A simple and flavorful vegetarian paella made with Arborio rice, vegetables, and spices, perfect for a hearty meal.

Easy Vegetarian Paella recipe
Prep Time
20min
Cook Time
25min
Total Time
45min

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 plate)

Main Ingredients

  • 1cup
    Arborio rice
  • 2cups
    vegetable broth
  • 1can
    diced tomatoes
  • 1piece
    onion, chopped
  • 2clove
    garlic, minced
  • 1piece
    red bell pepper, diced
  • 1piece
    yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 1piece
    zucchini, diced
  • 1cup
    frozen peas
  • 1tsp
    paprika
  • 1tsp
    turmeric
  • 1tsp
    saffron threads
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for cooking

Optional Toppings

  • lemon wedges
  • chopped parsley

How to make Easy Vegetarian Paella

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a large skillet or paella pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until translucent.

  2. Add the diced bell peppers and zucchini to the skillet and cook until they start to soften.

  3. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for a few minutes until the rice is coated with the oil and vegetables.

  4. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, paprika, turmeric, saffron threads, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all of the ingredients.

  5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the paella cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

  6. Stir in the frozen peas and let them cook for a couple of minutes until heated through.

  7. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the paella sit for a few minutes before serving.

  8. Serve the vegetarian paella hot with optional toppings like lemon wedges and chopped parsley.

Tips & Tricks

  1. You can use other types of short-grain rice like Bomba or Calasparra rice for a more authentic paella flavor. Adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio accordingly.

  2. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes to customize the dish.

  3. Saffron adds a distinct flavor and color to paella, but if you don't have it on hand, you can substitute it with a pinch of turmeric for a similar color.

  4. Prepare the paella in advance and reheat it before serving. Add a splash of vegetable broth to moisten the rice as it reheats.

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Saramin

(@678sarin)

My name is Saramin is a culinary enthusiast with a flair for transforming everyday ingredients into delightful, flavour-packed dishes. Passionate about home cooking, Sarin specializes...