditional paella, but it’s optional and can be replaced with turmeric for budget-friendliness or dietary reasons without losing the essence of the dish.
What if I don’t have Bomba rice?
If Bomba rice is unavailable, Arborio rice is a great substitute because it also absorbs liquid well and maintains a creamy yet firm texture, essential characteristics for making a successful paella.
Can I make this paella vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable broth and plant-based ingredients only. Just make sure your broth is vegan and you’re all set for a wholesome, plant-powered meal.
How do I get the perfect socarrat crispy bottom?
After baking in the oven, placing the skillet back on the stovetop over medium heat without stirring helps develop the crispy socarrat layer. Listen for a slight crackling sound and avoid burning by monitoring closely.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving this Delicious Vegetable Paella (Paella Verdura) for Cozy Nights Recipe a try. It brings warmth, hearty vegetables, and a touch of Spanish magic to your kitchen with every bite. Perfect for cozy evenings when you want something both vibrant and comforting, it’s a beautiful dish to share, enjoy, and make truly your own.
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 Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Spanish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Vegetable Paella (Paella Verdura) is a flavorful and comforting Spanish rice dish packed with fresh vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, and piquillo peppers. This recipe utilizes traditional short-grain paella rice and aromatic spices like smoked paprika and saffron to recreate an authentic paella experience perfect for cozy nights.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (can substitute with vegetable oil)
- 1 medium yellow onion (can substitute with shallots)
- 3 cloves garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 medium zucchini (alternatively bell peppers or carrots)
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms (can substitute with zucchini or omit)
- 1 cup piquillo peppers (or any sweet bell pepper)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas (edamame as a substitute)
- 2 cups baby spinach (can be kale or chard)
Pantry & Spices
- 1 14-ounce can chopped tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra flavor)
- 1.5 cups short-grain paella rice (Bomba rice preferred; Arborio as substitute)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (regular paprika for milder flavor)
- 0.5 grams saffron threads (optional; turmeric as substitution)
Liquids & Garnishes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (use water for low sodium)
- 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
- 2 lemons, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the paella.
- Cook Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced zucchini and mushrooms, cooking them for 5 to 7 minutes until tender and starting to brown.
- Add Aromatics and Seasoning: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant. Season the mixture with smoked paprika and kosher salt to build a smoky, savory base flavor.
- Add Tomatoes and Rice: Stir in the canned chopped tomatoes along with the short-grain paella rice. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer.
- Add Peas and Peppers: Incorporate the fresh or frozen peas and piquillo peppers, then bring the mixture to a brief boil to combine flavors.
- Bake Paella: Transfer the skillet uncovered to the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. This cooking step allows the rice to absorb the broth and fully cook through.
- Create Socarrat (Crispy Bottom): Remove the skillet from the oven and place it back on the stovetop over medium heat. Cook for a few additional minutes to form the traditional crispy bottom layer called socarrat.
- Wilt Spinach and Serve: Fold in the baby spinach until just wilted to retain vibrant color and nutrients. Serve the paella hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges for brightness.
Notes
- Bomba rice is best for authentic texture, but Arborio can be substituted if unavailable.
- Saffron threads add genuine flavor and color but can be replaced with turmeric for a budget-friendly option.
- Adjust salt according to your broth’s sodium level and personal taste.
- The crispy bottom (socarrat) is essential for traditional paella—don’t skip stovetop crisping after baking.
- Feel free to swap vegetables based on seasonality or preference, ensuring a balance of textures.
- For a vegan or vegetarian option, ensure broth is vegetable-based and omit any animal-derived ingredients.
