Fideuà
Platos principales • España
Acerca de Fideuà
Catalan noodle paella with seafood and allioli
How to Make Fideuà (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Fideuà is a celebrated dish from the Valencian coast of Spain, renowned for its vibrant flavors and unique approach to seafood and noodles. Traditionally prepared in a wide, shallow paella pan, Fideuà swaps out rice for short, thin noodles called 'fideos', creating a lighter and more delicate texture. The dish is deeply rooted in Spain’s maritime culture, originating from the town of Gandía where fishermen sought a quick yet hearty meal using their catch. Spanish Fideuà stands out for its rich saffron-infused broth, tender seafood, and perfectly toasted noodles, making it a beloved lunch option across Spain. Its taste is a harmonious blend of briny seafood, smoky paprika, and aromatic herbs, offering an authentic Mediterranean experience on your plate. Choosing Fideuà for your lunch not only connects you with Spanish culinary traditions but also offers a balanced meal that is lighter than paella and packed with nutritious seafood. The combination of lean shellfish, aromatic vegetables, and olive oil ensures a satisfying yet health-conscious dish. Fideuà is perfect for sharing, inviting friends and family to gather around the pan and enjoy a taste of Spain’s coastal heritage. Whether you’re new to Spanish cuisine or seeking a healthy lunch alternative, Fideuà is an excellent choice for both flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients(for 1 medium plate (about 300g))
- 120g Fideos (short, thin noodles) (Spanish noodle type)
- 100g Prawns (peeled and deveined)
- 80g Squid (cleaned and sliced)
- 500ml Fish stock (preferably homemade)
- 1 small Tomato (finely grated)
- 1/2 Red bell pepper (diced)
- 1.5 tbsp Olive oil (extra virgin)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1/2 tsp Paprika (Spanish smoked (pimentón))
- a pinch Saffron (threads, optional but traditional) - optional
- 1 tbsp Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- to taste Salt
- 2 Lemon wedges (for serving) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced bell pepper, sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
4 minutes
Avoid burning garlic to preserve its delicate flavor.
- 2
Add grated tomato and paprika to the pan. Cook for another 4 minutes, stirring often, until tomato is thickened and blended with the vegetables.
4 minutes
Use ripe tomatoes for natural sweetness.
- 3
Add squid and prawns. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until seafood is just opaque. Season lightly with salt.
3 minutes
Do not overcook seafood, as it will finish cooking with the noodles.
- 4
Stir in the fideos and toast for 2 minutes, ensuring noodles are well coated with the sofrito.
2 minutes
Toasting noodles enhances their flavor and prevents sogginess.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Fideuà recipe emphasizes balanced nutrition by using seafood for protein, olive oil for good fats, and vegetables for vitamins and minerals. Compared to traditional paella, it uses less oil and avoids heavy meats, making it lighter on calories and easier to digest. The inclusion of whole ingredients and minimal processing ensures a meal rich in nutrients and flavor, perfect for those seeking a wholesome lunch. Its moderate carb content and lean protein make it suitable for calorie-conscious individuals.
Fideuà is rich in lean proteins from prawns and squid, providing essential amino acids for muscle repair and maintenance. Olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, which support heart health. The use of vegetables like tomato and bell pepper adds vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. Fideos, made from wheat, supply complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. Saffron and paprika contain beneficial plant compounds that promote anti-inflammatory effects. This dish is low in saturated fat and can be easily adapted to meet various dietary needs.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use authentic Spanish fideos for the best texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Homemade fish stock intensifies the flavor and keeps sodium low.
- 💡Tip 3: Add saffron only at the end to preserve its aroma.
Storage & Serving
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of fish stock to prevent drying out. Avoid freezing, as noodles can become mushy.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 185.0 kcal |
| Protein | 10.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24.0 g |
| Total Fat | 6.0 g |
| Fiber | 1.0 g |