1. Tortilla de Patatas – Spain
This world-renowned Spanish tapa recipe is a quintessential classic of Mediterranean cuisine. You’ll find it in any bar or classic restaurant across the country.
2. Paella Valenciana – Spain
A jewel of Spanish cuisine, Paella Valenciana mixes rice, chicken, rabbit, and green beans, offering a taste of the Mediterranean Sea and Spanish soil in one dish. Dive into our authentic Paella Valenciana recipe here.
3. Gazpacho – Spain
Gazpacho is a refreshing, cold tomato-based soup, perfect for hot days. This Andalusian classic is a blend of tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and garlic, embodying the essence of summer. For a twist on the classic, explore our Green Gazpacho recipe here.
4. Patatas Bravas – Spain
A beloved tapas dish, Patatas Bravas features spicy diced potatoes served with a bold tomato sauce. It’s a simple yet irresistible part of Spanish gastronomy. Try our spicy Patatas Bravas recipe here.
5. Jamón Ibérico – Spain
Celebrated around the world, Jamón Ibérico is a type of cured ham produced in Spain, known for its rich flavor and silky texture.
6. Churros con Chocolate – Spain
A delightful Spanish dessert, Churros con Chocolate are fried dough pastries served with a thick, hot chocolate sauce. Perfect for a sweet treat any time of the day. The spanish tradition is to have churros for New Year’s breakfast as well as a treat after a long night partying in the streets, if you make it all the way to sunrise, churros is the choice!
7. Fabada Asturiana – Spain
This hearty bean stew from Asturias is a comforting dish made with faba beans, chorizo, morcilla, and saffron. It’s a taste of Spanish tradition. Warm up with our Fabada Asturiana recipe here (link).
8. Pulpo a la Gallega – Spain
Galicia’s signature dish, Pulpo a la Gallega, is tender octopus served with paprika, rock salt, and olive oil. A simple dish that’s bursting with flavor. Savor our Pulpo a la Gallega recipe here (link).
9. Sangria – Spain
The ultimate Spanish drink, Sangria combines red wine, fruit, a sweetener, and a small amount of brandy. It’s a festive, refreshing beverage ideal for gatherings. Mix our Sangria recipe for your next party here (link).
10. Calamares a la Romana – Spain
Squid rings battered and fried to golden perfection, served with lemon. A popular dish in tapas bars across Spain, it’s a must for seafood lovers. Dive into our Calamares a la Romana recipe here (link).
11. Pisto – Spain
Often referred to as Spanish ratatouille, Pisto is a vegetable stew combining tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, onions, and eggplants, sometimes topped with a fried egg. Discover the flavors of our Pisto recipe here (link).
12. Salmorejo – Spain
A thicker cousin of Gazpacho, Salmorejo is a creamy tomato soup topped with hard-boiled eggs and jamón. It’s a refreshing, nourishing dish from Andalusia. Enjoy our Salmorejo recipe here (link).
13. Croquetas de Jamón – Spain
These crispy, creamy croquettes are a staple of Spanish cuisine, filled with ham and béchamel sauce. Perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer. Try making our Croquetas de Jamón recipe here (link).
14. Albondigas – Spain
Spanish meatballs in a flavorful tomato sauce, Albondigas are a comforting and versatile dish, served as a main course or a tapas. Get our Albondigas recipe here (link).
15. Flan – Spain
A creamy caramel custard dessert that’s a staple in Spanish households. Its smooth texture and rich flavor make it a beloved classic. Indulge in our Flan recipe here (link).
16. Paella de Marisco – Spain
A seafood variation of the traditional Paella, featuring shrimp, clams, and mussels. It brings the taste of the Spanish coast to your table. Discover how to make Paella de Marisco here (link).
17. Escalivada – Spain
A dish of roasted eggplant, peppers, onion, and tomatoes, often served as a side dish or on toast. It’s a celebration of the Mediterranean garden. Taste our Escalivada recipe here (link).
18. Ensaladilla Rusa – Spain
Despite its name, Ensaladilla Rusa is a popular Spanish potato salad mixed with tuna, carrots, peas, and mayonnaise. It’s a common tapa throughout Spain. Create our Ensaladilla Rusa here (link).
19. Arroz Negro – Spain
A stunning black rice dish colored with squid ink and loaded with seafood. Arroz Negro is a visually impressive and deliciously unique paella variant. Experience our Arroz Negro recipe here (link).
20. Gambas al Ajillo – Spain
A sizzling dish of shrimp cooked in garlic and chili oil. Gambas al Ajillo is a flavorful, garlicky treat that’s simple to prepare. Learn how to make Gambas al Ajillo here (link).
21. Fideuà – Spain
Similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice, Fideuà is a seafood dish that’s a staple in the Valencia region. It’s rich in flavor and texture. Try our Fideuà recipe here (link).
22. Tarta de Santiago – Spain
A traditional Spanish almond cake from Galicia, marked with the Cross of Saint James. It’s rich, moist, and flavorful, perfect for dessert or tea time. Bake our Tarta de Santiago recipe here (link).
23. Montaditos – Spain
Small, flavorful sandwiches that are a staple of Spanish bars. They come in endless varieties, making them perfect for sampling different flavors. Discover our Montaditos recipes here (link).
24. Leche Frita – Spain
A unique Spanish dessert made from fried milk, coated in sugar and cinnamon. Its crispy exterior and creamy interior make it irresistibly delicious. Indulge in our Leche Frita recipe here (link).
25. Bacalao al Pil Pil – Spain
A Basque country specialty, this dish features salt cod in a garlic and chili olive oil emulsion. Bacalao al Pil Pil is known for its unique texture and flavor. Master our Bacalao al Pil Pil recipe here (link).
26. Cocido Madrileño – Spain
A traditional chickpea-based stew from Madrid, combining meats, sausages, and vegetables for a hearty and comforting meal. It’s a taste of Spanish history. Enjoy our Cocido Madrileño recipe here (link).
27. Merluza a la Vasca – Spain
A Basque dish featuring hake in a green sauce with peas and clams. It’s a light and flavorful seafood dish that showcases regional ingredients. Cook our Merluza a la Vasca recipe here (link).
28. Caracoles – Spain
Snails cooked in a spicy, aromatic broth, Caracoles are a delicacy in various regions of Spain, offering a unique taste experience. Dare to try our Caracoles recipe here (link).
29. Rabo de Toro – Spain
A rich and tender oxtail stew, slow-cooked to perfection. Rabo de Toro is a traditional dish with deep flavors, often enjoyed during festivities. Discover the richness of our Rabo de Toro recipe here (link).
30. Crema Catalana – Spain
Catalonia’s answer to crème brûlée, this dessert features a rich custard base topped with a caramelized sugar crust. It’s a delightful end to any meal. Savor our Crema Catalana recipe here (link).
31. Margherita Pizza – Italy
The epitome of Italian simplicity and flavor, Margherita Pizza features tomato, mozzarella, fresh basil, and olive oil on a thin crust. A tribute to Italian colors and taste. Margherita Pizza recipe here (link).
32. Lasagna alla Bolognese – Italy
A classic dish from Bologna, Lasagna alla Bolognese layers delicate pasta with rich Bolognese sauce, béchamel, and Parmesan cheese. It’s the heart of Italian family cuisine. Lasagna alla Bolognese recipe here (link).
33. Risotto alla Milanese – Italy
A creamy, stirring masterpiece, Risotto alla Milanese is tinted yellow with saffron and enriched with bone marrow, embodying Milanese luxury on a plate. Risotto alla Milanese recipe here (link).
34. Tiramisu – Italy
The beloved Italian dessert combining espresso-dipped ladyfingers with a creamy mascarpone cheese mixture, dusted with cocoa. Tiramisu is a celebration of coffee and sweetness. Tiramisu recipe here (link).
35. Carbonara – Italy
A Roman classic, Carbonara uses just a few quality ingredients: pasta, eggs, Pecorino Romano, pancetta, and black pepper, creating a creamy yet light dish. Authentic Carbonara recipe here (link).
36. Osso Buco alla Milanese – Italy
A Milanese specialty, Osso Buco consists of cross-cut veal shanks braised with vegetables, white wine, and broth, traditionally served with gremolata and risotto. Osso Buco alla Milanese recipe here (link).
37. Minestrone – Italy
A hearty Italian vegetable soup, Minestrone is a staple of Italian home cooking, featuring a mix of vegetables, beans, and pasta or rice. Minestrone recipe here (link).
38. Panzanella – Italy
A Tuscan bread salad made with soaked stale bread, ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and basil, dressed in olive oil and vinegar. Panzanella is a fresh, vibrant dish. Panzanella recipe here (link).
39. Pesto Genovese – Italy
Originating from Genoa, this basil pesto combines fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, and olive oil for a fragrant and versatile sauce. Pesto Genovese here (link).
40. Caponata – Italy
A sweet and sour Sicilian eggplant dish, Caponata is a complex mix of flavors with eggplant, tomatoes, celery, olives, and capers. It’s a perfect antipasto or side dish. Caponata recipe here (link).
41. Saltimbocca alla Romana – Italy
A dish of veal wrapped with prosciutto and sage, cooked in butter and white wine. Saltimbocca alla Romana is a flavorful Roman classic. Saltimbocca alla Romana recipe here (link).
42. Gnocchi di Patate – Italy
Soft, pillowy potato dumplings served with various sauces, Gnocchi di Patate is a comforting dish that showcases Italian simplicity and warmth. Gnocchi di Patate recipe here (link).
43. Cacciucco – Italy
A rich Tuscan seafood stew, Cacciucco combines a variety of fish and shellfish in a tomato and red wine broth. It’s a taste of the Italian coast. Cacciucco recipe here (link).
44. Focaccia Genovese – Italy
A traditional Italian bread, Focaccia Genovese is soft, olive oil-rich, and can be topped with herbs, salt, or onions. It’s perfect as an appetizer or snack. Focaccia Genovese recipe here (link).
45. Cannoli Siciliani – Italy
Iconic Sicilian pastry tubes filled with a sweet, creamy ricotta mixture, Cannoli Siciliani are a must-try for dessert lovers. Cannoli Siciliani recipe here (link).
46. Ragu alla Bolognese – Italy
A slow-cooked meat sauce from Bologna, Ragu alla Bolognese is rich, hearty, and served with tagliatelle or used in lasagna. It’s the essence of Italian comfort food. Ragu alla Bolognese recipe here (link).
47. Ribollita – Italy
A Tuscan bread soup that combines cannellini beans, vegetables, and stale bread, Ribollita is a perfect example of Italian cucina povera (peasant cooking). Ribollita recipe here (link).
48. Polenta – Italy
A versatile cornmeal dish, Polenta can be creamy or firm and served with cheeses, sauces, or meats. It’s a northern Italian staple. Polenta recipes here (link).
49. Bruschetta al Pomodoro – Italy
A simple yet flavorful antipasto, Bruschetta al Pomodoro tops grilled bread with fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. It captures the essence of Italian summer. Bruschetta al Pomodoro recipe here (link).
50. Affogato – Italy
A delightful Italian dessert where hot espresso is poured over cold gelato or ice cream, creating a creamy, dreamy treat. Affogato combines the best of both worlds. Affogato recipe here (link).
51. Moussaka – Greece
A rich, layered dish featuring eggplants, potatoes, and a spiced meat filling, topped with béchamel sauce. Moussaka is a hearty Greek casserole that’s a staple in Greek cuisine.
52. Spanakopita – Greece
A classic Greek pie made with flaky phyllo pastry, spinach, feta cheese, and herbs. Spanakopita is a delicious appetizer or snack that captures the flavors of Greece.
53. Souvlaki – Greece
Marinated pieces of pork, chicken, or lamb grilled on skewers. Souvlaki is a popular Greek fast food that’s flavorful and easy to eat on the go.
54. Tzatziki – Greece
A refreshing yogurt-based sauce or dip with cucumber, garlic, and dill. Tzatziki is a versatile accompaniment to many Greek dishes, especially grilled meats.
55. Greek Salad (Horiatiki) – Greece
A vibrant salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, feta cheese, and olives, dressed with olive oil and oregano. Greek Salad is a simple, fresh dish emblematic of Greek cuisine.
56. Pastit*io – Greece
Often described as Greek lasagna, Pastit*io layers pasta, meat sauce, and béchamel. It’s a comforting baked pasta dish with rich flavors.
57. Baklava – Greece
A sweet, syrupy pastry made of layers of phyllo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey. Baklava is a decadent dessert found in Greek and Middle Eastern cuisine.
58. Dolmades – Greece
Grape leaves stuffed with rice, pine nuts, and herbs, often served with lemon. Dolmades are a delightful appetizer or side dish that’s fun to make and eat.
59. Lamb Kleftiko – Greece
Slow-cooked lamb marinated in garlic, lemon, and herbs, wrapped in parchment paper. Lamb Kleftiko is tender and full of flavor, a testament to traditional Greek cooking.
60. Galaktoboureko – Greece
A custard pie with phyllo pastry and syrup. Galaktoboureko is a beloved Greek dessert that offers a perfect balance of creamy and crispy textures.
61. Saganaki – Greece
A quick and flavorful appetizer of fried cheese. Saganaki is named after the skillet in which it’s cooked and is often flambéed with brandy.
62. Fasolada – Greece
A traditional Greek bean soup, considered the national dish of Greece. Fasolada is a comforting, hearty meal made with white beans, olive oil, and vegetables.
63. Koulourakia – Greece
Butter cookies twisted into various shapes, known for their distinctive buttery flavor and crisp texture. Koulourakia are especially popular during Easter celebrations.
64. Gyros – Greece
Meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, traditionally pork or chicken, served in a pita wrap with tzatziki, tomatoes, onions, and fries. Gyros is a beloved Greek street food.
65. Horta Vrasta – Greece
A simple, nutritious dish of boiled greens seasoned with olive oil and lemon. Horta Vrasta showcases the Greek philosophy of enjoying and celebrating vegetables.
66. Melitzanosalata – Greece
A flavorful Greek eggplant dip, combining roasted eggplant, garlic, lemon, and olive oil. Melitzanosalata is a perfect starter or side dish for any meal.
67. Loukoumades – Greece
Greek honey balls, a traditional dessert of fried dough soaked in honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. Loukoumades are a sweet treat that’s impossible to resist.
68. Octopus Krasato – Greece
Octopus cooked in red wine with onions and herbs, Octopus Krasato is a delicious example of Greek seafood cuisine. It’s tender and flavorful.
69. Skordalia – Greece
A thick garlic and potato dip, often accompanied by vegetables or bread. Skordalia is a bold and creamy addition to the Greek table.
70. Tiropita – Greece
Flaky phyllo pastry filled with a mix of cheeses. Tiropita is a cheesy, comforting snack or appetizer that’s popular in Greek cuisine.
71. Menemen – Turkey
A popular Turkish breakfast dish made with eggs, tomatoes, green peppers, and spices, cooked in olive oil. It’s a simple yet flavorful start to the day, showcasing the fresh produce of the region.
72. İskender Kebap – Turkey
Thinly sliced lamb served over pieces of pita bread, generously topped with tomato sauce and melted butter, and served with yogurt. This dish is a testament to the rich, meaty flavors of Turkish cuisine.
73. Dolma – Turkey
Vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, pine nuts, and aromatic herbs. Dolma is a versatile dish that can be served cold or warm, highlighting the Ottoman Empire’s culinary influence.
74. Lahmacun – Turkey
Often referred to as Turkish pizza, Lahmacun is a thin piece of dough topped with a mixture of minced meat, vegetables, and herbs, then baked. It’s a popular street food, enjoyed rolled up with lemon juice squeezed over the top.
75. Baklava – Turkey
A rich, sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts, sweetened and held together with syrup or honey. Baklava is a celebrated dessert in Turkey, known for its intricate preparation and delicious taste.
76. Mercimek Çorbası – Turkey
A hearty lentil soup that’s a staple in Turkish households. Made with red lentils, vegetables, and spices, it’s comforting, nutritious, and perfect for any meal.
77. Sarma – Turkey
Grape leaves stuffed with a filling of rice, pine nuts, and aromatic herbs, often served with a side of yogurt. Sarma is similar to dolma, with a focus on the tangy flavor of the grape leaves.
78. Döner Kebap – Turkey
Meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, traditionally lamb or chicken, then sliced off and served in bread with salads and sauces. Döner Kebap is a fast-food favorite in Turkey, known for its savory flavors.
79. Börek – Turkey
A savory pastry made with thin layers of dough known as yufka, filled with cheese, minced meat, or vegetables. Börek is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day.
80. Şiş Kebap – Turkey
Skewered and grilled cubes of meat, typically lamb or chicken, marinated in spices and then grilled. Şiş Kebap is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy meat, often served with rice and vegetables.
81. Turkish Delight (Lokum) – Turkey
A family of confections based on a gel of starch and sugar, often flavored with rosewater, lemon, or mastic. Turkish Delight is a classic sweet treat, known for its soft, chewy texture.
82. Meze – Turkey
A selection of small dishes served as appetizers or along with alcoholic drinks. Meze can include a wide range of items, from dips like hummus and tzatziki to stuffed mussels and fried calamari.
83. Kumpir – Turkey
Baked potatoes that are filled with a variety of ingredients, including cheese, sausage, corn, and olives. Kumpir is a popular street food in Turkey, offering a customizable and filling meal option.
84. Ayran – Turkey
A traditional Turkish drink made by mixing yogurt with water and a pinch of salt. Ayran is a refreshing beverage, often consumed with meals or as a thirst quencher during hot weather.
85. Hamsi – Turkey
Small, anchovy-like fish that are a staple in the Black Sea region’s cuisine. Hamsi can be prepared in many ways, including fried, baked, or as a filling for bread.
86. Imam Bayildi – Turkey
A dish of whole eggplants that are lightly fried and then stuffed with a mixture of onion, garlic, and tomatoes, and baked. Imam Bayildi is a delicious vegetarian option, showcasing the eggplant’s soft, creamy texture.
87. Yaprak Sarması – Turkey
Another variation of stuffed grape leaves, this version includes a meat filling, making it a richer and more substantial dish than its vegetarian counterpart, sarma.
88. Sucuk – Turkey
A spicy Turkish sausage made from ground beef with garlic and a variety of spices. Sucuk can be eaten on its own, grilled, or added to other dishes for flavor.
89. Pide – Turkey
A boat-shaped flatbread served with a variety of toppings, such as cheese, eggs, and different meats. Pide is sometimes called Turkish pizza and is a popular dish in bakeries and restaurants.
90. Kazandibi – Turkey
A caramelized milk pudding, kazandibi has a burnt sugar flavor and is a unique and delicious dessert. The name translates to “bottom of the pot,” referring to the caramelized layer.
91. Tabbouleh – Lebanon
A fresh herb and bulgur salad, Tabbouleh is a quintessential Lebanese dish, packed with parsley, mint, tomatoes, and onions, dressed in lemon juice and olive oil. It’s a light, refreshing side dish that perfectly complements richer flavors.
92. Hummus – Lebanon
This creamy spread made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic is a staple in Lebanese cuisine. Hummus is enjoyed worldwide, served with warm pita bread or as a dip for vegetables.
93. Falafel – Lebanon
Deep-fried balls or patties made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, falafel is a popular Middle Eastern food often served in pita bread with salad, pickled vegetables, hot sauce, and tahini sauce.
94. Baba Ghanoush – Lebanon
A smoky, savory dip made from roasted eggplants mixed with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. Baba Ghanoush is a delightful appetizer or snack, served with olive oil and pita bread.
95. Kibbeh – Lebanon
Considered Lebanon’s national dish, Kibbeh is a mixture of bulgur, onion, and finely ground lean beef, lamb, or goat meat, seasoned with Middle Eastern spices. It can be served raw, baked, fried, or cooked in broth.
96. Shawarma – Lebanon
A beloved street food, Shawarma is thinly sliced cuts of meat, like chicken, beef, or lamb, marinated and slow-roasted on a rotating spit, served wrapped in pita bread with vegetables and sauce.
97. Fattoush – Lebanon
A Lebanese bread salad made from toasted or fried pieces of pita combined with mixed greens and other vegetables, such as radishes and tomatoes, dressed in a zesty sumac dressing.
98. Manakish – Lebanon
A popular Lebanese food consisting of dough topped with thyme, cheese, or ground meat. Similar to a pizza, it’s often enjoyed for breakfast or lunch.
99. Mujaddara – Lebanon
A comforting dish made with lentils and rice, cooked with onions caramelized to a deep brown, Mujaddara is a delicious, protein-rich meal that’s both simple and satisfying.
100. Sfiha – Lebanon
Open-faced meat pies made with a variety of toppings, including minced lamb or beef mixed with spices and tomatoes. Sfiha is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.
101. Lebanese Rice – Lebanon
A staple side dish, this fragrant rice is cooked with vermicelli noodles, butter, and often pine nuts or slivered almonds, serving as a perfect complement to many Lebanese dishes.
102. Tabbouleh – Lebanon
Another mention for its popularity, Tabbouleh emphasizes the Lebanese love for fresh, herbaceous salads. It’s a vibrant addition to any meal, balancing out richer dishes with its citrusy, herbal freshness.
103. Labneh – Lebanon
A thick, creamy yogurt cheese, Labneh is a versatile component of Lebanese cuisine, served as a dip, spread, or a base for appetizers, garnished with olive oil and herbs.
104. Grilled Halloumi – Lebanon
Halloumi cheese, with its high melting point, is perfect for grilling. This Cypriot cheese has been adopted into Lebanese cuisine, often served with vegetables or incorporated into salads.
105. Lebanese Lentil Soup – Lebanon
A hearty, nourishing soup made with lentils, vegetables, and spices, often finished with a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra kick of flavor. It’s a comforting, warming dish perfect for any season.
