Spain’s cuisine is as vibrant and diverse as its regions, offering an irresistible blend of Mediterranean ingredients, bold flavors, and centuries-old traditions.
From the bustling tapas bars of Madrid to seaside villages in Valencia, Spanish food is a journey in itself.
If you’re planning a trip or simply want to explore Spain through its flavors, here are six must-try dishes that define the soul of Spanish cooking.
1. Paella
No visit to Spain is complete without tasting paella, the country’s most famous rice dish. Traditionally cooked over an open fire in a wide, shallow pan, paella brings together short-grain rice, saffron, olive oil, and a medley of proteins — often seafood, chicken, rabbit, or even snails. While the original version hails from Valencia, you’ll find countless delicious variations across Spain. Don’t miss the crispy rice at the bottom, known as socarrat — it’s a delicacy in itself.
2. Tortilla Española (Spanish Omelette)
A staple in every Spanish kitchen, tortilla española is a thick, hearty omelette made with eggs, potatoes, and onions, slowly fried in olive oil. Served hot or cold, it’s a versatile dish found in homes, cafes, and tapas bars. Whether eaten as a light meal, a tapa, or tucked into a crusty baguette as a sandwich (bocadillo), this humble dish captures the essence of Spanish comfort food.
3. Jamón Ibérico
Cured ham is a cornerstone of Spanish gastronomy, and Jamón Ibérico is its finest expression. Made from free-range Iberian pigs that feed on acorns, this delicacy is dry-cured for months — sometimes years — to develop its complex, nutty flavor and melt-in-the-mouth texture. It’s typically sliced paper-thin and served with nothing more than bread or manchego cheese. A few bites of this luxurious ham and you’ll understand why it’s considered a national treasure.
4. Gazpacho
When the Spanish sun is blazing, nothing beats a bowl of gazpacho. This cold, refreshing soup is made with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar — all blended into a smooth, vibrant mix. Gazpacho is often served in a glass, more like a drink than a soup, and it’s a go-to during hot summer months. It’s healthy, hydrating, and packed with fresh flavor.
5. Patatas Bravas
Looking for the ultimate Spanish tapa? Patatas bravas is your answer. These crispy fried potatoes are smothered in a spicy tomato-based sauce (sometimes with garlicky aioli too) and are a favorite in bars across the country. Every region has its own take, making it a fun dish to try multiple times. Pair it with a cold beer or a glass of Rioja, and you’re living the Spanish way.
6. Pulpo a la Gallega (Galician-Style Octopus)
This dish may surprise you — it’s incredibly simple yet packed with flavor. Pulpo a la Gallega consists of tender octopus, boiled and sliced, then seasoned with coarse sea salt, smoky Spanish paprika (pimentón), and a generous drizzle of olive oil. Often served over a bed of sliced boiled potatoes on a wooden plate, it’s a delicacy from northwestern Spain that seafood lovers shouldn’t miss.
Spanish cuisine is a celebration of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and regional pride. Whether you’re sipping gazpacho under the Andalusian sun or enjoying jamón ibérico in a bustling Madrid market, every bite tells a story. These six dishes are just a starting point — Spain has an entire culinary landscape waiting to be explored.