Vegetable Paella

Name: Vegetable Paella
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 100g green beans, trimmed; 2 tomatoes, chopped; 1 ½ cups Bomba rice (or Arborio rice); 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon saffron threads; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Cultural Kitchen Classics

I absolutely love making Vegetable Paella because it’s vibrant, flavorful, and a fantastic way to showcase fresh produce. This one-pan dish brings together a symphony of colorful vegetables and aromatic spices that fill your kitchen with an irresistible scent. When I want a hearty yet healthy meal that’s easy to prepare, I turn to this recipe. It's perfect for family dinners or gatherings, as it brings everyone together around the table to enjoy good food and great company.

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:41:35.757Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of a Vegetable Paella, I couldn't believe how simple yet flavorful it could be. After experimenting with various vegetables, I found that bell peppers, zucchini, and green beans created the best balance of color and taste. I love using saffron to give it that traditional golden hue, but turmeric works beautifully as a substitute if you want something more budget-friendly.

What really elevates this dish is the way the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors from the broth and vegetables. I recommend cooking it in a wide, shallow pan to achieve that coveted socarrat—the crispy base that adds a delightful texture. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Colorful medley of vegetables that makes it a feast for the eyes
Rich flavors from the spices and broth that will awaken your taste buds
Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers

Choosing the Right Rice

Selecting the right type of rice is crucial for achieving the authentic texture of paella. Bomba rice, a short-grain variety, absorbs liquid exceptionally well while maintaining its shape. If you can't find Bomba rice, Arborio rice is a suitable substitute, although it may result in a creamier texture. Whichever rice you choose, make sure to rinse it beforehand to remove excess starch; this will help achieve that coveted al dente bite.

The rice should ideally cook in a single layer across the pan. Therefore, using a wide, shallow pan is essential for even cooking. This allows the rice to absorb flavors from the broth and spices effectively. As you level the rice in the pan, keep it evenly distributed to ensure uniform cooking and to prevent any clumping.

Enhancing Flavor with Saffron and Spices

Saffron not only adds a beautiful golden hue to the paella but imparts a complex, earthy flavor that’s truly unique. To maximize its flavor, consider blooming the saffron threads in a small amount of warm broth before adding them to the pan. This technique enhances their potency, allowing the saffron to integrate more fully with the other ingredients.

Additionally, smoked paprika is a key ingredient that contributes depth to the dish. If you’re looking to try a different take, you can experiment with a pinch of cumin or turmeric for added warmth and color. Just remember to adjust the quantities according to your taste preference, so the spices complement rather than overwhelm the delicate balance of flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for your Vegetable Paella:

Vegetables and Aromatics

1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, sliced
100g green beans, trimmed
2 tomatoes, chopped

Grains and Spices

1 ½ cups Bomba rice (or Arborio rice)
3 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon saffron threads
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to create a delicious paella!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to cook your Vegetable Paella:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large paella pan or skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and green beans. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until vegetables start to soften.

Incorporate Rice and Spices

Add the Bomba rice to the pan, stirring well to combine with the vegetables. Sprinkle in the saffron, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix to coat the rice.

Pour in Broth

Carefully pour in the vegetable broth and add the chopped tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Simmer and Cook

Reduce the heat to low and let the paella simmer without stirring for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. If needed, add a little more broth.

Achieve Socarrat

When cooking time is almost up, increase the heat for a few minutes to create a crispy layer at the bottom. You’ll hear a delightful crackling sound!

Let the paella rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Vegetable Paella!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving. Pair it with a wedge of lemon for an extra zesty kick!

Serving Suggestions

Paella is traditionally served right from the pan, allowing guests to help themselves while enjoying the accompanying aromas. I like to garnish my Vegetable Paella with fresh parsley and a slice of lemon, which adds a bright finish to each serving. The acidity of lemon balances the richness of the dish beautifully and enhances the overall flavor.

For a heartier meal, serve the paella with a side of crusty bread or a light salad dressed with a vinaigrette. This complements the dish without overpowering it, allowing the vegetables and spices to shine through.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're looking to prepare this dish in advance, you can cook the paella and cool it to room temperature before storing. Once cooled, transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of vegetable broth to prevent drying out.

I do not recommend freezing Vegetable Paella, as the texture of the rice can change and become mushy when thawed. However, you can prepare the vegetables and spices ahead of time, keeping them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. This way, you’ll save time on busy nights while still enjoying a fresh and flavorful dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with seasonal vegetables like asparagus, peas, or artichokes.

→ Is it possible to make this vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are plant-based, making it naturally vegan.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before eating.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to cook the paella fresh to enjoy its perfect texture.