3 Spanish Dishes Every First-Time Visitor Needs to Try

PHOTO BY WIJS (WISE) ON PEXELS

Spain is a country where every region tells its story through food. For first-time visitors, diving into its culinary scene is a must.

From coastal seafood to hearty inland recipes, Spanish cuisine offers bold flavors and comforting textures. Here are three iconic dishes that capture the essence of Spain—and are perfect for your first bite into its culture.

Paella (Valenciana)

Paella is a traditional dish from Valencia and a symbol of Spanish cuisine. It’s a rice-based meal cooked in a wide, shallow pan, often flavored with saffron for its signature yellow color.

Typical ingredients include chicken, rabbit, green beans, tomatoes, and garrofó, a local white bean. Some versions also feature seafood like shrimp or mussels.

Paella is usually cooked outdoors over an open flame and shared with others. Tasting it in Valencia offers a true experience of Spanish flavor and tradition.

Here’s a video tutorial:

Jamón Ibérico

Jamón Ibérico is one of Spain’s most prized culinary treasures. Made from Iberian pigs, it’s known for its nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The finest type, de Bellota, comes from acorn-fed pigs that roam freely in oak-rich forests.

As the post below recalls, Jamón Ibérico was once banned in the U.S. due to USDA restrictions. Imports began in 2005, but the aged ham didn’t reach shelves until 2008. Now, master cutters serve it in high-end restaurants like Restaurant Daniel:

With its deep marbling, rich history, and artisanal preparation, Jamón Ibérico offers a true taste of Spain’s culinary heritage.

Tortilla Española

Tortilla Española, also known as Spanish omelette, is a classic dish made with eggs, potatoes, and onions. It’s simple to prepare but full of flavor, making it a staple across Spain.

The ingredients are sliced, sautéed in olive oil, then mixed with eggs and cooked until golden and set. It’s hearty and satisfying.

It’s easy to make. Here’s a recipe:

Often served as a tapa or in a sandwich, it’s enjoyed warm or at room temperature. This humble dish perfectly captures the essence of Spanish home cooking.