Grilled Mixed Paella: A Taste of Spain on Your Grill

Imagine the aroma of saffron and smoked paprika wafting through the air, mingling with the salty scent of the sea—all while surrounded by the laughter of family and friends. Grilled Mixed Paella isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and warmth. This vibrant one-pan meal filled with succulent shrimp, tender chicken, and smoky chorizo captures the essence of Spanish cuisine and transforms a regular gathering into a festive occasion.

Perfect for summer cookouts, cozy dinner parties, or any time you feel the need for a touch of culinary adventure, Grilled Mixed Paella is a delightful way to impress your guests while keeping the cooking process relaxed and enjoyable.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty Level: Medium

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 15g

Why Make This Recipe

Grilled Mixed Paella is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The ease of preparation allows you to enjoy more time with your guests while the rich, aromatic flavors tantalize the taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for a festive gathering or a cozy dinner with loved ones, this dish brings warmth, comfort, and joy to any occasion.

How to Make Grilled Mixed Paella

Ingredients

• 2 cups short-grain rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound mussels, cleaned
• 1/2 pound chicken, cut into pieces
• 1/2 pound chorizo sausage, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Optional Ingredients & Substitutions:

• Substitute chicken with tofu for a meatless version.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
• Add peas or green beans for added color and nutrition.

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat a splash of olive oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and bell pepper, sautéing until softened and fragrant.

2. Cook Protein: Stir in the chicken pieces and sliced chorizo, cooking until all are browned and fragrant.

3. Add Rice & Spices: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, saffron, rice, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture to evenly coat the rice with the flavors.

4. Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the combination to a gentle simmer.

5. Add Seafood: Gently arrange the shrimp and mussels on top of the rice mixture. Be careful not to stir after adding the seafood to maintain the layering.

6. Grill: Cover the pan with foil and place it on a preheated grill or over indirect heat. Cook for approximately 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender, and the liquid has been absorbed.

7. Rest & Serve: Remove from heat, let sit for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Cooking Tips

• Avoid overmixing once you add the seafood to maintain texture.
• Test the rice’s doneness by tasting; it should be firm yet cooked through.
• Keep an eye on the grill temp to ensure even cooking.

How to Serve

Serve Grilled Mixed Paella directly from the pan for a rustic touch. Pair it with a simple side salad, crusty bread, or a refreshing sangria. The dish is delightful as is, but a squeeze of fresh lemon elevates the flavors beautifully.

How to Store

• At Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be kept for up to 2 hours outside if properly covered.
• In the Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• In the Freezer: Freeze portions in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Expert Tips

• For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the broth.
• Make sure to use high-quality short-grain rice, as it absorbs flavors beautifully.
• Use fresh seafood for the best taste, but frozen can be a convenient alternative—just thaw properly before use.

Delicious Variations

• Vegan Paella: Replace the seafood and meats with seasonal vegetables, using a great vegetable broth.
• Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
• Saffron-Free: Substitute saffron with turmeric for color, though the flavor will differ.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits?
While traditional paella does not include fruits, a touch of lemon or orange zest can complement the seafood beautifully.

2. Why is it dry/dense?
If the paella turns out dry, it may need more liquid or was cooked too long. Ensure to monitor the heat during grilling and check for doneness.

3. What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be turned into delicious stuffed peppers or mixed into a seafood chowder.

4. Can I use frozen ingredients?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw seafood thoroughly before incorporating it.

Conclusion

Grilled Mixed Paella is a feast for the senses, combining a medley of flavors and textures that are sure to impress anyone at the dining table. Whether it’s a summer cookout or a cozy kitchen gathering, this dish invites joy and hearty conversation. We encourage you to try this recipe for yourself and share your thoughts or any creative twists you come up with. Enjoy your culinary adventure!