Spanish culture has a rich and varied food scene. Cooking is part of how they socialize and bond with each other, which is evident from their many large sharing dishes.
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Tapas is another common way of eating food in Spain which involves a number of small sharing plates which are ordered for the table and can be found at every corner.
Spanish cuisine has something for everyone, especially if you don’t mind a bit of spice. Perhaps you want to relive that magical Spanish holiday or are looking to expand your culinary skills…
Here we have found 27 of the best and most authentic Spanish dishes for you to try, from breakfast to dessert we’ve got it all covered.
1. Paella
Paella is probably the dish most associated with Spain. Paella originated in Valencia and contained chicken and either pork ribs (see also ‘18 Tasty Side Dishes To Serve With BBQ Ribs‘) or rabbit with spices and vegetables.
Despite what you might think, seafood was introduced to the dish much more recently. This is a fantastic sharing dish, full of flavor and can be served straight out of the pan around the table.
We’ve opted for a traditional Valencian recipe which does include rabbit however this is completely optional. If you don’t already own a paella pan, using your largest, flattest pan will produce the best results.
For the most authentic feel, you can even go one step further and cook over an open flame.
2.Tortilla Espanola
A tortilla or a Spanish omelette is made with potatoes, onions and eggs. Here, the recipe takes inspiration from Catalonia and is made with five simple ingredients for an authentic taste.
Tortillas are simple, yet tasty food that can be adapted to suit the individual.
You can use pretty much anything in a tortilla. The most common tortilla fillings include spinach, bacon and tuna.
They can be eaten on their own as a snack or as part of a tapas spread which can be dipped in a variety of delicious sauces from other plates.
3. Pímentos De Padrón
Simple and full of flavor, Padron peppers are a welcome addition to any dinner table. These small peppers come from Northwestern Spain and are traditionally served in tapas bars.
Deep fried in oil, their skin blisters and they soften and seasoned with sea salt flakes. Some peppers are hot and some aren’t; you can’t guarantee which you’ll get.
4. Patatas Bravas
Another tapas essential is patatas bravas, which are potatoes served in a spicy sauce. The sauce is the main component of the dish containing onion, tomatoes, garlic, paprika and sugar.
You can adjust the level of heat easily by adding more or less paprika or any other spice you desire. Served with aioli, this counteracts the heat from the bravas sauce.
5. Pan Con Tomate
Pan con Tomate is bread with tomatoes, a tapas classic. Although simple, it’s full of flavor and can make a great sandwich base.
This is a less traditional method that focuses on really getting the bread to absorb the tomato flavor. Usually, the sliced tomato is rubbed on the surface of the bread, getting as much pulp as possible on there.
With this recipe, toasting crusty bread, drizzling with oil and adding garlic and grated tomatoes is all it takes to produce this Spanish favorite.
6. Croquettes
Croquettes are usually made with ham, not cheese. But Spanish people have experimented with various different fillings from chocolate to mushrooms; when it’s deep fried it probably tastes good regardless of what’s in it.
Making the dough might seem a little intimidating at first, but it’s actually relatively easy. The hard part is staying clean! This traditional ham recipe combines Serrano ham with a bechamel sauce for that delightful creamy texture.
Croquettes can be served on their own, as part of a tapas spread (see also ‘19 Delicious And Simple Spanish Tapas Recipes‘) or as a starter.
7. Empanada
Empanadas (see also ‘20 Best Empanada Recipes‘) or beef turnovers are meat-filled pastry pockets. These are usually served as an appetizer or even after the main course.
The filling contains a delicious beef mixture of tomato, onion, garlic and various spices and is encased with a beautiful flaky pastry for a mouth-watering crunch.
These need to be shallow-fried in oil, so they aren’t the healthiest but they sure are tasty. It is recommended that you use a deep-fryer thermometer if you have one to keep an eye on the oil. The wooden chopstick trick can also work just as well.
8. Flan
If you’ve visited Spain before, you’ve probably seen an appetizing looking dessert called flan in a bakery. A smooth, creamy and rich dessert made from custard and caramel, a flan is great for any occasion.
In order to get a perfect consistency, you’ll need to cook the custard in a bain-marie.
Variations on this classic recipe include adding a citrus element with orange zest in the custard or for our coffee lovers, mixing in a few shots of espresso to the custard mixture.
9. Crema Catalana
Similar to the flan, the Crema Catalana is also made with custard and is similar to a traditional crème Brulee. However, vanilla, orange peel and cinnamon are used here to offer a sweeter taste.
Using a round iron device is used to burn the sugar on top in order for it to caramelize however, using a kitchen torch can work just as well.
10. Churros
Churros are a great after-dinner snack coated in cinnamon sugar and dipped in a rich chocolate sauce.
You might think these tasty pastries are difficult to make, but here is a recipe using pantry staples to make the perfect, easy churro.
Using fresh oil is key to making amazing churros, pipping the batter straight into the hot oil.
Churros can be eaten at any time of day. Serve with a rich and delicious sauce such as caramel, chocolate or dulce de leche.
11. Salmorejo
Salmorejo is a cold tomato soup that is from the South of Spain. A thicker and creamier version of gazpacho, this dish is the ultimate refreshment on a hot day.
Blending fresh tomatoes, garlic, stale bread and a little sherry vinegar, this is a healthy and low-calorie food which tastes great. Topped with Spanish ham and a hard-boiled egg and you’re ready to eat.
Vegan and vegetarian alternatives can be easily made with this recipe to suit all guests and family members.
12. Chicken And Chorizo Rice Pot
Chicken and chorizo are often a combination that we associate with Spanish food. This chicken casserole is a great sharing food and is full of flavor from the Chorizo oils that are released during cooking.
A great alternative to paella, this one-pot dish is ideal for a fuss-free weeknight dinner (see also ‘28 Of The Best Easy Friday Night Dinner Recipes‘) on a slow-cooker.
13. Spanish Chicken Stew
Another one-pot recipe (see also ‘33 One-Pot Recipes Perfect For Vegetarians‘) is this simple Spanish chicken stew, ideal for an easy and hearty dinner on a cold winter’s evening.
Chicken thighs, chorizo and cannellini beans (see also ‘Cannellini Beans – What Can I Do With Them?‘) are the main components of the dish, leaving you feeling full and satisfied. This is a typical dish shared with friends and family and is ideal for making in larger quantities.
14. Gazpacho
As we’ve already covered salmorejo, it’s time to talk about gazpacho. This quick and easy recipe can be ready in just 15 minutes.
Using fresh in-season tomatoes will produce amazing results as they are more flavorful and a little sweeter.
Gazpacho is a refreshing and chilled Spanish soup that varies from region to region, so don’t be alarmed if yours doesn’t taste the same as it did on holiday.
You can puree the soup to your liking before serving. Classic gazpacho toppings include homemade croutons, black pepper, Spanish ham and a chopped hard-boiled egg or simply some fresh herbs.
15. Jamon Iberico
Jamon Iberico is ham made from Iberico pigs and is famed for its noble lineage.
The ham can be eaten by itself or served with almost anything you like but here we’ve included a recipe in which it’s used in a toasted baguette with melted goat’s cheese, a handful of spinach and spicy Dijon mustard for this ultimate indulgent but easy lunch.
16. Albondigas
Albondigas is the Spanish word for meatballs. These meatballs are typically served in a tomato sauce, tapas style with a side of crusty bread or as a main course with rice or noodles.
The meat used can be a mixture of pork and beef.
Using fennel seeds adds extra flavor to the tomato sauce and Spanish paprika is used to add sweetness and spice to the meatballs themselves. You’ll need to make breadcrumbs to coat the meatballs.
17. Gambas Al Ajillo
Spanish garlic shrimp is a popular dish which contains juicy shrimp bathing in olive oil and garlic sauce.
This sauce is spicy and rich, perfect to infuse with the shrimp as well as to dip in some crusty bread afterwards.
The dish is so simple and easy to make, which can be done in under 10 minutes so if time isn’t on your side, have a go at making this dish.
18. Arroz Con Leche
Arroz con Leche is a Spanish rice pudding, which literally means rice with milk. A classic dessert in Spain, the pudding can be served either hot or cold depending on the time of year.
Here it is flavored with cinnamon and lemon and consists of a few simple ingredients. The milk is aromatized with sugar, lemon and cinnamon sticks to produce the ultimate flavor.
19. Magdalenas
Magdalenas are small, sweet little cakes that are light and fluffy when you bite into them. In Spain, they are traditionally served as breakfast food, served with hot chocolate or coffee.
Using typical pantry ingredients, it’s easy to make these tasty treats. The secret is the zest of a lemon to bring out that classic tangy flavor.
This is a really simple recipe that produces great results fast and is ideal for keeping children (and adults!) quiet and happy in the morning.
20. Basque Cheesecake
The burnt Basque cheesecake is a light, creamy and caramelized form of cheesecake that is guaranteed to impress your guests and it’s super easy to make.
A local favorite with Spaniards, it uses the usual cheesecake ingredients such as eggs, sugar and cream cheese but the burnt element comes from caramelizing the exterior when cooking it in the oven.
If you’re looking to use a different variation of this cheesecake, you can easily add citrus, bourbon or bake it for more or less time to alter the texture.
Although you can serve the cheesecake plain, some prefer to serve it with a fruit or caramel sauce for that extra bit of indulgence.
21. Espinacas Con Garbanzos
Spinach with Garbanzo beans is usually served as a side dish or a light meal on its own, especially popular in tapas bars. Serving suggestions include grilled pork chops or even some plain crusty bread.
Garbanzo beans or chickpeas are a great source of protein and fibre, not to mention they are delicious.
Garlic, onion, spinach and beans are cooked with cumin and salt blend well together to give you an authentic taste of Spain. Adding a splash of wine, or some paprika can really bring the dish alive.
The great thing about many Spanish dishes is that you can easily season them to your own liking.
22. Tarta De Santiago
Originally from Galicia, this tart is traditionally decorated with the St James cross. It is an almond and citrus tart that is ideal for dessert or in the afternoon with a coffee.
The light and fluffy tart are easy to make by simply creating a mixture and cooking the sponge.
To decorate the tart with the cross icing sugar is sprinkled over a stencil. You can either buy a stencil or make one using an internet printout which works just as well.
23. Dátiles Rellenos
Dates stuffed with cheese and bacon are a great snack in the style of tapas foods.
The sweetness from the dates pairs well with the creamy ricotta cheese and salty bacon, creating a wonderful taste sensation. This quick and easy recipe is ideal for creating large portions for a family gathering or event.
Dates are stuffed with the cheese using a piping bag and then covered with bacon, kept in place by a toothpick before cooking the bacon until golden.
24. Bocadillos
Bocadillos refers to a sandwich made with a Spanish baguette and is filled with a variety of cured meats, cheese, fish or any number of combinations.
Here we’ve featured a savory tuna bocadillo which will shake up your lunchtime routine.
Cooking the vegetables with herbs and spices, sugar and vinegar you create a coleslaw-style element.
Tuna is then added to the vegetable slaw mixture which will be placed on either side of the toasted baguette and topped with piquillos peppers (see also ‘What To Use Instead Of Piquillo Peppers (8 Substitutes)‘).
25. Chorizo
Spanish chorizo is made from pork meat and fat, seasoned with paprika and garlic. This meat can easily be found in any grocery store or deli counter.
A firm tapas favorite, chorizo can be served in a number of ways.
This recipe uses red wine and honey to give the meat a sweet syrupy coating. This can easily be prepared in advance, so it is great if you’re entertaining.
26. Pulpo A La Gallega
Pulpo a la Gallega is a Galician-style octopus and is a typical way to serve and eat octopus in the Northwestern regions of Spain.
A simple dish using high-quality olive oil, paprika and sea salt to season the octopus you can’t really go wrong. Cooking the octopus until it’s rich and tender is vital in creating a truly delicious dish.
Using frozen octopus means the meat will come tenderized and ready to cook. If you wish you can tenderize even more with a meat mallet, but this usually isn’t needed.
Serving with sliced baby potatoes adds some more substance to this dish if you want to serve it as part of a meal.
27. Boquerones Fritos
Boquerones fritos, or fried anchovies are a traditional Andalusian recipe. Anchovies aren’t for everyone, but frying these salty little fish (see also ‘The Perfect Foods To Serve With Fish‘) may change your mind.
When preparing, you can choose whether or not to leave the bone in as they are so small they can usually go unnoticed.
This recipe has instructions and a clear video indicating how to clean the anchovies, ready to coat in flour and salt.
Various fishmongers or grocery stores sell pre-prepared anchovies if you don’t feel like dealing with all the bones and guts. Fry and serve with fresh lemon wedges for a traditional Andalusian appetizer.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to make a traditional Spanish feast, then look no further. Here we have included the most authentic and popular foods from breakfast to dessert, so there’s plenty for you to try out.
As you can see there is a way to shape each recipe to suit your tastes and dietary requirements, making for lots of happy tummies.
Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are 4 Popular Spanish Dishes?
All of the dishes featured in this article are popular throughout Spain, with some more popular in certain regions.
The most popular and commonly associated dishes eaten in Spain are paella, tortilla Espanola, gazpacho and patatas bravas. These dishes are usually served on small sharing plates known as tapas.
What Is A Good Spanish Meal?
Spanish rice, paella, stews and seafood are all considered to be very good Spanish dishes and are very popular throughout the country.
In terms of whether a dish is ‘good’ is subjective and depends on the individual’s personal tastes.
What Is The Most Popular Food In Spain?
Paella is considered to be the national dish of Spain. Traditional paella comes from Valencia, where they use chicken, pork or rabbit with paella rice and vegetables.
Many different variations have been created over the years, including chicken and chorizo, seafood or vegetable paella which are very popular with tourists visiting the country.
27 Of The Most Authentic Spanish Recipes
Recipe by Jenna
Here are 27 of the most authentic and delicious Spanish recipes that are easy for anyone to make. All of these recipes can be adapted to suit any dietary requirements.
Course: Dinner
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- Pick a recipe from the list above
- Click the recipe name and visit the website
- Select the ingredients and cook the food
- Enjoy – don’t forget to leave a review
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Jenna
Food Lover at Whimsy And Spice
Hi, my name is Jenna and I have been a professional chef for almost the entirety of my adult life. What started as a hobby in college quickly turned into a passion with which I surrounded my life.
Cooking is great for your mental, physical, and emotional health. What’s the worst that could happen? Find a recipe that you like the sound of and cook it along with me. You might even unlock a new passion!
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Spanish Cuisine: A Rich and Varied Food Scene
Spanish culture is known for its rich and varied food scene. Cooking and sharing meals are deeply ingrained in Spanish society, serving as a way for people to socialize and bond with each other. The Spanish love to gather around the table and enjoy large sharing dishes, showcasing their love for communal dining. Tapas, another common way of eating in Spain, involves ordering a variety of small sharing plates for the table. These can be found at every corner, offering a wide range of flavors and options.
Spanish cuisine has something for everyone, whether you're a fan of bold flavors or prefer milder tastes. The dishes are diverse and cater to different preferences. From breakfast to dessert, there are numerous authentic Spanish dishes that you can try. Let's explore some of the most popular ones:
1. Paella
Paella is perhaps the most iconic Spanish dish. It originated in Valencia and traditionally contained chicken and either pork ribs or rabbit, along with spices and vegetables. Seafood was introduced to the dish later on. Paella is a fantastic sharing dish, full of flavor, and can be served straight out of the pan around the table. If you don't have a paella pan, you can use your largest, flattest pan for the best results. For an authentic touch, you can even cook it over an open flame [[1]].
2. Tortilla Española
Tortilla Española, also known as Spanish omelette, is made with potatoes, onions, and eggs. It's a simple yet tasty dish that can be adapted to suit individual preferences. You can add various fillings such as spinach, bacon, or tuna. Tortilla Española can be enjoyed on its own as a snack or as part of a tapas spread, paired with delicious sauces [[2]].
3. Pimientos de Padrón
Pimientos de Padrón are small peppers from Northwestern Spain that are traditionally served in tapas bars. They are deep-fried in oil until their skin blisters and then seasoned with sea salt flakes. Some peppers are hot, while others are not, so it's always a surprise. They make for a simple and flavorful addition to any dinner table [[3]].
4. Patatas Bravas
Patatas Bravas is another essential tapas dish. It consists of potatoes served in a spicy sauce made with onion, tomatoes, garlic, paprika, and sugar. The level of heat can be adjusted according to personal preference. Patatas Bravas are typically served with aioli, which helps balance the heat from the bravas sauce [[4]].
5. Pan Con Tomate
Pan Con Tomate is a classic Spanish tapas dish that features bread with tomatoes. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that can serve as a great sandwich base. The bread is toasted, drizzled with oil, and topped with garlic and grated tomatoes to infuse it with the tomato flavor [[5]].
6. Croquettes
Croquettes are a popular Spanish dish usually made with ham. However, Spanish people have experimented with various fillings, from chocolate to mushrooms. The dough used to make croquettes is relatively easy to prepare, but the challenge lies in keeping everything clean. The traditional ham recipe combines Serrano ham with a creamy bechamel sauce. Croquettes can be enjoyed on their own, as part of a tapas spread, or as a starter [[6]].
7. Empanada
Empanadas are meat-filled pastry pockets that are typically served as appetizers or even after the main course. The filling consists of a delicious beef mixture with tomato, onion, garlic, and various spices. The pastry is flaky and provides a satisfying crunch. Empanadas are shallow-fried in oil, resulting in a mouth-watering treat. They can be enjoyed with a side of dipping sauce [[7]].
8. Flan
Flan is a smooth, creamy, and rich dessert made from custard and caramel. It's a classic Spanish dessert that can be enjoyed on any occasion. To achieve the perfect consistency, the custard is cooked in a bain-marie. Variations of flan include adding citrus elements like orange zest or incorporating shots of espresso for coffee lovers [[8]].
9. Crema Catalana
Crema Catalana is a custard-based dessert similar to crème brûlée. It features vanilla, orange peel, and cinnamon for a sweeter taste. The sugar on top is caramelized using a round iron device or a kitchen torch. Crema Catalana is a delightful treat that combines creamy custard with a crunchy caramelized sugar topping [[9]].
10. Churros
Churros are a popular after-dinner snack in Spain. These fried pastries are coated in cinnamon sugar and often dipped in a rich chocolate sauce. While they may seem difficult to make, there are recipes using pantry staples that can help you create the perfect, easy churros. Fresh oil is key to achieving the best results. Churros can be enjoyed at any time of the day and can be paired with various sauces like caramel, chocolate, or dulce de leche [[10]].
These are just a few examples of the many authentic Spanish dishes you can try. Spanish cuisine offers a wide range of flavors and options, ensuring there's something to suit every palate. Whether you're looking to recreate the flavors of a Spanish holiday or expand your culinary skills, these recipes will surely satisfy your cravings.
Happy cooking and enjoy exploring the delicious world of Spanish cuisine!
Note: The information provided above is based on the search results and does not include personal expertise or experiences.
