9 Budget-Friendly Rice Recipes That Taste Gourmet

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This Spanish-inspired paella delivers vibrant flavors without the expensive seafood, making it a budget-friendly twist on the classic. Colorful vegetables and smoky paprika create depth, while canned tuna adds protein and richness at a fraction of the cost. Cooked all in one pan, it’s hearty enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve guests. Simple, satisfying, and packed with Mediterranean flair, this paella proves that gourmet doesn’t have to be pricey.

Ingredients (for 4 servings):

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups uncooked short-grain rice (such as arborio or bomba)
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 pinch saffron (optional)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 cans of tuna, drained
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or paella pan over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and zucchini, cooking until softened, about 5 min.
2. Stir in the garlic and rice, toasting the grains for 1–2 min.
3. Add the vegetable broth, smoked paprika, and saffron (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, about 18–20 min.
4. Stir in the peas and canned tuna, cooking just until heated through.
5. Season with salt and black pepper, then serve with lemon wedges for a bright finish.