Spain is a destination that, in addition to standing out for its good climate, culture and hospitality to the people, is recognized for its excellent gastronomy. Spanish cuisine is one of the best in the world, thanks to the excellent raw materials and great diversity, which are the result of the territory’s multiculturalism. Many of the Spanish chefs, in addition, are great international references, which highlights the great importance of good cuisine in the Spanish country.

There is also a lot of variety, in fact, each region has exquisite dishes capable of conquering the most demanding palate. In the north, fish such as octopus or cod triumph, as well as spoon dishes such as Asturian bean stew. In the south we have special and healthy dishes such as gazpacho and, in addition, there are a good number of sweet dishes. In the centre of the country, on the other hand, meats and dishes such as beans, lentils or stew abound.

Therefore, we can say that Spanish cuisine has no rival: it is delicious, and tasty and also contributes to a healthy lifestyle. If you decide to go on vacation to Spain this year, knowing more about its gastronomic richness will allow you to enjoy your vacation more fully. Below, we show you the dishes that you cannot miss.

1. Potato omelette

The potato omelette is par excellence the most typical dish in Spain, and probably one of the favourites of the Spanish people. Its preparation is very simple, with some potato, egg, olive oil and salt you have it done. In addition, it is very versatile, you can take it at any time of the day (and in any season of the year). Accompanied by a vegetable salad, it is a delicious lunch, but it is also eaten cold in sandwiches, such as a tapa or a pinch.

2. Gazpacho

Originating in Andalusia, gazpacho is a cold soup made from seasonal vegetables such as tomato, pepper and cucumber, and seasoned with extra virgin olive oil, vinegar and salt. In addition to being light and nutritious, gazpacho is very refreshing, making it perfect to drink during the hot months. A dish that is not lacking in the kitchens of the Spanish and that can be eaten at any time of the day.

3. Paella

Paella is undoubtedly the Spanish dish that has crossed the most borders. If we were to ask any foreigner what the typical dish of Spain is, the answer would probably be paella. There are several varieties, but the Valencian is considered to be the most authentic. We can find them with seafood, chicken, vegetables… all of them are based on rice and are prepared with ingredients such as red pepper, tomato, garlic and olive oil.

4. Tomato bread and serrano ham

There is nothing that the Spaniards enjoy more than good ham with tomato bread and a drizzle of olive oil. It is excellent for breakfast, lunch, snack and even when you want to have a light but comforting dinner. In addition, ham is the most special sausage in Spain, since it is only produced there, which is why it is always one of the main gastronomic claims of visitors.

5. Galician-style octopus

A simple and delicious dish is the Galician octopus. The octopus is cooked and served with potatoes on a wooden board, and is traditionally accompanied by paprika, a seasoning made from red peppers that gives it a very tasty and unique touch.

6. ‘Huevos rotos’ with chorizo or ham

‘Huevos rotos’ is a dish that everyone likes. Easy, cheap and very rich. They are prepared quickly and very few ingredients are needed: eggs, potatoes, oil and salt. There are many versions of this dish, but the most common is with chorizo ​​or Serrano ham. Two essential ingredients of Spanish gastronomy.

7. Stew from Madrid

The stew from Madrid is one of the traditional recipes of Spanish gastronomy and typical, as its name indicates, of the community of Madrid. It is a common dish in the cold winter months, and the most classic way of serving it is by separating its ingredients into three parts: first, the broth resulting from cooking, then the chickpeas with the vegetables and potatoes, and finally the meats. A real energy bomb.

8. Tapas

A classic of Spanish gastronomy are these small portions of food to accompany a drink. The concept refers to the size of the portion and not to the dish itself. For this reason, you can have seafood tapas, for example; a tapa of manchego ratatouille; a tapa of Russian salad; or a potato omelette tapa. The options are endless. In Spain, we can find bars specialized in tapas where people usually stand at the bar while having a drink and a good tapa. 

9. ‘Pescaíto frito’

In certain areas of Spain, almost always coastal and Andalusian, fried fish is an institution and all restaurants pride themselves on doing it perfectly. It is fish, such as whitebait, sonsos, squid, chopitos, small anchovies or even prawns, which are passed through flour and fried in oil. A classic.

10. Churros with chocolate

Finally, if you are a sweet lover, this option will not disappoint you. The churros and their bigger sister, the porra, are basically: flour, water and salt that is fried. In Spain, it is a tradition to accompany them with hot chocolate in winter, and cold chocolate in summer. A delicious and very appetizing breakfast, which curiously we can find in street stalls.

Our mouths are watering just thinking about all these dishes… Which one is your favourite?