“Mesmerizing Gluten-Free Spanish Lunch: Scrumptious Seafood Paella with Aromatic Saffron Rice”

Allergens

Shellfish (Shrimp), Tree Nut (Saffron)

Ingredients

• 2 cups Arborio rice (gluten
• free)
• 4 cups chicken broth (gluten
• free)
• 1 pinch saffron threads
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium white onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup green peas, fresh or frozen
• 1/2 cup pitted green olives, halved
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite
• sized pieces
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep paella pan or heavy skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the tomatoes, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 3 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the Arborio rice with the chicken broth and saffron threads, ensuring the saffron is fully immersed in the liquid. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the saffron to infuse the broth.
4. Pour the rice mixture into the skillet with the vegetables, stirring well to combine. Bring the heat up to medium high and let it cook until the rice begins to absorb the liquid, around 8 10 minutes.
5. Add the chicken pieces and shrimp, distributing them evenly over the rice. Lower the heat to medium low, cover, and cook for another 12 15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the chicken and shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the green peas, green olives, parsley, lemon zest, and juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld further.
7. Garnish with additional parsley or lemon wedges if desired, and serve immediately.

Chef’s Insight

To achieve the perfect texture for this gluten-free seafood paella, it is essential to use Arborio rice specifically labeled as gluten-free.

Notes

This gluten-free Spanish seafood paella is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it perfect for special occasions or when entertaining guests.