Authentic Spanish Seafood Recipes

By Edu Valor / Author - Spanish Chef

Fishing is big business in my country, and that’s why they offer such an incredible variety of Spanish seafood recipes. From succulent roasted sardines (like espeto) to refined dishes perfect for fine dining.

In our family, we had it on the table at least twice a week. If it wasn’t seafood paella, it would be fried hake, sardines, mackerel, boquerones, calamari, grilled shrimp (gambas a la plancha), and the long list goes on.

My mouth is watering as I write this. There are so many ways to prepare them, and I can just imagine a table full of these wonderful seafood dishes.

Cod with pil pil sauce (Bacalao al pil pil) on a bed of roasted potato slices.

Spain has an extensive coastline that offers a wide variety of seafood. Indoor markets, or mercados, typically feature several shops with a broad selection of fish and shellfish.

Seafood is deeply rooted in Spanish culture and is a staple of its cuisine. Galicia, Cádiz, Cantabria, Asturias, and the Basque Country are especially known for their fishing ports and dishes.

As home to one of the most important fishing industries in Europe and with a rich, long-standing tradition, Spain blends the modern with the classic.

From bacalao al pil pil to pulpo a la gallega, and pescadito frito! A great way to sample a variety is by visiting traditional fish festivals or local markets, which can offer plenty of delicious options without breaking the bank.

Seafood festivals are a wonderful opportunity to enjoy Spain’s creations while soaking in the lively atmosphere. Unless you prefer a cozy, rustic restaurant where everything is prepared the traditional or modern way.

I love these warm, homey places with wood finishes.

Nearly every restaurant in Spain offers several seafood dishes. Honestly, I’ve never seen one without!

The Casa de la Moneda restaurant in Seville is set in a historical building.

Where do you Begin?

With so much to choose from, you may want to start by thinking how you like your seafood. Broiled? Steamed? In a stew? Or maybe you prefer it crispy and fried?

Bacalao (cod) and merluza (hake) are staples in Spain, but don’t forget about the others: dorada (gilt-head bream), lubina (sea bass), caballa (mackerel), sardina (sardine), boquerones (anchovies), atún (tuna), and trucha (trout).

That’s just a small sample, and they’re all delicious! I enjoy broiled and fried fish. With some veggies or ensaladilla rusa, you really can’t go wrong. These are real treats on warm days.

Combined with certain shellfish or calamari, it becomes something you'll definitely want to share—or maybe not!

Stews are also a great option. Merluza a la vasca (a hake dish) is a dish I’d recommend to anyone. Or perhaps marmitako (a tuna stew)? I’m always up for one of these delicious fish or seafood stews.

Shrimp in Jerez sauce (gambas al Jerez)

...and then there's of course something more special, like the zarzuela. It’s mouthwatering—and the price reflects it. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!

Zarzuela is more of a classy seafood soup than a stew, with clams, calamari, fish, langoustines, shrimp, and sometimes even lobster.

What is it about fish and shellfish that makes us almost addicted to them? Spaniards enjoy seafood so much that they have it almost on a daily basis.

Spanish Seafood Recipes to Lift your Spirit

I might have the perfect solution if you can’t make up your mind: a rich seafood paella! Just think about it—several types of seafood combined in a dish that isn't quite a stew.

Parts of it can be eaten with your hands, and it keeps well for the next day! It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser and always looks appetizing.

Having seafood paella is almost like throwing a party. Open a bottle of dry white wine or cava, and you’ve got a great way to lift your spirits, even on a bad day!

If you want the most out of Spanish seafood recipes, by all means, try an ultimate comfort food like the paella de mariscos (shellfish paella) below.

A rich, appetizing lobster paella (paella de bogavante) simmering on a gas burner.

Edu's Tasty Seafood Recipes

Marmitako de Atun

Merluza a la Koskera