Romantic V-Day Dinners from Around the World

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Spain: Seafood Paella

A vibrant and aromatic dish, seafood paella is a Spanish classic that brings together saffron-infused rice, fresh seafood, and smoky chorizo in a single, stunning pan. The combination of flavors—rich, briny, and slightly spicy—creates a dish that feels both luxurious and comforting, perfect for a special evening. Try it with a glass of Spanish Albariño or Rioja, and enjoy your romantic evening with the flavors of Spain!

Ingredients (for 2 servings):

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp saffron threads (soaked in 2 tbsp warm water)
• 1/2 cup short-grain rice (such as bomba or arborio)
• 1 cup seafood or chicken broth
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 4 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 mussels, scrubbed and debearded
• 1/4 cup squid rings
• 2 oz Spanish chorizo, sliced
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges and chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a wide, shallow pan over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3 min). Stir in the paprika.
2. Add the rice to the pan, stirring to coat in the oil. Pour in the soaked saffron, broth, and wine, then bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Nestle the chorizo and tomatoes into the rice. Let it cook without stirring for about 10 min, allowing a crispy crust (socarrat) to form on the bottom.
4. Arrange the shrimp, mussels, and squid on top of the rice. Cover with a lid or foil and let cook for 5-7 min, until the shrimp are pink and the mussels have opened.
5. Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges, and serve straight from the pan.