Name: Quick Shrimp Paella
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 cup rice (Use short-grain rice for best results.); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup shrimp (Peeled and deveined.); 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp olive oil; 1 lemon wedge (For garnish.)

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Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight meal: Quick Shrimp Paella! This dish is a total lifesaver when I need something delicious and satisfying on the table in just 20 minutes. Seriously, I can almost hear the sizzle of shrimp and the aroma of paprika wafting through my kitchen as I whip this up. The best part? It’s not just quick; it’s bursting with flavor and feels like a little getaway to Spain every time I make it. I remember the first time I tried paella during a trip to Barcelona, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Now, I get to bring that vibrant, seafood goodness home with this easy recipe that I can whip up in a flash. Trust me, once you try this Quick Shrimp Paella, you’ll want it in your weekly rotation!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Quick Shrimp Paella:

1 cup short-grain rice – Short-grain rice is key for that perfect paella texture.
2 cups chicken broth – This adds a depth of flavor that takes this dish to the next level.
1 cup shrimp – Peeled and deveined, these little beauties are the star of the show!
1 tsp paprika – This gives the paella its signature smoky flavor.
1 tsp olive oil – For sautéing and adding richness.
1 lemon wedge – For garnish, it adds a bright, zesty finish to your dish.

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or add a touch of saffron for an extra special twist!

How to Prepare Quick Shrimp Paella

Now, let’s dive into the fun part – making your Quick Shrimp Paella! This step-by-step guide will have you cooking like a pro in no time. Ready? Let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heating the Oil

First things first, grab your trusty skillet and place it on the stove over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up for a minute or so. You want it hot enough that when you add the rice, it sizzles immediately. Trust me, this is where the flavor begins!

Toasting the Rice

Next up, it’s time to toast the rice. Pour in your cup of short-grain rice and stir it around for about 2 minutes. This toasting step is super important! It enhances the nutty flavor of the rice and helps it absorb all those delicious flavors later on. Keep an eye on it; you want it to be slightly translucent but not browned.

Adding the Broth and Spices

Now, let’s amp up the flavor! Carefully pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in that fragrant paprika. Give it a good stir to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a boil, and watch those bubbles start to dance! Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This is when the magic happens!

Cooking the Shrimp

After the rice has simmered and absorbed most of the broth, it’s time to add the shrimp. Toss them in and give them a gentle stir. Cook them for about 3 minutes, or until they turn that beautiful pink hue. This color change is your cue that they’re perfectly cooked! Don’t overdo it; shrimp can get rubbery if left on the heat too long.

Serving Suggestions

Once everything is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve! Scoop your vibrant paella onto plates and don’t forget to garnish with lemon wedges. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and adds a delightful zing. Enjoy your Quick Shrimp Paella hot and fresh – it’s a fiesta on your plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to impress, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Dish: Bursting with the rich taste of shrimp and the warmth of paprika, each bite transports you straight to the coast of Spain.
Versatility: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or spices, allowing you to personalize the dish to your taste!
Easy Cleanup: With just one skillet needed, this recipe makes both cooking and cleaning a breeze.

Tips for Success

To make sure your Quick Shrimp Paella turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips to keep in mind:

Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh shrimp make a world of difference! Opt for wild-caught if you can find them, as they have a better flavor and texture.
Use Short-Grain Rice: Stick with short-grain rice, like Arborio or Bomba, for that classic paella consistency. It absorbs the broth beautifully and gives you that signature creamy texture.
Don’t Rush the Toasting: Take your time when toasting the rice; this step builds flavor. You want it just slightly translucent before adding the broth.
Mind the Heat: Keep an eye on your heat levels. Once you add the broth, bring it to a boil and then lower it to a simmer to avoid burning the bottom.
Customize with Veggies: Don’t hesitate to throw in some peas, bell peppers, or even artichokes to add color and nutrition to your paella!

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutrition for my Quick Shrimp Paella, perfect for keeping track of your meal’s goodness:

Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 800mg
Potassium: 300mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Vitamin A: 500 IU
Vitamin C: 15mg
Calcium: 50mg
Iron: 2mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and specific quantities used. Enjoy your meal knowing it’s not only quick and delicious but also packed with nutrients!

FAQ Section

I’ve gathered some common questions about my Quick Shrimp Paella to help you out. Here we go!

Can I substitute the shrimp? Absolutely! Feel free to swap in other seafood like scallops or even chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What if I don’t have short-grain rice? If you can’t find short-grain rice, you can use medium-grain rice, but the texture might be slightly different. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!
How many servings does this recipe make? This recipe is perfect for 2 servings, but you can easily double it for a small gathering. Just ensure your skillet is large enough!
Can I make this ahead of time? While paella is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the rice and shrimp separately. Just combine them and reheat gently before serving.
What vegetables can I add? Peas, bell peppers, or even green beans work great in this paella! Toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor and nutrition.

Equipment Needed for Quick Shrimp Paella

To whip up your Quick Shrimp Paella smoothly, you’ll need just a couple of essential tools. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Skillet: A good, sturdy skillet is crucial for this recipe. A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works wonders for even cooking and easy cleanup.
Spatula: You’ll need a spatula to stir the rice and shrimp, ensuring everything is perfectly combined and cooked evenly.

With these two simple pieces of equipment, you’ll be all set to create your delicious paella in no time!

For more delicious recipes, check out my Pinterest page!