There's more to Spain than tapas and there's more to Spanish food than just serrano and charcuterie. While these are three excellent choices to try while a traveler is in Spain, there's so much more to this country's most popular dishes that have nothing to do with any of them... and they're just as exceptional. Spain is known for its fresh, bold flavors and with its proximity to the sea, seafood is a common ingredient in many of its most traditional dishes. However, vegetables also have a place in its cuisine and that's what makes this culinarily-minded country so incredible: the range in its dishes, and its flavors, are second to none.
Now that summer feels as though it's finally right around the corner, there are many dishes that can be recreated at home while we bide the time until we can visit Europe once again. In honor of warmer months, brighter days, and warmer temperatures, these dishes are just the ticket to lift a person's spirits and get them in the summer mood.
Gazpacho
If you think that vegetables can't make up an entire meal, then think again. Gazpacho is perhaps one of the most clever and brilliant uses for raw vegetables and it's unbelievably easy to make.
That aside, this cold soup serves up the flavor in spades, from the vegetables that will likely be in-season by the time you make it, to the hot sauce, cumin, and vinegar that give it stellar flavor and body. Half of the soup is pureed while half is left chunky so the texture throughout this soup is just as unbelievable as its flavor. Serve it up with a few extra dashes of hot sauce, a drizzle of good olive oil, or some chilled shrimp to make it a full meal.
Tortilla Española
This isn't just your average omelet. Tortilla Española is similar to the Italian frittata in thickness and in its cooking method which is done easily in the oven.
Traditionally, caramelized onions and potatoes sit in the bottom of any cast-iron or oven-safe pan and add sweetness and saltiness to the dish, while chorizo and spinach are also commonly added. It's filling all on its own and it's great for breakfast but serves even better as a lunch dish, and with a fresh side salad, it's a complete meal.
Pisto
This dish might look like ratatouille but in Spain, it's called pisto. This dish is actually a cross between ratatouille and bruschetta, as the freshest of vegetables for the season are tossed up with some good olive oil and simple spices, and served just as-is.
Traditionally, the vegetable mixture can be served with a side of crusty bread and a side salad, echoing the traditional, fresh flavors of Spain.
Pulpo a la Gallega
For the seafood lovers, this one goes out to you! Pulpo a la gallega is an adventurous dish that utilizes octopus as its main protein which isn't surprising, considering octopus is seen in many Spanish dishes.
In order to bring out the true flavors of the octopus while allowing it to shine in all of its simplicity, the only spices added are salt, pepper, and a bit of paprika. The octopus is served over cooked potato slices and to finish, a bit of good olive oil is all that's needed. It's fresh, flavorful, and exudes Spanish comfort.
Gambas al Ajillo
Another option for those who aren't on board with octopus is gambas al ajillo. This dish uses shrimp instead of octopus and is also made in quite a simple way; this dish doubles as an option for tapas but when served as a small meal, it's delicious.
Large prawns are cooked in olive oil and seasoned with salt, pepper, roasted garlic, and chili flakes. It's a little spicy with simple flavors that absolutely scream summer, and a bit of good, crusty bread is the perfect accompaniment for soaking up all of that delicious sauce left at the bottom of the pan.
Leche Frita
Now, for something really sweet... literally! No good summer dinner is complete without a little dessert and Spain has this covered, too. The base of Leche frita is 'fried milk' which might sound strange until you realize how utterly delicious it is.
This dish is commonly found throughout Northern Spain and starts with a decadent milk pudding which is then battered and fried, creating a crunchy exterior with a milky, creamy, and sweet interior. It gets a topping of either powdered sugar or whipped cream and that's really all you need for this heavenly dish.