A delicious plant based vegetable paella packed with colorful veggies, authentic Spanish flavors, and a vegan twist. This easy one pan recipe is healthy, hearty, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. A classic Spanish rice dish made 100% vegan.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

1 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion finely diced

2 celery stalks finely diced

1 medium carrot finely diced

2 thyme springs

1 bay leaf

2 garlic cloves

1 dsp tomato puree

2 tsp paprika

1 red pepper diced

250g paella rice

pinch of saffron

700ml vegetable stock

150g tomato roughly chopped

100g peas

Salt and pepper

Method -

Fry the onion, celery and carrot in olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Cook on a medium heat for 10 minutes stirring frequently.

Add the thyme, bay leaf and garlic and cook for 2 minutes.

Next add the tomato puree, paprika and red pepper and cook for a further 2 minutes.

Now add the rice and stir into the vegetables.

Add the saffron and vegetable stock and cook for 20 minutes.

Finally add the peas and cook for last 5 minutes and serve.

This plant based vegetable paella brings all the vibrant colors and bold flavors of traditional Spanish paella in a wholesome vegan way. Made with saffron-infused rice, seasonal vegetables, and simple pantry spices, it’s both nourishing and satisfying. Perfect for family dinners, entertaining friends, or meal prepping, this dish proves that plant based cooking can be full of depth and excitement. Serve it with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for the ultimate finishing touch. Whether you’re new to paella or looking for a lighter twist on a Spanish classic, this vegan paella will quickly become a favorite at your table.