Shrimp Paella with Spanish Rice

A flavorful dish brings together succulent shrimp and fragrant Spanish rice for a vibrant, satisfying meal. Perfect for sharing with friends or family, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean at home.

★★★★★5(1 reviews)Updated: Mar 31, 2026

Prep Time 25 min

Cook Time 38 min

Total Time 1 hr 3 min

Difficulty Hard

Ingredients 0/8

2 cups water 1 (7 ounce) box Spanish yellow rice mix (such as Goya®) 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided ½ cup diced onion 1 pound uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 green bell pepper, diced 1 tablespoon sweet and spicy seafood seasoning (such as McCormick®) ½ cup fresh parsley, or to taste

Why This Recipe Is So Flavorful

This dish brings together the rich flavors of the sea with fragrant saffron-infused rice. It’s a vibrant and colorful meal that feels special but is easy to make. Perfect for sharing with family or friends, it offers a satisfying balance of textures and tastes.

Cooking Advice

- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Toast the rice lightly before adding liquid to enhance its nutty taste.
- Avoid stirring the rice too much once the broth is added to achieve a nice crust on the bottom.

Step 1

Bring a pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rice mix along with a tablespoon of olive oil. Let it boil for a minute, then cover the pot and turn the heat down to low. Let it simmer gently until all the water is absorbed, which should take about 25 minutes.

Step 2

While the rice is cooking, heat the rest of the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until it just starts to soften, about 2 minutes. Add the shrimp, green and red bell peppers, and seafood seasoning. Cook everything together, stirring now and then, until the shrimp turn a bright pink and the peppers are tender, around 5 minutes.

Step 3

To serve, pile the rice onto plates and spoon the shrimp and pepper mixture over the top. Finish with a good sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Serving Variations

Serve with a wedge of lemon for a bright, fresh finish. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make great side dishes. For a festive touch, pair it with a chilled glass of white wine or sangria.

Leftover Storage Guide

Cool leftovers quickly and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the shrimp and rice may change.

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By Lucas Bennett

Food Writer

Lucas creates approachable recipes that balance flavor, simplicity, and reliability.