Paella Salad(Cold)
A refreshing cold salad combining shrimp, chicken, rice, and vegetables seasoned with vibrant flavors, perfect for light summer meals or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook shrimp in 1 1/2 cups water for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Chill and devein the cooked shrimp.
- Cook rice according to package instructions, omitting butter.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, cooked and chopped chicken breast, peeled and chopped tomato, thawed English peas, sliced celery, minced onion, and drained diced pimento.
- Add the cooked shrimp to the mixture and toss gently.
- Chill the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a homemade seafood stock instead of water when cooking the shrimp. If you're short on time, pre-cooked shrimp can be used as a substitution. To enhance the dish, incorporate herbs like parsley or cilantro, which complement Mediterranean recipes beautifully. Opt for brown rice for a healthier twist, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
This Paella Salad is perfect for summer picnics or potlucks. Serve it alongside a light Garlic Soup With Greens or as part of a buffet spread with other chicken recipes. For a complete meal, pair it with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the salad in the microwave or enjoy it cold as a refreshing meal. If the salad seems dry after storage, add a splash of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice to revive its flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Paella Salad(Cold) contains roughly 184 calories, with 9g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 653mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?
Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with other seafood like scallops or crab, or even use additional chicken or cooked sausage for a heartier dish. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the protein you choose to ensure everything is cooked properly.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this Paella Salad can be gluten-free if you ensure that the yellow rice mix you use is labeled as such. Many brands offer gluten-free options, which are perfect for those with gluten sensitivities. Always check the labels to confirm.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this Paella Salad vegetarian, simply omit the shrimp and chicken. You can add more vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini, and consider using a vegetable broth to cook the rice for added flavor. Chickpeas can also be a great protein substitute.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).