Paella is such an easy and beautiful dish to present when serving multiple people. One key ingredient is saffron. Add the piping hot paella to a bed of baby spinach and a squeeze of lemon to finish. In terms of the seafood, you can use whatever mix you prefer! You can use fresh prawns or can add squid rings or mussels as well. If you are not a fan of seafood then you can use chicken instead. Enjoy!

Ingredients

1. Olive oil
2. Quinoa
3. Rice
4. Onion, chopped
5. Garlic, minced
6. Red bell pepper, chopped
7. Yellow bell pepper, chopped
8. Tomato, chopped
9. Smoked paprika
10. Ground turmeric
11. Saffron (soaked in water)
12. Vegetable broth
13. Salt and pepper
14. Green beans
15. Artichoke hearts (optional)
16. Frozen peas
17. Fresh parsley, chopped
18. Lemon wedges

How to Make Quinoa and Rice Paella

1. In a large skillet or paella pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the quinoa and rice, stirring occasionally, and toast for about 3-4 minutes until they become slightly golden.

2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan, cooking until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the red and yellow bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes.

3. Add the chopped tomato, smoked paprika, ground turmeric, and the saffron with its soaking water. Stir everything well to combine, letting the flavors meld for 2 minutes.

4. Pour in the vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

5. Add the green beans, artichoke hearts (if using), and frozen peas to the pan. Stir gently, then cover again and cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the rice and quinoa are tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

6. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for added zest.

How This Recipe Benefits Your Thyroid

1. Olive Oil

Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, supporting the thyroid gland’s overall function. The healthy fats also aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A, essential for thyroid hormone production.

2. Quinoa and Rice

Combining quinoa and rice can benefit thyroid health by providing essential nutrients like complete proteins, selenium, and iron, which support thyroid hormone production and protect the gland from oxidative stress. Both are naturally gluten-free and low in goitrogens, making them safe for those with thyroid issues. While not iodine-rich, they pair well with iodine-rich foods like fish or seaweed for a balanced, thyroid-friendly meal.

3. Onion

Onions are rich in antioxidants and sulfur compounds, which help support detoxification and reduce inflammation. These properties can help alleviate the burden of autoimmune thyroid conditions and protect the thyroid from oxidative damage.

4. Garlic

Garlic contains sulfur compounds, which help improve immune function and reduce inflammation, both of which are important for thyroid health. It also supports detoxification, helping to rid the body of toxins that could affect thyroid function.

5. Red and Yellow Bell Peppers

These peppers are high in vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps support the immune system and reduce oxidative stress. This can be especially helpful for individuals with thyroid-related autoimmune disorders.

6. Tomato

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that can help protect the thyroid from oxidative damage. They also contain potassium, which supports fluid balance and hormone regulation.

7. Smoked Paprika

Smoked paprika contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can support the thyroid by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

8. Ground Turmeric

Turmeric, particularly its active compound curcumin, is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may help reduce inflammation in the thyroid and support overall immune function, which is critical for thyroid health.

9. Saffron

Saffron, soaked in water, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help protect the thyroid gland from oxidative stress and support overall hormonal balance.

10. Vegetable Broth

Vegetable broth is a hydrating base that contains vitamins and minerals that support thyroid health. It helps in the digestion of nutrients, ensuring they are efficiently absorbed by the body.

11. Salt and Pepper

While moderate salt is essential for electrolyte balance and thyroid function, it’s important to use quality salt, like sea salt. Pepper helps improve the absorption of nutrients, including those beneficial for thyroid health.

12. Green Beans

Green beans are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They support digestion and help maintain a healthy weight, which is important for thyroid function.

13. Artichoke Hearts 

Artichokes are a good source of antioxidants and fiber, which help reduce inflammation and support digestive health, both of which are important for maintaining healthy thyroid function.

14. Frozen Peas

Peas are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help protect the thyroid from oxidative stress. They also contain plant-based protein, which is essential for thyroid hormone synthesis.

15. Fresh Parsley

Parsley is rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like iron and magnesium, all of which are beneficial for thyroid health. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help reduce thyroid-related inflammation.

16. Lemon Wedges

Lemon is a good source of vitamin C, which helps reduce inflammation and supports the immune system. A healthy immune system is crucial for individuals with thyroid autoimmune disorders. It also aids in digestion, ensuring proper nutrient absorption.

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Notes and information

I use organic ingredients as much as possible. This way, I can get beneficial nutrients and avoid harmful pesticides, hormones, and chemicals that affect our thyroid and health in general.