Recipe: Spanish Paella Pizza

Introduction

Spanish Paella Pizza is a delightful fusion of two beloved dishes – the classic Spanish paella and the Italian pizza. This unique recipe combines the rich flavors of saffron-infused rice, juicy seafood, and vibrant vegetables with the crispy and cheesy goodness of a pizza. Whether you’re a fan of paella or pizza, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made pizza dough
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 pinch of saffron threads
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 8 ounces of mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, calamari)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup grated Manchego cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Rice

In a small bowl, dissolve the saffron threads in a tablespoon of warm water. In a large pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent. Add the Arborio rice and stir well to coat it with the oil.

Step 2: Cooking the Rice

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the dissolved saffron. Stir the mixture gently, then cover the pan and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Preparing the Pizza Dough

Preheat your oven to the temperature recommended on the pizza dough package. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Assembling the Pizza

Spoon the cooked rice evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Top it with the sliced bell peppers and mixed seafood. Sprinkle smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the toppings. Finish off by generously sprinkling grated Manchego cheese on top.

Step 5: Baking the Pizza

Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for around 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese has melted and bubbled. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serving

Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Drizzle some olive oil over the top for added flavor. Slice it into wedges and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.

Conclusion

Spanish Paella Pizza is an exciting twist on two classic dishes that will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Spain. The combination of aromatic saffron rice, succulent seafood, and gooey melted cheese on a crispy pizza crust is a true delight. Try this recipe for your next gathering or simply to indulge in a unique and delicious meal at home.