5 ways paprika can elevate your everyday cooking
What's the story
Paprika, a spice made from ground sweet or hot peppers, is a staple in many kitchens. Its vibrant color and mild flavor make it an ideal addition to vegetarian dishes. Here are five paprika recipes that will add a delightful twist to your meals. From soups to stews, these recipes highlight the versatility of paprika in enhancing taste and color without overpowering other ingredients.
Dish 1
Paprika-infused vegetable stew
A hearty vegetable stew can be elevated with the addition of paprika. Start by sauteing onions, garlic, and bell peppers in olive oil until soft. Add diced tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, and green beans. Sprinkle generously with sweet paprika and simmer until the vegetables are tender. The spice adds depth to the stew while keeping it light and healthy.
Dish 2
Creamy paprika pasta sauce
For a creamy pasta sauce with a hint of spice, cook some garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes and let simmer for a few minutes before stirring in heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor. Toss this sauce with your favorite pasta for a satisfying meal that's both rich and flavorful.
Dish 3
Spicy paprika roasted chickpeas
Roasted chickpeas make for a crunchy snack or salad topping when spiced right. Toss canned chickpeas with olive oil, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper (optional), and smoked paprika before roasting them in the oven at 200 degrees Celsius until crispy. These chickpeas pack protein and a punch of flavor from the spice blend.
Dish 4
Paprika potato wedges
Potato wedges get an upgrade with paprika seasoning. Cut potatoes into wedges and coat them with olive oil mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Bake at 220 degrees Celsius until golden brown on the outside but soft inside—perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Dish 5
Zesty paprika hummus dip
Hummus takes on new life when you add some zest by using this spice blend. Blend canned chickpeas, tahini paste, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin powder, salt, and smoked variety together until smooth. Then, fold through some finely chopped parsley leaves before serving alongside pita bread slices or fresh vegetable sticks.