Savory Shrimp and Quinoa Paella Delight
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Savory Shrimp and Quinoa Paella Delight. This one-dish meal is a delightful fusion of succulent shrimp, hearty quinoa, and fresh vegetables, all infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this easy-to-follow recipe is not only nutritious but also visually appealing, making it a fantastic centerpiece for your dining table. Packed with protein and essential nutrients, each bite transports you to sunny coastlines while you indulge in this comforting dish. Gather your loved ones and share this tasty experience!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons (divided)
frozen shrimp
1 lb (small, ready-to-eat)
onion
1 large (diced)
green bell peppers
2 (diced)
fresh corn
1 cup
tomatoes
2 medium (diced)
dried parsley
2 teaspoons
dried dill
1 teaspoon
mild curry powder
1 teaspoon
cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
low sodium vegetable broth
1 cup
clam juice
8 ounces (1 bottle)
lemon juice
1 tablespoon
quinoa
1 cup (rinsed)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Shrimp and Quinoa Paella Delight?
It is a nutritious one-dish meal that fuses Mediterranean flavors with succulent shrimp, hearty quinoa, and fresh vegetables.
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh shrimp; just ensure they are peeled and deveined before cooking.
Is quinoa a good substitute for traditional paella rice?
Yes, quinoa provides a heartier texture and higher protein content while absorbing the aromatic broth beautifully.
What type of olive oil is recommended?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich flavor and health benefits.
How do I prepare the quinoa for this recipe?
The quinoa should be rinsed thoroughly under cold water before cooking to remove its natural bitter coating.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild kick from the curry powder and cayenne pepper, but you can adjust the cayenne to your preference.
What can I use if I don't have clam juice?
You can substitute clam juice with additional vegetable broth or a light seafood stock.
Can I use red bell peppers instead of green?
Absolutely, red bell peppers will add a sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
Is this paella gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients, including quinoa and shrimp, are naturally gluten-free.
How do I mince garlic cloves?
Peel the cloves, smash them with the flat side of a knife, and then chop them into very small pieces.
Can I add other seafood to this dish?
Yes, mussels, clams, or scallops would make excellent additions to this seafood-themed meal.
Is it necessary to use low-sodium vegetable broth?
It is recommended to help control the overall salt content of the dish, especially since clam juice can be salty.
What does the curry powder add to the flavor?
Mild curry powder adds an aromatic warmth and depth that complements the Mediterranean herbs.
Can I use canned corn instead of fresh?
Yes, canned corn can be used; just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the pan.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can this recipe be frozen?
While you can freeze it, the texture of the vegetables and shrimp may change slightly upon thawing.
What is the role of lemon juice in this recipe?
Lemon juice provides a bright acidity that balances the savory flavors and enhances the seafood.
Can I make this dish vegan?
To make it vegan, replace the shrimp with chickpeas or tofu and swap the clam juice for more vegetable broth.
Do I need to cook the quinoa separately?
No, this is a one-dish meal where the quinoa cooks directly in the broth and juices within the pan.
Is this a good meal for weight loss?
Yes, it is a high-protein, fiber-rich, and vegetable-heavy dish which is generally suitable for healthy eating plans.
How many tomatoes are needed?
The recipe calls for two medium tomatoes, diced.
What herbs are used for seasoning?
Dried parsley and dried dill are used to provide an earthy and fresh Mediterranean profile.
How much cayenne pepper should I add?
The recipe suggests 1/4 teaspoon, but you should add it to taste based on your heat tolerance.
What size should the shrimp be?
The recipe suggests small, ready-to-eat shrimp for quick cooking and easy eating.
Can I use dried onion instead of fresh?
Fresh diced onion is preferred for texture and sweetness, but 1-2 tablespoons of dried minced onion could work in a pinch.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, the small shrimp and familiar vegetables often appeal to children, especially if the cayenne is omitted.
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation and cooking typically take about 30 to 40 minutes, making it great for weeknights.
Should I use a specific pan?
A large skillet or a traditional paella pan works best to ensure even cooking and enough space for all ingredients.
Does the shrimp need to be thawed first?
Yes, it is best to thaw the frozen shrimp before adding them to the dish for even cooking.
Can I substitute the quinoa with couscous?
You can, but the cooking time and liquid ratios will change significantly as couscous cooks much faster than quinoa.