Discover the Delights of Low-Carb Seafood Paella with Cauliflower Rice
Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Spain without ever leaving your kitchen. This Low-Carb Seafood Paella with Cauliflower Rice is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that aligns perfectly with the keto lifestyle. By swapping traditional rice for nutrient-rich cauliflower, you’ll savor every bite of this classic Spanish meal guilt-free. It’s a feast for the senses that’s both nourishing and delightfully low in carbohydrates.
Whether you’re a seasoned keto dieter or simply looking for a healthier alternative to rice, this paella promises a rich tapestry of tastes and textures. With succulent seafood, aromatic spices, and the subtle crunch of cauliflower, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your low-carb repertoire.
The Origins and Keto Benefits of This Seafood Delight
Paella, a beloved Spanish dish, is traditionally made with rice, saffron, and a medley of meats and seafood. However, in this keto-friendly version, we’ve transformed the classic by using cauliflower as a rice substitute, slashing the carb count while keeping all the robust flavors intact. Cauliflower rice is not only low in carbs but also high in fiber, vitamins C, K, and B6, and potassium, making it an excellent choice for maintaining ketosis.
The selection of seafood in this dish isn’t just for an authentic taste; it’s also packed with high-quality protein and essential omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart health and cognitive function. By incorporating shrimp, scallops, and mussels, you’re getting a variety of textures and flavors, as well as a host of nutritional benefits.
Another star ingredient is the extra virgin olive oil, a staple in Mediterranean diets known for its heart-healthy fats. The inclusion of smoked paprika and saffron not only adds depth to the dish but also introduces antioxidants that combat inflammation.
Every ingredient in this Low-Carb Seafood Paella with Cauliflower Rice has been carefully chosen to create a harmonious balance between taste and nutritional value, ensuring that those on a keto diet can indulge without compromise.
Mastering the Method for Perfect Keto Paella
Starting with the Cauliflower Rice: Achieving the perfect texture for cauliflower rice is crucial. Pulse the florets in a food processor until they resemble rice grains, but be careful not to over-process, as this can lead to a mushy texture when cooked.
Sautéing Vegetables: The foundation of any great paella is the sofrito, a sauté of onions, garlic, and peppers. Cook these until they’re just softened to release their natural sweetness and provide a base for the other flavors to build upon.
Seafood Tips: When adding the shrimp and scallops, ensure they’re not overcrowded in the pan. This allows them to sear nicely, giving them a golden edge and locking in the juices. For the mussels, check for any that remain closed after cooking and discard them, as they might not be safe to eat.
As the dish simmers, keep a close eye on the cauliflower rice. It should be tender but still hold its shape. Stirring occasionally will prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. By following these tips, you’ll elevate your paella to restaurant-quality standards.
Variations to Spice Up Your Paella
Chicken and Chorizo Keto Paella
For a meatier twist, replace some of the seafood with diced chicken thighs and slices of keto-friendly chorizo. The chicken adds protein, while the chorizo brings a smoky, spicy flavor that complements the cauliflower rice beautifully.
Vegetarian Keto Paella
Swap out the seafood for a variety of low-carb vegetables like artichoke hearts, green beans, and bell peppers. This not only caters to vegetarians but also adds an extra serving of fiber and antioxidants to your meal.
Spicy Keto Paella
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sofrito. This will infuse the dish with a warm, spicy kick that’s sure to please the palate.
Substitutions for a Customizable Keto Experience
Not everyone has access to the same ingredients, or you may have dietary restrictions that require substitutions. Here are some keto-friendly swaps that keep the spirit of the dish intact:
Seafood Substitutions: If you can’t find fresh seafood, frozen varieties can work just as well. Just ensure they’re fully thawed and patted dry to avoid adding excess moisture to the dish.
Tomato Alternatives: For those who prefer a less tomato-heavy paella, consider using a few tablespoons of tomato paste diluted in broth for a more concentrated flavor without the bulk.
Broth Variations: While chicken broth is traditional, using vegetable or seafood broth can add a different dimension of flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this paella ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the seafood, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat gently and add the seafood to cook through.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the seafood.
Is this dish spicy? The recipe as written is not particularly spicy, but you can adjust the heat level to your preference by adding more or less smoked paprika and red pepper flakes.
Can I use frozen cauliflower rice? Absolutely. Frozen cauliflower rice is a convenient option that reduces prep time. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as it may cook faster than fresh.
What can I use instead of saffron? While saffron provides a unique flavor and color, turmeric can be a more affordable substitute that also offers health benefits. Use it sparingly, as it has a stronger taste.

Low-Carb Seafood Paella with Cauliflower Rice
Equipment
- Large skillet or paella pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower about 2 pounds/900g, riced
- 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
- ½ pound scallops
- ½ pound mussels cleaned and debearded
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion about 150g, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 red bell pepper about 120g, sliced
- ½ cup chicken broth preferably low-sodium
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 ounces/411g, drained
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon saffron threads
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare Cauliflower Rice: Wash and dry the cauliflower head. Cut into florets and pulse in a food processor until it reaches a rice-like texture. Set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet or paella pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent—about 5 minutes. Add the red bell pepper and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
- Cook Seafood: Season the shrimp and scallops with salt and pepper. Push the vegetables to the side of the pan and add the seafood. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and the scallops are slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the seafood and set it aside.
- Simmer Tomatoes and Spices: Add the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, and saffron to the pan. Stir to combine with the vegetables and cook for 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Combine with Cauliflower Rice: Stir in the cauliflower rice, mixing well with the tomato and spice mixture. Cover and let simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy.
- Add Back Seafood: Return the cooked seafood to the pan, adding the mussels on top. Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the mussels have opened. Discard any that do not open.
- Final Touches: Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side.