Paella Rice Salad Recipe

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Paella is a flavorful Spanish dish traditionally made with rice, seafood, and vegetables. This recipe offers a lighter version of the classic dish by turning it into a cold rice salad, perfect for warm days or as a side dish at gatherings. This Paella Rice Salad is packed with vegetables, and vibrant flavors, and can be made ahead for easy meals.


Paella Rice Salad Ingredients

  • 1 cup Bomba rice (or any short-grain rice like Arborio)
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup black or green olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • A pinch of saffron threads (optional for authentic paella flavor)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Paella Rice Salad Recipe Directions

  1. Cook the rice using a rice cooker or over the stove. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and set it aside to cool.
  2. While the rice cools, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. 
  3. Stir in the diced bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes until tender.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rice, sautéed vegetables, peas, cherry tomatoes, olives, and parsley. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well mixed.
  5. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. 
  6. Garnish with a bit more parsley and lemon wedges, if desired.
  7. Serve.

Recipe Tips

  • Bomba rice is the best type of rice for Paella. However, if it isn’t available, you can also use Arborio rice. Non-aromatic medium or short-grain rice works just as well. 
  • If saffron is unavailable, you can omit it or use a pinch of turmeric to give the rice a golden hue.
  • This salad can be made the day before. It tastes better the longer the flavors marinate.
  • To make the salad more filling, consider adding cooked shrimp, chicken, or chorizo for a more traditional paella flavor.
  • This Paella Rice Salad is versatile. Serve it as a side dish with grilled meats, or seafood, or on its own as a light meal. It’s also perfect for picnics and potlucks since it can be served cold.

Final Note

Paella Rice Salad offers a refreshing and flavorful twist on the traditional Spanish dish. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite proteins. Enjoy the vibrant taste of paella in a fresh, chilled form!

Eager to make more delicious dishes? Have a look at our collection of recipes.