Discover the cuisine of the Costa Blanca and Marina Alta region
Cuisine of the region Costa Blanca and Marina Alta is a true feast for the palate, combining the tradition, fresh ingredients and authentic flavors of the Mediterranean. The foundation of the area’s culinary identity is fresh fish, seafood, vegetables, aromatic olive oil, juicy citrus and local wines. During your stay, enjoy both classic dishes such as the famous paellaas well as local specialties that highlight the rich culinary diversity and are a true tribute to traditional flavors of this part of Spain. Below you will find an overview of typical dishes and culinary customsthat are worth discovering in Costa Blanca and Marina Alta.
1. paella and arroz (rice)
One of the most famous dishes throughout Spain, and especially on the Costa Blanca, is the paella. Although paella is popular throughout the country, it is on the Valencia coast (in this region) that it has its roots. Depending on the location, you can try different versions of this dish:
- Paella Valenciana – A traditional paella with chicken, rabbit, vegetables, beans and rice. Some versions also add saffron, which gives it a unique golden color.
- Arroz a banda – Rice cooked in fish broth, often with the addition of seafood, as in the version of the Arroz del Marisco. It is a classic dish along the coast, especially in the Dénia and Jávea areas.
2. Seafood
The Costa Blanca region and Marina Alta are known for their abundance of seafood, including fish, clams, shrimp, octopus, squid and crawfish. They can be found in many dishes, including paella, but also in simple and delicious dishes such as:
- Caldereta de langosta – is a one-pot dish of crawfish cooked in an aromatic broth that is especially popular in Dénia, one of the main fishing ports on the Costa Blanca.
Arroz con calamares – Rice cooked with calamari, often served with the addition of tomatoes and garlic.
3. Tart de Santiago and other desserts
In the Costa Blanca region you can also taste traditional desserts, such as:
- Tarta de Santiago – An almond cake originating in Galicia, which has also gained popularity in that region. It is a delicate almond cake, often dusted with powdered sugar and decorated with a St. James cross.
- Arroz con leche – a popular rice and milk-based dessert that is sweet, creamy and spiced with cinnamon. It’s one of Spain’s favorite desserts, and you’ll find it in most restaurants in the region.
- Helados – ice cream, which is particularly delicious in the Marina Alta region, with local fruits such as. figs or lemons.
4. Olive oil and citrus
The Costa Blanca region is famous for growing olives and producing extra virgin olive oil, which is the foundation of Mediterranean cuisine. Many local restaurants and farms produce their own oil, which can be purchased directly from the producers. Citrus, especially oranges i lemons, are also abundantly grown in the region, which influences the taste of dishes, desserts and drinks. Limonade is a delicious drink that is often prepared with fresh lemons.
5. Tapas and appetizers
Tapas culture is present throughout Spain, and the Costa Blanca and Marina Alta region is no exception. In restaurants and bars you can try:
- Boquerones en vinagre – Marinated sardines, often served with olives and pieces of bread.
- Tortilla Española – A classic Spanish tortilla, prepared with potatoes and eggs and served in various variations.
- Piquillos – peppers stuffed with meat, fish or cheese, which are one of the more popular tapas in the region.
6. Wines
The Costa Blanca is also a well-known wine region, and the wines in the area have a long-standing tradition. White, red and rosé wines produced in the region, especially in areas such as the TO Alicante i TO Valencia, are valued for their quality. Worth a try Muscat wines i Monastrell – characteristic of the region.
7. Local cuisine of Marina Alta
Region Marina Alta, which includes Pego, Dénia, Jávea and other towns, also has its own distinctive dishes:
- Coca – is a type of flat cake, often served as an appetizer, with various toppings such as vegetables, sardines or cream.
- Fideuá – A dish similar to paella, but instead of rice, pasta is used. Served mainly with seafood.
- Gambas rojas – red shrimp that are fresh and highly prized in the region, often served in their simplest form, with a little salt and olive oil.
