Spanish-Inspired Chickpea Paella
This vibrant Spanish-Inspired Chickpea Paella is a one-pot, plant-based dinner packed with bold Mediterranean flavors, saffron-infused rice, hearty chickpeas, and colorful veggies. Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and perfect for clean eating or meal prep! 🌱🥘✨
Equipment
- Large deep skillet or paella pan: To cook the paella evenly and help create the traditional socarrat (crispy bottom layer). A wide, shallow pan works best.
- Cutting board: For prepping all your veggies and herbs.
- Sharp knife: To chop onions, garlic, peppers, and tomatoes with precision.
- Garlic press (optional): Makes mincing garlic quick and easy.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurement of rice, broth, spices, and lemon juice.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: To sauté vegetables and gently mix ingredients without damaging your pan.
- Lid for the pan: Essential for covering the paella during the final cooking phase to trap steam and help the rice finish cooking.
- Citrus juicer (optional): To squeeze fresh lemon juice easily and efficiently.
- Ladle or large serving spoon: For dishing out generous servings of your finished paella.
Ingredients
🌾 Base Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion diced
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 red bell pepper chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 ½ cups arborio or short-grain rice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional for heat
- Pinch of saffron threads or ½ tsp saffron powder
- Salt + black pepper to taste
- 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 15-oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Lemon wedges for serving
🌿 Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Lemon zest
- Olives or artichoke hearts for extra Mediterranean flair!
Instructions
- Sauté your aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Build your flavor base
- Add the chopped bell peppers and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, turmeric, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to coat everything in the spices.
- Toast the rice
- Add the rice and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring to coat it in the oil and spices. This helps deepen the flavor and prevents mushiness later.
- Add broth + saffron
- Pour in the veggie broth and saffron. Give it a gentle stir, then spread everything evenly in the pan. DO NOT stir again after this step! Let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.
- Add chickpeas + peas
- Gently spoon the chickpeas and peas over the rice without stirring. Cover the pan and reduce heat to low. Simmer for another 10–12 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Finish with lemon
- Drizzle lemon juice over the finished paella. Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon zest, and optional toppings like olives or artichokes.
- Serve & enjoy!
- Scoop generous portions onto plates and serve with lemon wedges. Best enjoyed warm and shared with people you love ❤️
Notes
🕒 Can I Make This Ahead?
Absolutely! This paella is ideal for prepping in advance. In fact, the flavors often deepen and improve after resting for a few hours or overnight. Here’s how to do it:- Same Day Prep: Make the paella in the morning, let it cool, and store it covered at room temperature for up to 2 hours before serving.
- Next Day Prep: Cook it fully, cool it completely, and refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat just before serving with a splash of broth to revive moisture.
💡 Pro Tip: If you're serving guests, make the paella ahead and reheat it in the same pan for that “fresh off the stove” feel!
🧊 How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerate:Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Use glass containers to keep flavors intact and avoid staining from turmeric or tomato. Freeze:
Yes, this paella freezes beautifully! Spoon it into freezer-safe containers or reusable silicone bags, leaving room for expansion. Label with the date and freeze for up to 1 month.
🔥 How to Reheat Without Drying It Out
- Stovetop: Add a splash of vegetable broth or water to a nonstick pan. Heat gently over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely with a damp paper towel, and microwave in 60-second intervals until hot.
- Oven (for large batches): Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place paella in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 15–20 minutes.
✨ Add a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh parsley after reheating to refresh the flavors!