Paella Rice Salad Recipe
Table of Contents
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

- Cook the rice using a rice cooker or over the stove. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and set it aside to cool.
- 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.
- Stir in the diced bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes until tender.
- 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.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Garnish with a bit more parsley and lemon wedges, if desired.
- 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.