Summer Vegetable Paella
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup bomba or arborio rice 
- 2 tablespoons olive oil 
- 1 onion, finely chopped 
- 3 cloves garlic, minced 
- 1 red bell pepper, diced 
- 1 zucchini, diced 
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces 
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen) 
- 4 cups vegetable broth 
- 1 pinch saffron threads (optional) 
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 
- Salt and pepper to taste 
- Lemon wedges and fresh parsley for garnish 
PREPARATION
- In a large, deep skillet or paella pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened. 
- Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and green beans. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. 
- Stir in the rice, cherry tomatoes, peas, and saffron (if using), coating the rice in the oil and vegetables. 
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. 
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. 
- Remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley before serving. 
 
                        