Seafood Paella with Cauliflower Rice is a delicious and low-carb version of the traditional Spanish paella. By swapping out the rice for cauliflower rice, you keep the dish light and keto-friendly without sacrificing flavor. This version still has all the vibrant colors and rich flavors of seafood paella, featuring a variety of seafood, saffron, and aromatic herbs. It’s a great way to enjoy the classic dish with a healthier twist!
Seafood Paella with Cauliflower Rice
Ingredients:
For the Paella:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium tomato, diced (or 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric (for color)
- 1/4 tsp saffron threads (optional, but recommended for authentic flavor)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or seafood broth if you prefer)
- 1 cup seafood broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, squid, and/or scallops)
- 1/2 lb firm white fish fillets (such as cod or halibut), cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
For the Cauliflower Rice:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, grated into rice-sized pieces (or 1 package of store-bought cauliflower rice)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cauliflower Rice:
- If using a whole cauliflower, chop the cauliflower into florets and grate them using a food processor, or pulse them in batches until they resemble rice grains. Alternatively, you can use pre-packaged cauliflower rice from the store.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the grated cauliflower, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender and the moisture has evaporated. Set aside and keep warm.
2. Prepare the Paella:
- In a large, wide skillet or paella pan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and diced tomato, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the tomatoes break down.
- Stir in the smoked paprika, ground turmeric, and saffron threads (if using). Let the spices toast for about 1 minute to release their aromas.
- Pour in the white wine (if using) and allow it to reduce by half, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the seafood broth (or chicken broth) and bring to a simmer.
3. Add the Seafood:
- Stir in the mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, squid, and fish) and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the seafood is mostly cooked through. If using mussels or clams, be sure they open up during this time. Discard any that don’t open.
- Add the peas (if using) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine the Cauliflower Rice:
- Gently stir the prepared cauliflower rice into the pan with the seafood and broth mixture, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Finish and Serve:
- Remove from heat and let the paella rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty finish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the paella in the pan for a rustic look or divide it among individual plates.
- Pair with a light, crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Albariño, for the perfect accompaniment.
Tips:
- For Extra Depth of Flavor: You can add a pinch of smoked sea salt or a small splash of sherry for added complexity in flavor.
- For More Color and Texture: You can add other vegetables, such as green beans, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers.
- Making It Spicy: If you prefer a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few sliced red chili peppers along with the garlic.
This Seafood Paella with Cauliflower Rice is a fresh, flavorful, and healthy version of the beloved Spanish dish. It’s full of delicious seafood, vibrant spices, and the natural sweetness of cauliflower rice that soaks up all the delicious sauce. Perfect for a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free meal!