Give turkey a tasty Spanish twist

You may just happen to have some cooked turkey around, and be looking for an easy way to give it a new identity. Try this one: a low-fat recipe that gives a tasty new twist to the classic Spanish paella, with chorizo, saffron and smoked paprika for authentic flavor and color.

The recipe is from the November issue of Cooking Light magazine, and besides being low in fat, it will take about 42 minutes of your time to put it on the table, by the magazine's estimate. They suggest an orange, avocado and olive salad to complement the paella, and for a dessert that's smoothly compatible with the gusto espanol, a low-fat dulce de leche ice cream.

Ingredient tips: Use Spanish paprika for this recipe, since regular paprika won't give you the same rich, smoky flavor. Chorizo is the Spanish sausage that can be fiery or mild but is always well seasoned. Hot Italian sausage is a good substitute if that's more convenient.

Saffron is sold in tiny packages. While it's a little expensive, a few threads go a long way. Saffron and smoked Spanish paprika can be found in the spice aisle of gourmet markets, or are available online at www.penzeys.com or www.tienda.com.

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TURKEY-SAUSAGE PAELLA

(Start to finish 42 minutes)

2 3/4 cups fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth

1/4 teaspoon saffron threads

Cooking spray

2 ounces Spanish chorizo sausage

1/2 cup chopped onion

1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper

3 garlic cloves, minced

3/4 cup uncooked Arborio rice

1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth

1/2 teaspoon smoked Spanish paprika

14 1/2-ounce can petite diced tomatoes, drained

2 cups shredded cooked turkey breast (about 8 ounces)

1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Combine broth and saffron in a small saucepan over low heat; bring to a simmer. Remove from heat.