20 Saffron Recipes I Make When I Want Something Special

This site runs ads and generates income from affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy.

Saffron is the golden spice that instantly transforms a dish into something unforgettable. These 20 saffron recipes highlight its delicate flavor and warm color in everything from cozy rice dishes to aromatic stews and even sweet treats. Whether you’re cooking a weeknight dinner or celebrating something special, saffron has the power to make it memorable, and this roundup shows you all the delicious ways to use it.

Easy Saffron Potato Casserole

A close up image of yellow Saffron Potato Casserole — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

Elevate your potato game with this Easy Saffron Potato Casserole! This dish features layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, saffron-infused sauce, making it a comforting and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for holidays or any special occasion. Impress your guests with this simple yet elegant recipe!
Get the Recipe: Easy Saffron Potato Casserole

One Pot Chicken & Chorizo Paella

a close up image of vibrant chicken chorizo rice in a white dish. — One Pot Chicken & Chorizo Paella

This classic paella recipe transports you to the heart of Spain. Succulent chicken, savory chorizo, and vibrant rice come together in one pot for a delicious and authentic experience.

Get The Recipe: One Pot Chicken & Chorizo Paella

Lucia Buns

Image Credit: Allie Roomberg/Baking A Moment

Originating from a centuries-old Scandinavian tradition, these delectable Lucia buns are soft, slightly sweet, and infused with the delicate aroma of saffron. Enjoy them as a delightful accompaniment to a steaming cup of coffee for a truly satisfying treat!

Get The Recipe: Lucia Buns

Weeknight Paella

A plate of bright yellow saffron rice topped with chorizo and shrimp. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Seafood and sausage collide in this Easy Paella recipe! This flavorful one-pot dish features succulent shrimp and savory chorizo, making it a protein-packed and convenient meal for the whole family.

Get The Recipe: Weeknight Paella

Pumpkin Shrimp Bisque

A creamy orange bisque infused with saffron, garnished with succulent shrimp, pumpkin seeds, and finely chopped basil. A silver spoon rests on the edge of the bowl, and a piece of bread is partially visible in the background. — Image Credit: Chew Out Loud

This Pumpkin Shrimp Bisque is so tasty, smooth, and full of seasonal flavors. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up!

Get The Recipe: Pumpkin Shrimp Bisque

Moroccan Chicken

This Moroccan Chicken recipe is packed with flavor! The aromatic dish has many layers of flavor and is perfect served over couscous. It’s a filling and luxurious meal that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan Chicken

Shrimp Risotto

Yellow Risotto with shrimp and asparagus — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Shrimp Risotto recipe is not only delicious but surprisingly quick to make! Using a no-stir method, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, combining the delicate flavors of shrimp, asparagus, and saffron. It’s perfect for a family-friendly dinner or an elegant meal any time of year.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Risotto

Chicken and Yellow Rice

Looking for a quick and easy meal? This Chicken and Yellow Rice recipe is a simple one-pot dish that’s perfect for using leftover chicken. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s ready in under an hour!
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Yellow Rice

Easy Saffron Risotto

A close up image of saffron risotto — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Easy Saffron Risotto recipe delivers a restaurant-quality dish in under 30 minutes! Using simple ingredients, you’ll create a luxurious and flavorful meal with a vibrant color and rich taste. This is a perfect dish for a quick yet impressive dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Saffron Risotto

Low Fat Creamy Cauliflower Saffron Soup

Looking for a light yet satisfying soup? This Low Fat Creamy Cauliflower Saffron Soup delivers a delicate flavor and velvety texture. Made with simple ingredients like cauliflower, saffron, and a touch of parsley, it’s a comforting and healthy meal.
Get the Recipe: Low Fat Creamy Cauliflower Saffron Soup

Creamy Saffron Pasta

This Creamy Saffron Pasta is a decadent dish that’s quick and easy enough for a weeknight meal but fancy enough for a dinner party. The luxurious sauce is made with saffron, garlic, cream and parmesan cheese. Serve over your favorite pasta for a comforting and elegant meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Saffron Pasta

Easy One Pot Scallops & Chorizo Paella

Craving Mediterranean flavors but short on time? This Easy One Pot Scallops & Chorizo Paella is your answer! Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe brings together the delicious combination of seafood and chorizo for a quick and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy One Pot Scallops & Chorizo Paella

Skillet Grilled Seafood and Chorizo Paella.

This Skillet Grilled Seafood and Chorizo Paella recipe is simple, delicious, and only dirties one dish! Featuring chicken, chorizo, and fresh seafood, this dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Find the recipe at halfbakedharvest.com.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Grilled Seafood and Chorizo Paella.

Mixed Spanish Paella

This Mixed Spanish Paella recipe is packed with flavor and customizable with your favorite proteins! Made with bomba rice, veggies, and spices, this dish is perfect for a satisfying dinner. Add seafood, chicken, or both for a delicious and authentic Spanish experience.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Spanish Paella

Lemony Lentil Soup

Red lentil soup in pot — Photo credit: Gimme Some Oven

This Lemony Lentil Soup is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s easy to make in your Instant Pot, Crock-Pot, or on the stovetop. Packed with red lentils, corn, and a zesty lemon flavor, this soup is a delicious and healthy option for any day of the week. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free!
Get the Recipe: Lemony Lentil Soup

Vegetable Paella

This simple, vegetarian Vegetable Paella recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. It’s packed with flavor and is both vegan and gluten-free! This dish is a delicious way to enjoy a taste of Spain.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Paella

Saffron Chicken

This Saffron Chicken recipe brings a touch of elegance to your weeknight dinners with its subtle floral flavor. Tender chicken pieces are infused with saffron, yogurt, garlic, and lemon for a quick and flavorful meal that’s also gluten-free. This Persian-inspired dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Get the Recipe: Saffron Chicken

Instant Pot Arroz Con Pollo

This Instant Pot Arroz con Pollo is a flavorful and easy one-pot meal! Infused with saffron and smoked paprika, this Spanish-inspired chicken and rice dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Top with your favorite garnishes like lime wedges, avocado, or fresh parsley.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Arroz Con Pollo

Spanish Seafood Stew with Chorizo and Chickpeas

A simple delicious recipe for Spanish Seafood Stew with Garbanzo beans and Chorizo ( or soy Chorizo) served over Jasmine infused rice. | www.feastingathome.com — Photo credit: Feasting at Home

This Spanish Seafood Stew is packed with flavor from chorizo, chickpeas, and a medley of fresh seafood. Served over saffron-infused rice, this one-pot meal is perfect for a comforting and healthy dinner. It’s easily customizable and can be made gluten-free and low-carb.
Get the Recipe: Spanish Seafood Stew with Chorizo and Chickpeas

Chickpea & Saffron Stew

This Chickpea & Saffron Stew is a hearty and flavorful vegan option for a cozy dinner. Made with smoky tomatoes, spinach, and fragrant spices, this gluten-free soup is sure to warm you up on a chilly evening. It’s also packed with plant-based protein from the chickpeas!
Get the Recipe: Chickpea & Saffron Stew