Juicy Spanish Fish Recipes

By Edu Valor / Author - Spanish Chef

The fish industry is massive in my country, fueling the rich tradition of delicious Spanish fish recipes. We have these at least twice a week.

I regularly make fried boquerones, mackerel, sardines, oven-baked dorada, merluza, and bacalao dishes. This habit is a tradition in my family.

We never run short of Omega-3!

Spanish bacalao al pil pil sauce on a plate with bear and croquettesBacalao al Pil Pil, a cod dish with pil pil sauce.

Spain's Secret Fish Cuisine

Fishing vessels cast their nets in both national and international waters, reaching as far as the coasts of the Americas, making Spain one of the largest fishing industries in Europe.

Galicia serves as the heart of it, with Vigo and La Coruña as the most important ports. Vigo, in particular, ranks among the largest ports in the world.

We Spaniards see the northwest of the country as the ultimate destination for top-of-the-line fish dishes. From the Basque Country to Galicia, the region is highly recommended for anyone who loves fish and seafood.

The nearer you are to a fishing port the better!

Spanish monkfish with mushroom brochette on a plate with red sauce.Monkfish Brochettes to whet your appetite!

Laws are becoming stricter to prioritize sustainability and reduce the industry’s environmental footprint.

Tuna and hake remain in high demand, which has led to stricter quotas to prevent overfishing.

Fortunately, swordfish serves as a substitute for tuna. While it’s not exactly the same, the taste is quite similar—and honestly, I think it’s very good!

Where to Find the Best Fish?

Almost every medium to large town in Spain has a market (mercado de abastos) with individual stalls offering fresh fish and seafood. These markets are deeply ingrained in Spanish culture and are as common as any other type of store.

They are truly staples of the Spanish diet, we consume a good amount of seafood each week.

Marmitako Spanish tuna potato stew in a bowl with breadDelicious marmitako, one of the finer tuna stews.


Indoor markets offer an abundance of natural foods, with the freshest fish available—especially in towns near fishing ports. While you’re there, you can also find all the other ingredients you need to create delicious Spanish fish recipes.

Explore some of them below! Enjoy!


Edu's Delicious Fish Recipes

Spanish eel with potato stew on a dish.All I Pebre (eel-pepper stew)