Paella is a traditional Spanish dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a rice-based dish that is often prepared with a variety of ingredients, including chicken, seafood, vegetables, and saffron. Paella is a meal on its own, but it tastes even better when accompanied by the right sides and drinks. In this article, we’ll explore the best options to complement your paella and make your Spanish dinner party a success.
The Best Wines to Pair With Paella
When it comes to pairing wine with paella, there are some general rules to follow. Traditionally, Spanish red wines such as Tempranillo or Garnacha are great choices. However, other dry red wines or dry whites can enhance the dish as well. White wines pair well with seafood paella or vegetable paella. You can also try pairing sparkling wine or rosé with your paella for a refreshing option. Don’t forget, you can also use the wine as an ingredient in the paella.
Another great option for pairing with paella is a light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais. These wines have a lower tannin content which makes them a great match for the flavors in paella. Additionally, if you prefer a sweeter wine, a Riesling or Gewürztraminer can complement the spiciness of the dish.
It’s important to note that the type of paella you are serving can also influence the wine pairing. For example, if you are serving a meat-based paella, a full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah can be a great choice. On the other hand, if you are serving a vegetarian paella, a light-bodied white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can be a better match.
Tapas That Complement Paella Perfectly
Tapas are a popular Spanish appetizer that can be served before paella with some drinks. There are plenty of options to choose from, but a simple and classic choice is a plate of Manchego cheese, olives, and jamón serrano. Another option is a plate of Spanish chorizo or grilled vegetables, which complement the flavors of the paella without overpowering them.
For those who prefer seafood, a plate of gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp) or pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus) can be a great choice. These tapas are also commonly found in Spanish restaurants and are known for their bold flavors that pair well with the rich and savory taste of paella. Additionally, a refreshing salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, and onions with a light vinaigrette dressing can provide a nice contrast to the heavier paella dish.
The Top Vegetables to Serve With Paella
Vegetables are a perfect complement to paella. Some of the best vegetables to serve with paella include green beans, artichokes, and roasted red peppers. They provide a nice contrast to the rice and add texture and flavor. You can also add fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to complement the saffron in the paella.
In addition to the aforementioned vegetables, you can also consider adding peas, carrots, and tomatoes to your paella. These vegetables not only add color to the dish but also provide a sweet and savory flavor that complements the rice and seafood or meat.
If you want to add a bit of heat to your paella, you can include some spicy peppers, such as jalapenos or serranos. These peppers add a kick of flavor that pairs well with the smoky and savory taste of the paella.
Seafood Sides That Enhance the Flavor of Paella
If you’re making seafood paella, some great seafood sides to serve include grilled shrimp, mussels in garlic sauce, or even a simple ceviche. These dishes add more seafood flavor and provide a great contrast in texture to the rice.
Another great seafood side to serve with paella is a seafood salad. This can include a mix of cooked and raw seafood, such as calamari, octopus, shrimp, and scallops, tossed with a light dressing of olive oil and lemon juice. The freshness of the seafood and the tanginess of the dressing complement the rich flavors of the paella.
If you’re looking for a non-seafood side to serve with your paella, consider a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing helps to cut through the richness of the rice and seafood, while the fresh greens provide a refreshing contrast in texture. You can also add some sliced avocado or roasted red peppers to the salad for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Make a Flavorful Salad to Accompany Paella
A refreshing salad is an excellent complement to a heavy dish such as paella. A great salad option is a Spanish-inspired salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, olives, and a vinaigrette made of olive oil and sherry vinegar. You can also make a Caesar salad or a beet salad with goat cheese and nuts.
Another great option for a salad to accompany paella is a citrus salad. This salad is made with mixed greens, sliced oranges, grapefruit, and avocado. The dressing is made with olive oil, honey, and lime juice. The sweetness of the citrus pairs well with the savory flavors of the paella. You can also add some sliced almonds or crumbled feta cheese for extra texture and flavor.
The Best Spanish Cheeses to Enjoy With Paella
Spain is famous for its cheese, and they make a great addition to a paella meal. Some great Spanish cheese options include Manchego, Idiazabal, and Mahón cheese. These cheeses can be sliced, cubed, or even crumbled over the top of the paella.
In addition to these classic Spanish cheeses, there are also some lesser-known varieties that are worth trying. For example, Tetilla cheese from Galicia has a mild, buttery flavor that pairs well with seafood paella. Another option is Cabrales cheese from Asturias, which has a strong, tangy flavor that can add a bold kick to the dish. No matter which cheese you choose, be sure to serve it at room temperature to bring out its full flavor.
Fresh Bread and Dips That Go Well With Paella
Crusty bread is perfect to soak up all the flavorful broth in the paella. It’s also great to enjoy with some dips such as hummus, Baba ghanoush, aioli or romescu sauce, which are all popular Spanish dips. These dips provide a great accompaniment to the paella.
Another great dip to try with paella is salsa verde, a tangy and herbaceous sauce made with parsley, garlic, capers, and olive oil. This sauce adds a bright and fresh flavor to the dish and complements the seafood and vegetables in the paella. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different dips and breads to find your perfect pairing with this classic Spanish dish.
Desserts That Perfectly Conclude Your Paella Meal
After finishing a savory paella, it’s always good to end the meal with something sweet. Some classic dessert options include churros with hot chocolate, flan, or crema Catalana. These desserts will leave you feeling satisfied and wanting a little bit more.
Another popular dessert option to consider is Tarta de Santiago, a traditional almond cake from the Galicia region of Spain. This cake is made with ground almonds, sugar, eggs, and lemon zest, and is often served with a dusting of powdered sugar on top. It’s a delicious and simple dessert that pairs well with the rich flavors of paella.
If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, try a fruit salad with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This refreshing dessert is a great way to cleanse your palate after a hearty paella meal. You can use a variety of fruits, such as strawberries, kiwi, pineapple, and mango, to create a colorful and flavorful dish.
A Guide to Hosting a Spanish-Themed Dinner Party with Paella as the Star Dish
Hosting a Spanish-themed dinner party can be fun and easy with a little bit of planning. The star dish, of course, is the paella with all the suggested sides and drinks we’ve mentioned above. To add a bit of decoration, you can use Spanish-style plates, clay bowls or colorful sangria jugs. Don’t forget to have some Spanish music in the background to set the mood. With all these tips, you’ll be sure to throw a fantastic and delicious Spanish-themed dinner party.
In conclusion, the best way to enjoy paella is to pair it with the right sides and drinks. Whether it’s wine, tapas, vegetables, seafood, salad, cheese, dips, or desserts, there are plenty of options to choose from to complement the dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try something new, as you may discover a new favorite combination that you never knew existed. Enjoy!
One fun activity to add to your Spanish-themed dinner party is to have a flamenco dance lesson. Hire a professional dancer or find a tutorial online to teach your guests some basic flamenco moves. This will not only add to the festive atmosphere but also provide a fun and interactive experience for everyone. Don’t forget to take some photos and videos to capture the memories!