Spanish cuisine, known for its rich flavors and diverse influences, offers an array of side dishes that perfectly complement its main courses.
These delightful accompaniments range from the simple to the sublime, each promising a taste of Spain’s culinary heart.
Feel the sun on your skin, pour yourself a Sangria, and indulge in our top picks of the best Spanish side dishes to give you the flavor of the Mediterranean in your own home.
An iconic dish from the Balearic Islands, Tumbet beautifully layers baked vegetables in a tomato sauce, capturing the essence of the Mediterranean in every bite.
Flavor Profile: A symphony of vegetables, predominantly featuring eggplants, bell peppers, and potatoes, unified with a robust tomato sauce often infused with garlic and fresh herbs.
Our Top Tip: Slice the vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking. Pre-frying each vegetable separately before layering can enhance the flavors.
Pairing: Tumbet serves as a wonderful accompaniment to grilled meats, especially lamb or chicken. For a pescatarian twist, it pairs well with grilled fish or shrimp.
Bursting with vibrant colors and flavors, the Spanish Bean Salad combines beans, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing to create a refreshing yet hearty side dish.
Flavor Profile: This salad offers a mix of creamy beans, crunchy vegetables, and a dressing rich with olive oil, vinegar, and aromatic spices. The flavors meld together to create a delightful balance of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet notes.
Our Top Tip: Using a mix of beans like chickpeas, kidney beans, and white beans adds variety in texture and flavor. Allow the salad to marinate for a few hours before serving to enhance the taste.
Pairing: This salad pairs excellently with grilled meats, especially chorizo or grilled chicken. It can also st
A treasured dish from the Canary Islands, these small potatoes boast a unique wrinkled appearance and salty crust, a result of their distinct cooking method.
Flavor Profile: The potatoes have a dense and dry texture, heightened by a strong salty exterior, making them an irresistible bite.
Our Top Tip: Use small potatoes for the best results. Cook them in heavily salted water or sea water, if available, until they’re tender but not falling apart.
Pairing: Traditionally served with mojo picon (a spicy red sauce) or mojo verde (a green herb and garlic sauce). The potatoes’ simple flavor allows them to complement a variety of dishes, especially grilled fish, meats, and various Canarian specialties.
In Summary
Spanish side dishes are more than just accompaniments; they are a journey into the vibrant culture and rich history of Spain.
From the crisp freshness of a mixed salad to the creamy allure of croquetas, these dishes capture the essence of Spanish dining.
As you explore these sides, let them transport you to the bustling streets of Madrid or the serene landscapes of Andalusia.
I'm Barbara Hunt, the founder of WomenChefs.org. Being a mom of two, I understand the challenges of meal planning and the monotony it can bring.
That's why I created WomenChefs.org, a platform dedicated to showcasing the skills and delicious dishes crafted by amazing women. My goal is to provide a space where women can find delectable recipes that tantalize their taste buds and ignite their senses.
I hope you'll join me in exploring WomenChefs.org and discovering your next favorite recipe. Let's embrace culinary diversity and try something new together!
