Top 10 Local Dishes to Try in Spain as a Student Traveler

Aside from its enchanting scenes and rich history, Spain provides the culinary experience of a lifetime. From traditional Spanish tapas to quality seafood, the diverse regions of Spain will offer you a variety of foods you’ll be missing when you come back home! Here are 10 of the best Spanish food dishes you must try when traveling as a student.

Travel to Spain with ACIS

Paella

Being one of the most popular dishes in Spain, paella is a must-try lunch option during your travels. This delicious meal which originates from the region of Valencia can either be made with seafood or meats such as chicken and rabbit, making it adaptable to all tastes! Often prepared in a large pan, paella makes the perfect meal to enjoy with friends. And if you’re traveling on an ACIS Tour, you just might get to make your own as part of a cooking lesson!

Gambas al Ajillo

Gambas al Ajillo, or garlic shrimp, is a popular tapa found all around Spain. This sizzling dish consists of shrimp cooked in olive oil with garlic, chili flakes, and splash of white wine or Spanish brandy. Pair this starter with crunchy bread to soak up the flavorful sauce and enjoy all the flavors coming together.

Jamón Serrano

This cured ham is a staple of Spanish cuisine, served regularly as a starter to any meal or even a snack with fresh tomato and olive oil. Jamón serrano comes from white pigs, usually consuming grains as their main food. Its aging for several months gives it its rich, slightly nutty flavor that you won’t be able to forget!

Croquetas

These crispy, golden-brown bites make the perfect tapa to start your meal. Traditionally, they are filled with Jamon Serrano and mashed potatoes or bechamel sauce, but variations filled with cheese, seafood, and different meats have become popular over the years. Find this simple yet delicious appetizer at any Spanish bar.

Patatas Bravas

This flavorful tapa is made with two simple ingredients, potatoes and brava sauce, making it an affordable yet delicious dish that you won’t want to miss. This slightly spicy and creamy sauce is what makes this appetizer stand out, made with olive oil, Spanish paprika, flour, vegetable or chicken broth, and salt. Some choose to add tomato paste for extra color and flavor.

Polbo á Feira

This Galician specialty, also known as pulpo a la Gallega, features octopus that has been boiled until it is perfectly tender, topped with coarse salt, paprika, and olive oil. The quality of these local ingredients is what makes this dish so delicious. If you find yourself in the Northern region of Spain, make sure to take the time to enjoy this delicacy.

Tortilla Española

This classic Spanish dish is Spain’s take on an omelet, made with eggs, potatoes, onions, and sometimes chorizo for extra flavor. Consumed at any time of the day, tortilla can be enjoyed as a tapa to share, a light meal, or even stuffed into a baguette to make a delicious bocadillo.

Cochinillo Asado

This roast suckling pig is famous in the city of Segovia, where chefs prove the delicacy and tenderness of their dish by cutting the pig with a plate instead of a knife, followed by the tradition of breaking the plate. The whole piglet is slow-roasted in a wood-fired oven, making the skin crispy and the meat tender. The overall experience and incredible food will be sure to make this an unforgettable meal!

Gazpacho

This refreshing cold tomato soup is the ideal dish for Spain’s hot summers. Made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, garlic and olive oil, this chilled soup makes the perfect appetizer for a healthy and light meal.

Churros con Chocolate

To end your culinary adventure on a sweet note, try churros con chocolate, Spain’s most beloved dessert. The fried dough coated in sugar is perfect for dipping into the rich Spanish hot chocolate, making it a treat you can’t miss!

Spain boasts a range of culinary traditions for any palette, with each region offering its own unique flavors and specialties. Join ACIS in exploring the best Spanish food and culture, truly immersing yourself into its vibrant culture.