Vegetable paella is a jewel of Spanish gastronomy that combines the best of the garden with the authentic flavor of the Mediterranean. Ideal for those looking for a vegan, healthy, and flavorful option, this recipe is perfect for sharing with family or friends at a summer meal.
If you love traditional dishes but also want to take care of your diet or follow a plant-based diet, keep reading! We'll tell you how to prepare a delicious, colorful, and very easy-to-make vegetable paella.
✅ Ingredients for 4 people
Total time: 50 minutes
Level: Easy
100% vegan and gluten-free
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300 g round rice (bomba type)
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1 red pepper
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1 green pepper
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1 zucchini
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1 eggplant
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1 carrot
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150 g green beans
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100 g peas (can be frozen)
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2 ripe tomatoes (grated)
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2 garlic cloves
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1 liter vegetable broth
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Saffron threads or turmeric
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Extra virgin olive oil
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Salt to taste
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Sweet paprika
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Lemon (optional, for serving)
🍴 Step-by-step preparation
1. Prepare the vegetables
Wash all vegetables well. Cut the peppers into strips, the eggplant and zucchini into cubes, the carrot into thin slices, and the green beans into medium pieces. Peel and mince the garlic.
2. Flavorful sofrito
In a paella pan or large skillet, add a good splash of olive oil and sauté the garlic. Add the peppers, carrot, and green beans. Cook for a few minutes, then add the eggplant and zucchini. Cook until everything is lightly browned.
3. Add the tomato
Add the grated tomato and a teaspoon of sweet paprika. Cook over medium heat until the tomato is well integrated, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the rice and broth
Add the rice and stir for 1 minute so it absorbs the flavors. Add the hot broth, saffron (or a pinch of turmeric for color), and peas. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cooking
Cook without stirring for about 18-20 minutes, first over medium-high heat for the first 10 minutes, then lower the heat. If necessary, add a little more hot broth to prevent it from drying out.
6. Rest and presentation
When the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and cover the paella with a clean cloth. Let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve with lemon slices if desired.
🌱 Tips and Variations
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You can add artichokes, wild asparagus, or even seasonal mushrooms for a special touch.
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If you don't have homemade vegetable broth, you can use organic or bouillon cubes dissolved in hot water.
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For a smoky touch, you can add a pinch of pimentón de la Vera.
🔍 Benefits of Vegan Paella
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Low in fat and rich in fiber.
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Source of vitamins and minerals thanks to the variety of vegetables.
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Ideal for people with gluten intolerance, as it contains no flours or derivatives.
📸 Want more healthy recipes?
On our blog, you'll find many more vegan and summer recipes that combine flavor, health, and sustainability. Discover them and surprise everyone with your dishes!
