Vegetable Paella

Name: Vegetable Paella
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups Arborio rice; 1 large onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 2 zucchinis, diced; 1 cup green peas; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon saffron strands; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Lemon wedges (for serving)

Highlighted under: Cultural Kitchen Classics

I love making Vegetable Paella because it brings together vibrant flavors and textures in one beautiful dish. Every time I prepare it, the kitchen fills with the aroma of saffron and roasted vegetables. The blend of fresh, seasonal produce really allows each ingredient to shine while contributing to a hearty meal that's also satisfying and nutritious. Plus, it’s a great way to use any leftover vegetables. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this paella always impresses.

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:36:37.350Z

When I first learned to make Vegetable Paella, I was amazed by how versatile it is. I experimented with different vegetables and spices, ultimately creating a version that my family adores. Use fresh produce for the best flavors, and don’t hesitate to swap in whatever you have on hand. It’s that flexibility that makes this dish a staple in my kitchen.

One tip I discovered is to let the paella rest covered for a few minutes after cooking. This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and makes sure the rice has absorbed all the delicious aromas. I guarantee you’ll find it both delightful and satisfying!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Vibrant colors and fresh flavors that brighten up any meal
A comforting dish that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones
Versatile enough to adapt with seasonal vegetables

Understanding Your Ingredients

A key element of this Vegetable Paella is Arborio rice, typically used in risottos. Its high starch content gives the dish a creamy texture as it cooks, while also absorbing the rich flavors from the broth and vegetables. For the best results, avoid rinsing the rice before cooking; this helps retain the starches which contribute to the desired creaminess.

The selection of vegetables can greatly influence both flavor and texture. Feel free to customize based on what’s in season or what you have at home. For instance, asparagus or artichokes can add interesting flavors, while leafy greens like spinach can add nutrition and color. Just remember to adjust cooking times as softer vegetables might need less time in the pan.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Cooking paella involves layering flavors, which is why the order of adding ingredients is crucial. When you sauté the onion and garlic until translucent, it releases their natural sweetness, forming a solid flavor base. This step is essential as it sets the stage for the remaining vegetables and spices, which should also be cooked just enough to soften without turning mushy.

Another important technique is keeping the cooking process even and undisturbed. Once you add the broth, avoid stirring too much; this allows the rice to develop a slight crust at the bottom, known as 'socarrat.' If you’re unsure, a gentle shake of the pan can help evenly distribute the heat without losing that treasured crust.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Vegetable Paella:

Ingredients

2 cups Arborio rice
1 large onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 zucchinis, diced
1 cup green peas
4 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon saffron strands
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Make sure to have your ingredients prepped before starting to make the process easier!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Vegetable Paella:

Prepare the Base

In a large paella pan or a wide skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the bell peppers and zucchini, cooking them for about 5 minutes until they are slightly tender. Then, add the Arborio rice and stir to coat each grain with oil.

Incorporate Flavors

Add the saffron, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the rice mixture, stirring well.

Add Broth and Cook

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered on low heat for about 20 minutes.

Finish with Peas

Stir in the green peas, cover the pan, and let it cook for another 5-10 minutes until the rice is creamy and cooked through.

Serve

Remove from heat, let it rest for a few minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

Enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade Vegetable Paella!

Pro Tips

For a smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke or grilled vegetables. Additionally, you can custom tailor the vegetables based on what’s in season or available in your fridge.

Storing and Reheating

Storing leftover paella can be a great way to enjoy this dish over multiple meals. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out, ensuring every bite remains creamy and flavorful.

If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing your paella. Spread it out on a baking sheet to freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe container. This way, you can thaw individual portions without sacrificing quality. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then gently heat in a skillet or microwave.

Inspiring Serving Ideas

Serving suggestions can enhance your paella experience. Pair this vibrant dish with simple sides like a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavors. A light, tangy vinegar-based dressing could complement the vegetables beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich saffron notes in the paella.

I love serving Vegetable Paella family-style right in the pan, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. This not only looks stunning but also instills a sense of communal dining. Guests can customize their servings, adding more lemon to brighten flavors or extra herbs, making for a hearty and interactive dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio?

While you can use brown rice, keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time and more broth.

→ Is Vegetable Paella suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, this recipe is completely plant-based and vegan-friendly!

→ Can I make this paella in advance?

Yes, Vegetable Paella can be made ahead of time and reheated. Just add a splash of broth when reheating to keep it moist.

→ What other proteins can I add?

For non-vegans, options like shrimp, chicken, or chorizo can be added to offer a meaty version.