Spanish Radish Blog
Welcome to the Spanish Radish Blog!
Explore the wealth of delicious food, fresh produce, wines, drinks and traditional Spanish recipes. We bring you regular tips, travel guides, and foodie info galore. This is your home of Spanish cooking, culture, and all things Spain.
Recent Blog Posts
Dried vs Canned Chickpeas: Which are healthier?
9th September 2024 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Dried chickpeas have a different nutritional profile compared to canned chickpeas once they are cooked, so which are healthier? In this article, we take a look at which is the healthier choice between dried and canned chickpeas, plus we will also look at some of the pros and drawbacks of each.
How to Cook Chicken Thighs in the Oven – Crispy & Juicy Baked Chicken Thighs
17th August, 2024 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Learn how to cook chicken thighs in the oven perfectly every time with this easy 30-minute recipe. Delicious crispy baked chicken thighs that are so juicy they literally fall off the bone. This recipe is a great weeknight dinner option as there’s no marinading required. Serve alongside your favorite greens, some steamed veg, or salad for a balanced meal.
How to Cook Baked Sweet Potatoes in the OVEN in Under 30 Minutes!
8th August, 2024 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Make perfect, soft tasty baked sweet potatoes every time with this easy cooking hack. This recipe is super easy and literally takes a minute or two for the prep work, then the sweet potatoes go into the oven for around 25 minutes… and that’s it!
The result is super soft baked sweet potatoes ready to be loaded with your favorite toppings.
4 Easy Spanish Tapas Recipes: Quick & affordable Tapas Recipes to Make at Home!
5th August, 2024 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Discover our top 4 easy Spanish Tapas recipes that are quick and simple recipes that can be easily made at home with just a few simple and affordable ingredients! Whether you are planning the most epic tapas party of all time or simply looking to impress for your next date night, we’ve got you with our carefully selected mix of Spanish tapas recipes.
Guide to Salt: What is Healthy and What to Avoid.
14th June, 2024 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Everything you need to know about salt; Why we need salt to survive, why is makes food taste so good, and what is the healthiest salt to consume. We also take a look at some of salts numerous health benefits, including how much salt is good for you and what to look for when buying healthy and mineral-rich salt products.
We have also attached a few links to the types of salt we use in our very own Spanish kitchen.
Spanish Cuisine on the Keto Diet: The Ultimate Guide to Eating in Spain on the Keto Diet.
7th June, 2024 – The Spanish Radish Blog
E
ver wondered if the Mediterranean Diet is compatible with the Keto diet?
In this article, we look at how to enjoy Spanish cuisine on the Keto diet, what the differences and compatibilities are, plus we offer three examples of meal plans where you can enjoy delicious Spanish cuisine on the Keto diet.
Are All Olive Oils Healthy?
29th May, 2024 – The Spanish Radish Blog
I
f you’re reading this, you probably already know that olive oil is good for you and that extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the healthiest of them all. With the skyrocketing price of olive oils this year (2024), I thought it’s worth exploring other oil varieties that are also healthy.
Let’s look at the five olive oil varieties, what health benefits they offer, and their flavor profile. We will also answer Are All Olive Oils Healthy or Just Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
10 Gluten-Free Recipes to Try from the Mediterranean
25th January, 2024 – The Spanish Radish Blog
ooking for some gluten-free recipes for inspiration? We got you with this list of 10 Gluten-Free Recipes to Try from the Mediterranean. From mouthwatering casseroles to healthy and nutritious meals that are loaded with flavor, there’s one thing all these recipes have in common: They’re all Gluten-free.
So, here’s our list of our favorite 10 Gluten-Free Recipes to Try from the Mediterranean! Let’s gooo!
How the Mediterranean Diet Helps with Weight Loss
16th January, 2024 – The Spanish Radish Blog
T
he Mediterranean diet is not just a diet; it’s a lifestyle. It’s a way of eating that has been associated with numerous health benefits, including weight loss. You only have to look to the Mediterranean countries to see how — generally — people look healthier than elsewhere and have a longer lifespan.
The good news: Following this “diet” isn’t a chore, nor is it difficult to follow. Let’s explore how the Mediterranean diet can help weight loss.
11 Cheap Recipes From the Med That Are Delicious and Easy to Make
10th January, 2024 – The Spanish Radish Blog
These are our favorite 11 cheap recipes that are good for the pocket and don’t skimp on flavor. We have chosen our top 11 recipes, including recipes suitable for vegans or vegetarians. In this article, we will also give you an overview of the main ingredients, and how long each takes to make so you can choose your favorites and get cooking.
Without further ado, here are our favorite 11 Cheap Recipes From the Med That Are Delicious and Easy to Make.
7 of the Best Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oils (2024)
1st January, 2024 – The Spanish Radish Blog
O
live oil is a staple in Spanish kitchens that is used for cooking, making sauces, and drizzling over dishes. Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the healthiest, tastiest, and finest quality of all. For that reason, the oils you see on this list are all EVOOs.
Check out our top picks, where to buy Spanish EVOO overseas, and FAQs.
Pintxos (Pinchos) — Recipes and Tips on How to Make These Tasty Snacks at Home
24th November, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Pintxos, or pinchos, are small one-person dishes typically served on a piece of bread pierced with a toothpick or skewer. They are a staple of Basque Country food culture and are particularly synonymous with San Sebastián. As the epicenter of pintxos culture, you can visit hundreds of bars and restaurants in this city and sample these delicious snacks.
Let’s go on a ‘txikiteo’ (pintxos crawl) and look at the most common types of pintxos and discover the Pintxos culture in Spain…
11 Easy Party Snacks to Make this Festive Season (2023)
20th November, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
WIt’s that time of year again and if you’re having people over you’re no doubt looking for party food recipes you can easily make that will still impress your guests. We bring you 11 easy party snacks to make for entertaining.
Discover 11 Easy Party Snacks to Make this Festive Season (2023)…
Spanish Banderillas (The Fastest Party Food You Can Make!)
8th November, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Spanish Banderillas are a type of tapas that feature different pieces of food on a toothpick or skewer. They’re usually a mixture of flavors like something sour, slightly spicy, and sweet. Think mini charcuterie board on a stick. The aim is to make them colorful and tasty, without needing to do any heavy cooking, and many do not require any cooking at all.
From the famous ‘Gilda’ to many other creative and tasty creations, we’ve taste-tested a bunch of flavor combinations and found the best ones. Let’s explore the delicious world of Spanish Banderillas, one morsel at a time!
Chicken Thighs vs. Chicken Breast: Which is Healthier and Tastier?
30th October, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
When it comes to choosing the right cut of chicken for your meals, the decision can be challenging. Should you opt for succulent chicken thighs with their rich flavor, or is the lean and mild taste of chicken breast the better choice?
Well, sometimes it might come down to health factors for you, and other times you might just want the best cut for the recipe. We’ll look at which is healthier first and then how they compare in terms of flavor and cooking versatility.
7 Easy Chicken Recipes That Are Perfect for Weeknight Dinners
23rd October, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Whether you’re looking for a no-fuss recipe that can easily be whipped up for a weeknight meal, or a high-protein post-workout dinner that’s healthy and nutritious, we’ve got you with 7 of our favorite easy chicken recipes that will transport your tastebuds straight to the Mediterranean!
Read more about 7 of our favorite easy chicken recipes here…
Discover The Top 10 Herbs Used in Spanish Cooking (Flavors, Health Benefits, Recipes)
6th October, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Fresh and dried herbs are prominent in just about all savory Spanish dishes, but some are used far more than others! Since Spain is such a geographically diverse country, you’ll find different regions grow different herbs which are of course an influence on the many dishes and recipes from each region.
All are tasty and loaded with nutritious health benefits with each having their own place in traditional and modern Spanish recipes.
The 7 Most Used Spices in Spanish Cooking (Uses, Health Benefits, Recipes)
5th October, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
We’ve found that Spanish cuisine is as diverse as its regions, and its richness lies not only in the abundant choice of fresh ingredients but also in the artful use of spices. Nearly every non-dessert recipe uses at least one spice.
Let’s delve into the core of Spanish cooking to unveil the top seven spices used in Spanish cuisine. We will also discover the dishes they commonly accentuate plus take a look at some of the health benefits that each of these commonly used spices can provide.
Unlocking the Power of the Mediterranean Diet: Protein-Rich Foods & Recipes
27th September, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
The Mediterranean diet is renowned the world over for being one of the healthiest diets. There is, however, more than one common theme that arises when looking at what makes the Mediterranean diet so healthy. The most evident is that it is not a diet, per se, but a lifestyle, and there is one country in particular that stands out in terms of lifestyle: Spain.
Discover more about the power of the Mediterranean Diet here…
The Soul of Spanish Cuisine: Sauces for Every Occasion
20th September, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Unlock the world of Spanish sauces and their culinary magic. Learn about the rich history, regional variations, and perfect dish pairings. Discover a Spanish sauce for every occasion!
The Spanish gastronomic landscape is vast, but if we had to point out a single element that ties the multitude of regional cuisines together, it would be the sauces. From the fragrant Romesco to the comforting Alioli, Spanish sauces are more than mere accompaniments — they are the pulse of many Spanish dishes.
Why is the Spanish Lifestyle so Healthy? (Top 10 Reasons)
14th September 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Let’s look at the secrets of the Mediterranean marvel that is Spain and find out why the Spanish lifestyle is so healthy and how you can get on board!
The Spanish lifestyle, admired by many and practiced by millions, holds within its essence the secrets to a healthier and longer life. How? Let’s find out.
3 Winning No-Bake Cheesecakes to Make at Home (Easy & Delicious)
4th September, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Love cheesecakes but don’t know where to start? Can we suggest no-bake cheesecakes if it’s your first time making them at home? So creamy and delicious, no-bake cheesecakes have the added advantages of minimal prep time and obviously no chance of an oven disaster! Here are 3 totally different flavors for you to choose from — all utterly delicious.
Check out 3 winning no-bake cheesecake recipes…
Chill Out With These Refreshingly Cool Seafood Dishes
23rd August, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Discover 5 refreshingly cool seafood recipes to help you escape the heat. There’s nothing like a chilled salad or ceviche on a warm night or a lazy lunch on the weekend.
These are all simple to prepare so that you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time by the pool, having a siesta, or relaxing in your favorite way. Enjoy! Discover 5 refreshingly cool seafood recipes…
7 Stunning Summer Tapas Dishes to Make at Home (Fresh & Simple)
19th August, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Looking for some tasty but easy summer tapas dishes? Here are 7 to whet your appetite. They all require minimal or no cooking, are great for sharing with friends and family, or just pick one a night if you’re wanting a lighter dinner at home when the heat peaks.
Explore the Gastronomic Delights of Spanish Ham: Jamón Ibérico, Jamón Serrano, and Gran Reservas
16th August, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Discover the different types of Spanish ham, including identifying the key differences between Jamón Ibérico, Jamón Serrano, and what makes a Gran Reserva. We’ll also look at how each type of Spanish ham is made, where to buy good Spanish ham, plus offer a few recipes, and answer the most frequently asked questions relating to Spanish ham. Read more about Spanish Ham…
Our 5 Favorite Salads This Summer You Can Enjoy as a Main
12th August, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Beat the heat with these 5 tasty and super satisfying salads. Salads are meant to be fun and a celebration of fresh ingredients and flavors — these tick all the boxes.
From shrimp and avocado salad with a lime and ginger dressing to burrata and tomato salad with a basil and garlic dressing, we think you’ll be making these on repeat too.
Feel Amazing With These 5 Healthy & Tasty Mediterranean Diet Recipes
1st August, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Looking for some inspiration on what to cook this summer (and also some no-cook recipes)? It’s hot where we are, but I’m certainly not complaining as I love the heat! Sometimes a lighter, easier meal is in order though.
Whether it’s hot in your part of the world, or you just want to eat a little healthier, or try new recipes, check these out. These all follow the Mediterranean diet, which at its core, promotes mostly fresh, healthy ingredients.
Summertime Bliss: 7 Quick & Tasty Spanish Recipes to Savor the Flavors of Spain!
27th July 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Keep things cool this summer with 7 Quick & Tasty Spanish Recipes to Savor the Flavors of Spain! Each easy-to-make recipe is made in 30 minutes or less.
Welcome to a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the enchanting land of Spain! Embrace the warmth of summer with our collection of “Summertime Bliss: 7 Quick & Tasty Spanish Recipes to Savor the Flavors of Spain!” These delightful dishes celebrate the essence of Spanish cuisine, offering a burst of vibrant flavors and the simplicity of easy-to-make recipes.
5 Keto Friendly Recipes
15 July, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
We’ve picked our five favorite recipes to make if you’re following a keto diet or trying to reduce your carb intake. You’ll find two chicken dishes, a squid recipe, and two salads.
The keto diet can be tricky to follow since it’s so strict. We bring you 5 easy recipes that are full of flavor and plenty of nutritious ingredients. Straight from our little corner of the Mediterranean Sea to you, we hope you enjoy them wherever you are.
Types of Spanish Chorizo (Flavors, Recipes, and Traditions)
26th May 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Chorizo holds a special place in Spanish cuisine shaped by a strong cultural tradition that has been preserved throughout history. In this article, you’ll discover the different types of chorizo, their origins and history, and why each one is special.
We’ll also look into how chorizo is made, give you some great chorizo recipes, nutritional information, and where to purchase good quality Spanish chorizo in the US, Canada, UK, and Australia.
Spanish Bocadillo – Foodie guide on Spain’s beloved sandwich.
May 8th, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
The Spanish bocadillo is a staple of everyday life. A humble yet iconic pleasure and comfort food at its finest. Bocadillos are made with baguettes or barras de pan (a little wider than a baguette) and the bread is cut lengthways and served around 8 inches long.
Bocadillos will be lovingly filled with anything from tortilla, tuna, Spanish cheese, chorizo, sobrasada, to serrano ham or even jamón ibérico.
Spain dining guide – Spanish meal times and traditions
29th April 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Spain dining guide – Spanish meal times and traditions is the complete guide to what to eat and when. Spend any time in Spain; the first thing you’ll likely discover is the sometimes bizarre hours (compared to many countries) that local bars, restaurants, and eateries keep.
In this article, we’ll spill the beans on typical Spanish mealtimes, plus shed some light on some of the traditional customs that go along with a Spanish meal. Undo your belt buckle, it’s time to eat!
Could olive oil help you lose weight? Secrets from the Mediterranean diet.
April 3rd, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Olive oil is often touted for its many health benefits, including its potential to aid in weight loss. While olive oil is high in calories and fat, its unique composition helps promote weight loss and improve your overall health.
Today, we’re going to focus on the weight loss aspect of consuming olive oil and the research behind it. Plus, we’ll give you tips on how to incorporate olive oil into your diet.
Guide to Spanish Wine: Types, Tasting Notes, Food Pairings
6th March 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Our guide to Spanish wine provides all the top tips you need to know before buying your next bottle. Includes wine types, tasting notes, and food pairings!
Spanish wines are loved by wine enthusiasts all around the world, and it’s fair to say we have an ongoing love affair with them. Since there are so many different types and flavors, you’ll find more than one to pair with any cuisine or dish, making them super versatile.
Spanish Pantry Staples – Secrets from a Spanish Kitchen
February 16th, 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Discover the beauty and convenience of Spanish cooking that’ll have you cooking deliciously easy tapas, quick and filling main meals, and much more in no time! Let’s discover what’s in the pantry of a typical Spanish home and find a few secrets from the Spanish kitchen along the way.
Spanish pantry staples are one of the first things that we discovered and fell in love with when we moved to Spain. It was something of an eye-opener that Spanish food was…
15 of the Best Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oils to Try 2023
1st January 2023 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Discover 15 of the best Spanish extra virgin olive oils to try in 2023 with our complete tasting, EVOO flavor comparison, and buyers guide.
Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is healthy, tasty, and is a pantry staple for many households. Make 2023 your year to explore new varieties, try new recipes with EVOO, and enjoy the health benefits and flavor sensations as a result.
Olive Oil Nutrition Facts
December 19th, 2022 – The Spanish Radish Blog
When it comes to olive oil nutrition, there are a number of facts that may surprise you. The benefits of olive oil stretch far beyond adding flavor to food or cooking with it. We think everyone should be aware of just how powerful this one food item can be, especially extra virgin olive oil (EVOO).
10 Easy Spanish dishes ready in under 1 hour
December 2022 – The Spanish Radish Blog
One of the best things about Spanish dishes is that so many of them are quick and easy to make. With a focus on fresh, flavorsome ingredients, you can still whip up delicious dishes in under one hour.
We’ve chosen 10 of the best that might surprise you with their simplicity but we promise they’re all tasty. From tempting tapas dishes to hearty winter warmers, come on a cooking extravaganza that everyone …
Mediterranean Rice Bowl Recipes (Vegan | Gluten-free | Meal prep)
November 25th, 2022 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Mediterranean rice bowls are easy to make, packed full of different flavors and textures, and as an added bonus, they’re also super healthy. Rice bowls are perfect for meal prepping and making quick and easy midweek dinners.
This recipe guide offers three of the tastiest, healthiest, and easiest rice bowl recipes you can easily make …
Your Guide to Hot Paprika, Smoked Paprika and Sweet Paprika
November 2022 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Discover what spice to use in your favorite recipes with our complete Spanish cooking guide to hot paprika, smoked paprika, and sweet papriika.
Paprika is like no other spice we know of. It’s different in most countries that produce it, and even within Spain, there are huge variations in flavor intensity and color. That’s because different peppers and drying methods are used.
Top 10 Vegan Tapas Recipes (Homemade, Simple, Delicious)
October 27th, 2022 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Vegan tapas recipes in Spanish cuisine offer plenty of variety for vegans, including loads of tasty recipes that can be made with little fuss in the kitchen. With most of the ingredients used forming part of the Mediterranean diet, the focus is usually on finding the freshest and best produce locally…
5 Best Spanish Olive Oil Gift Sets to Give (Christmas 2022)
October 2022 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Discover the best Spanish olive oil and last minute Christmas gift ideas with our comprehensive article on what olive oil gift sets to buy your loved ones this Christmas 2022.
In the Mediterranean, olive oil is often referred to as “green gold” and has been used since ancient civilizations. It’s highly revered for both its culinary contribution as well as its numerous health benefits and continues to be …
Types of Spanish Cheese (The 5 Essentials to Get You Started)
October 10th, 2022 – The Spanish Radish Blog
E
Exploring the various types of Spanish cheese is a pure delight to the tastebuds. From the mountainous northern reaches that offer smooth and creamy cow’s milk cheese such as the Idiazabal and tetilla cheeses, to the central plains of Castilla La-Mancha, where award-winning manchego cheese can be found abundantly.
Let’s start by saying that if you’re a cheese lover (like us) then all …
Madrid Tapas Walking Tours (Self-guided | 4 Free Route Maps)
August 2022 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Discover the best Madrid tapas bars and restaurants with our complete tapas tour route maps, including what to eat, and where to find it!
From cozy tapas bars tucked away from the hustle and bustle to lively bars serving impeccable tapas morsels, we’ve done the hard yards and sampled a lot of tapas bars throughout Madrid to bring you 4 Free self-guided tapas tour maps!
Tapas Valencia Walking Tour (Self-Guided, Free Map)
Aug 1st, 2022 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Explore the riches of Valencian tapas like a local with our free tapas Valencia walking tour, complete with all the info you need to show you the very best tapas dishes, where to find them, and what not to miss!
We’ve done the hard yards and sampled our way through Valencia one mouthful at a time to bring you this comprehensive tapas guide…
10 Lazy Summer Dinner Ideas From the Mediterranean.
June 2022 – The Spanish Radish Blog
With summer in full swing, cooking summer recipes can quickly become the last thing on our minds as we drift within the hazy summertime heat. Hence it’s time to crack out some lazy summer dinner ideas that give you less time in the kitchen and more time by the pool!
The Bizcocho Diary
May 28th, 2022 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Of all the things that moving to Spain has taught me, I think that patience is the most valuable lesson learned. It has taken me considerable effort to break free from my ‘go-faster’ lifestyle and attitude of the past and embrace the slower, and more relaxed pace that life in Spain has to offer. Perhaps, one of the most telling examples, is food.
5 Authentic Spanish recipes prepared in under 30 minutes!
April 2022 – The Spanish Radish Blog
From discovering traditional Spanish recipes that have been handed down through generations, to exploring the beating pulse of what’s hot in the best kitchens in cities all over Spain. We’ve created this list to guide you through some of our favorite Spanish recipes, and all of them are super easy to make and can be whipped up in 30 minutes or less!
5 of the Best Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oils to Try in 2022
February 13th, 2022 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Spain produces more than half of the olive oil made in the entire world! It comes as no surprise then that this liquid gold is highly revered in the country and many of the best olive oils come from Spain. Before getting into some of the tastiest olive oils to try, let’s look at the main olive oil-producing regions around Spain.
Mediterranean Diet Secrets:
Feed the body, senses & mind.
November 2021 – The Spanish Radish Blog
It’s no secret that the Mediterranean diet is healthy. It has been proven in numerous studies from all corners of the world, it aids weight loss, reduces the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, as well as a growing list of other health benefits. But what’s most exciting is that the diet creates some incredibly tasty and simple dishes, with many a staple for most Spanish households!
Paella now officially protected as a cultural treasure
November 11th 2021 – The Spanish Radish Blog
On the 9th of November 2021, the Valencian government published in its official gazette that paella is to be protected so that its virtues are safeguarded for future generations. It states, “Paella is an icon of the Mediterranean diet, because of both its ingredients and its characteristics as a representation of Valencian culture.” It’s revered because paella celebrates the “art of unity and sharing”.
Top 10 Best Traditional Spanish Dishes You Need to Know!
September 2021 – The Spanish Radish Blog
Mention Spanish food to anyone and the first thing that’s likely to come to mind is tapas. These small appetizers are served throughout the day or night and usually accompany a drink, typically a small beer or wine.
Spanish cuisine is far richer in culinary delights than the mere tapas, however, and discovering Spanish cuisine and traditional recipes is a hugely enriching experience that must be shared….. Read more.
Spanish Regional Foodie Guides
Got the travel bug? We've made loads of Foodie guides to help!
Travel anywhere in Spain and you’ll discover plentiful cuisine. Delicious local dishes made using the freshest local ingredients. From the rugged coastline of the Galicia to the crystal clear turquoise waters of the Mediterranean sea. Spain's coastline is as diverse as the seafood dishes that are inspired by generations.
Venture inland and discover vast grazing plains bordered by mountainous regions that buzz with altitude farming and rich dairy industry. Spain is a wonder of foods, and truly a foodie’s heaven!