Q: What are popular appetizers in Spain?

In case you’re planning to serve an aperitivo , typical choices would be, olives in brine, potato chips, some slices of cheese ( manchego is a good choice), a bit of jamón serrano or other local cold cuts, berberechos (cockles), anchovies, croquettes are all popular choices. All savory and in small bites, is the prerequisite.

Question 1

What is a typical Spanish merienda?

Accepted Answer

Traditionally this late afternoon snack was usually comprised of a sandwich (bocadillo), some milk and cookies (the famous galletas María) or just a piece of bread with some chocolate or drizzled with olive oil.

Nowadays, options are more varied and sometimes healthier… a yoghurt, a piece of fruit or a fruit juice, or if more indulgent, a small pastry, a cold-cut or cheese sandwich, chocolate milk, or even some churros con chocolate (depending on which part of Spain you live).

Question 2

How long are Spanish lunches?

Accepted Answer

Lunch break usually lasts for around 2 hours, sometimes up to 3 hours, but most frequently you will find it to be 2 hours. Lunch is not rushed and is a sit-down meal, not meant to be had on the go, while in your car or walking.

Question 3

What are popular appetizers in Spain?

Accepted Answer

In case you’re planning to serve an aperitivo, typical choices would be, olives in brine, potato chips, some slices of cheese (manchego is a good choice), a bit of jamón serrano or other local cold cuts, berberechos (cockles), anchovies, croquettes are all popular choices.

All savory and in small bites, is the prerequisite.

Question 4

How much coffee do Spaniards drink?

Accepted Answer

A lot and often. It’s very typical in Spain to start your day with a quick cup of coffee for that early caffeine fix, usually followed by another cup of coffee around noon time. After lunch, another drink of coffee is almost mandatory, as the cherry on top of your usually heavier meal.

A mid-afternoon coffee (together with your afternoon snack) might ensue to help keep you going throughout the rest of the day. And a cup of coffee after dinner might happen as well, more often than not.

A tip: The most popular coffee drink that Spaniards have for breakfast is a café con leche (café au lait), with a ratio of 1:1 espresso and milk.

Question 5

What is a typical Spanish lunch?

Accepted Answer

A Spanish lunch will be normally comprised of several courses:

A first course (primer plato), usually a salad, legumes, a soup or a light pasta dish; then your main course (segundo plato), typically a stew, grilled or pan-fried meat, chicken or fish, a paella, etc.; and then dessert (postre) and coffee (café). And always, bread on the side.

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