30 Best Vegetarian Food in Spain: A Tour Guide’s Ultimate Guide

Are you interested in discovering the best vegetarian food in Spain? In this article, I’ve compiled a guide to the 30 Best Vegetarian Dishes in Spain, drawing from my experiences as a professional tour guide who’s hosted over 100 guests each year. This guide will help you explore the rich vegetarian cuisine of Spain, offering a variety of dishes that showcase the country's unique flavors and culinary traditions. Let's dive in!

Main Dishes  

Tortilla Española

This dish is a staple of Spanish cuisine, loved for its simplicity and comforting taste. The tortilla is a thick, savory omelette made with eggs, potatoes, and onions. The potatoes are thinly sliced and slowly cooked in olive oil until soft, then mixed with beaten eggs and cooked until golden brown. Its flavor is rich and slightly sweet from the onions, while the potatoes create a satisfying texture. It can be served warm or cold, often in a sandwich or as part of a tapas spread.  

• Ingredients: Eggs, potatoes, onions, olive oil, salt.  
• Vegan: No, but can be made vegan by using egg substitutes.

Paella de Verduras  

A vegetable version of the world-famous paella, this dish is a vibrant, flavorful mix of rice, saffron, and an assortment of vegetables. The rice is cooked in vegetable broth, absorbing all the flavors of the saffron, garlic, and olive oil. The vegetables such as bell peppers, artichokes, and peas add texture and freshness, while the saffron gives the dish a beautiful golden color and a mild, aromatic flavor. Paella de Verduras is a fulfilling and aromatic meal, perfect for those who want a meatless option.  

• Ingredients: Rice, saffron, bell peppers, peas, artichokes, tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, vegetable broth.  
• Vegan: Yes.

Pisto  

A vegetable stew that’s reminiscent of the French ratatouille, pisto features a mix of tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers. It’s cooked slowly in olive oil, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften. The dish is often served with a fried egg on top, adding richness to the dish. Pisto is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a comforting and hearty meal. The sweetness of the tomatoes and peppers balances the slight bitterness of the zucchini, while the olive oil ties everything together.  

• Ingredients: Tomatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, onion, garlic, olive oil, paprika, egg (optional).  
• Vegan: Yes.

Escalivada  

This dish from Catalonia is all about grilled vegetables, especially eggplant, red peppers, and onions. The vegetables are roasted until their skins are charred, imparting a smoky flavor that makes the dish truly unique. The vegetables are then peeled and mixed with garlic and olive oil, enhancing their natural sweetness. The smoky aroma and tender texture of the vegetables make escalivada a delightful side dish or even a light meal. It’s often served with bread or as a topping for grilled meats.  

• Ingredients: Eggplant, red peppers, onions, garlic, olive oil, salt.  
• Vegan: Yes.

Garbanzos con Espinacas

This dish combines two hearty ingredients—chickpeas and spinach—into a rich stew. The chickpeas add a nutty and creamy texture, while the spinach gives a slightly earthy flavor. The stew is often spiced with paprika and cumin, adding warmth and depth to the dish. Garbanzos con Espinacas is a simple yet satisfying dish, perfect for colder months when you want something filling and nutritious. The combination of legumes and greens makes it an excellent source of protein and fiber.  

• Ingredients: Chickpeas, spinach, garlic, olive oil, paprika, cumin.  
• Vegan: Yes.

Patatas a lo Pobre  

This rustic dish is all about the humble potato. Thinly sliced potatoes, onions, and green peppers are sautéed together in olive oil until they become soft and caramelized. The dish is simple, but the combination of flavors and textures makes it incredibly satisfying. The sweetness from the onions and peppers complements the richness of the potatoes, while the olive oil adds a Mediterranean touch. Patatas a lo Pobre is a great accompaniment to grilled meats or seafood, but it’s also delicious on its own.  

• Ingredients: Potatoes, onions, green peppers, garlic, olive oil, salt.  
• Vegan: Yes.

Tapas & Small Plates  

Pan con Tomate  

One of the simplest yet most beloved Spanish tapas, pan con tomate is toasted bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. The tomatoes give the bread a juicy, fresh flavor, while the garlic adds an aromatic kick. The olive oil adds richness and ties everything together. Pan con tomate is a perfect snack or appetizer, and it’s often served alongside other tapas like olives or cheese. It’s a great example of how the simplest ingredients can create something wonderfully satisfying.  

• Ingredients: Bread, tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, salt.  
• Vegan: Yes.

Pimientos de Padrón  

These small, green peppers are a popular Spanish tapas dish. They’re sautéed in olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt. Most of the peppers are mild and sweet, but occasionally, you’ll bite into one that’s unexpectedly spicy, making each bite an exciting surprise. The combination of salt and oil enhances the natural flavor of the peppers, creating a savory and satisfying snack. Pimientos de Padrón are great for sharing with friends and enjoying alongside a glass of wine.  

• Ingredients: Padrón peppers, olive oil, sea salt.  
• Vegan: Yes.

Aceitunas Aliñadas  

Marinated olives are a staple of Spanish cuisine, and aceitunas aliñadas are some of the best. These olives are soaked in olive oil, garlic, and various herbs, allowing them to absorb all the flavors. The result is a dish that’s rich, savory, and slightly tangy. The olives are often served with a glass of wine, making them the perfect appetizer or side dish. Their briny taste pairs wonderfully with cheese, cured meats, or fresh bread.  

• Ingredients: Olives, garlic, herbs (rosemary, thyme), olive oil.  
• Vegan: Yes.

Croquetas de Setas o Espinacas  

These crispy croquettes are a beloved tapa, and they’re often filled with mushrooms (setas) or spinach (espinacas). The croquettes are coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden and crispy on the outside, while the filling remains creamy and flavorful on the inside. The mushrooms give the croquettes an earthy, umami flavor, while the spinach provides a slight bitterness that balances the richness of the béchamel sauce. These croquettes are perfect for sharing at a tapas table. 

• Ingredients: Mushrooms or spinach, béchamel sauce, breadcrumbs, flour, butter, milk, olive oil, garlic, salt.  
• Vegan: Can be made vegan with plant-based milk and egg substitutes.

Champiñones al Ajillo  

Sautéed mushrooms with garlic is a simple yet incredibly flavorful tapas dish. The garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth to the mushrooms, while the olive oil enriches their texture. The dish is typically finished with parsley for a touch of freshness. The mushrooms absorb the garlic and olive oil, creating a savory, satisfying bite. Champiñones al Ajillo is perfect as a light tapa, especially when paired with a glass of red wine.  

• Ingredients: Mushrooms, garlic, olive oil, parsley, salt.  
• Vegan: Yes.

Berenjenas con Miel  

Fried eggplant is drizzled with honey in this sweet-and-savory tapa. The rich, slightly bitter flavor of the eggplant is complemented by the sweetness of the honey, creating a unique and indulgent taste. The eggplant is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, while the honey adds a smooth sweetness that balances the savory notes. This dish is especially popular in Andalusia and is often served as a tapa to accompany wine or sherry.  

• Ingredients: Eggplant, honey, olive oil, salt.  
• Vegan: Not unless made with agave or another vegan sweetener.

Gazpacho  

Gazpacho is a refreshing cold soup that’s perfect for hot summer days. It’s made with a base of ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, and green peppers, blended together with olive oil and vinegar for a tangy, fresh flavor. The texture is smooth, and the soup is light but satisfying. It’s often garnished with finely chopped vegetables for added crunch. Gazpacho is an excellent way to enjoy raw vegetables in a cool, flavorful form. 

• Ingredients: Tomatoes, cucumbers, green peppers, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, salt, bread (optional).  
• Vegan: Yes.

Salmorejo  

A thicker, creamier version of gazpacho, salmorejo is made with a base of tomatoes, bread, and olive oil. The soup has a rich, velvety texture that’s almost like a cold tomato paste, and the flavor is deeply savory and tangy. It’s often garnished with hard-boiled eggs and jamón (cured ham), but the vegan version skips these toppings. Salmorejo is filling and refreshing, making it a popular choice for a light meal or appetizer.  

• Ingredients: Tomatoes, bread, olive oil, garlic, vinegar, salt.  
• Vegan: Yes (without egg toppings).

Espárragos a la Plancha  

Grilled asparagus is a simple but delicious dish. The asparagus is cooked on a hot grill or griddle, which enhances its natural sweetness and gives it a smoky flavor. The spears remain tender but slightly crispy on the outside, and the olive oil adds a silky finish. Espárragos a la Plancha is often served with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra layer of flavor. It’s a great side dish to any meal or a light snack.

• Ingredients: Asparagus, olive oil, sea salt.  
• Vegan: Yes.

Queso Manchego  

This is a well-known Spanish cheese made from sheep’s milk in the La Mancha region. It has a firm texture and a slightly nutty flavor that becomes sharper with age. The cheese is typically served in wedges, often with a drizzle of honey or quince paste. The rich, savory flavor of Manchego pairs well with wine or cured meats, making it a great addition to a tapas spread.  

• Ingredients: Manchego cheese (sheep’s milk).  
• Vegan: No.

Salads & Vegetable Dishes  

Ensaladilla Rusa (Sin Atún)  

Ensaladilla Rusa is a classic Spanish salad made with boiled potatoes, carrots, peas, and sometimes tuna, but the vegetarian version omits the tuna. The vegetables are mixed with a creamy mayonnaise, creating a rich and satisfying dish. The potatoes and carrots are soft, while the peas provide a bit of sweetness and crunch. The creamy dressing ties everything together, and the dish is often garnished with olives or boiled eggs for added flavor and texture. It’s a refreshing and comforting salad, often served chilled.  

• Ingredients: Potatoes, carrots, peas, mayonnaise, olives, boiled eggs (optional).  
• Vegan: Yes (if made with vegan mayonnaise).

Ensalada de Naranja y Aceitunas 

This is a refreshing and slightly tangy salad combining the sweetness of oranges with the briny flavor of olives. The citrusy notes of the orange contrast beautifully with the salty olives, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The salad is typically dressed with olive oil and vinegar, adding a bit of sharpness. Some versions also include thinly sliced onions for a bit of bite. It’s a simple, healthy, and refreshing dish, often served as a starter or side dish.  

• Ingredients: Oranges, olives, onion (optional), olive oil, vinegar, salt.  
• Vegan: Yes.

Setas a la Plancha  

This is a simple yet delicious dish of grilled mushrooms, often prepared with wild varieties. The mushrooms are cooked on a griddle or grill with olive oil and garlic, allowing their natural umami flavor to shine. The result is a dish that’s tender yet slightly crispy on the edges, with a rich, earthy taste. A sprinkle of parsley or a squeeze of lemon can be added for extra flavor. Setas a la Plancha is a great side dish or tapa, and it’s perfect for mushroom lovers.  

• Ingredients: Mushrooms, garlic, olive oil, parsley, salt, lemon (optional).  
• Vegan: Yes.

Bread & Snacks  

Churros con Chocolate  

Churros con chocolate is a beloved Spanish treat, often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack. The churros are crispy, golden, and dusted with sugar, while the hot chocolate is thick and rich, perfect for dipping. The combination of the warm, sugary churros with the deep, chocolatey dip makes this dish an indulgent and satisfying experience. It’s a fun, comforting treat that’s perfect for sharing, and it pairs wonderfully with a coffee or hot drink.  

• Ingredients: Flour, water, sugar, salt, chocolate, milk (for chocolate).  
• Vegan: Yes (with vegan chocolate).

Bocadillo de Tortilla  

A bocadillo de tortilla is a Spanish sandwich that consists of a thick slice of tortilla española (Spanish omelette) served in a baguette. The warm tortilla is soft on the inside, while the bread provides a satisfying crunch. The combination of the rich, eggy tortilla and the crusty bread makes for a filling and delicious meal. It’s often eaten for lunch or as a snack, and it’s a great way to enjoy tortilla española in a more portable form.  

• Ingredients: Baguette, tortilla española (eggs, potatoes, onions).  
• Vegan: No, unless made with a vegan tortilla.

Coca de Verduras  

Coca de verduras is a savory pastry from Catalonia, often compared to a pizza but with a puff pastry base. The pastry is topped with a variety of roasted or grilled vegetables such as peppers, onions, tomatoes, and zucchini. The vegetables are seasoned with olive oil and herbs, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish. The dough is light and crispy, providing a perfect contrast to the soft vegetables. It’s a popular snack or appetizer, perfect for sharing.  

• Ingredients: Puff pastry, peppers, onions, zucchini, tomatoes, olive oil, herbs.  
• Vegan: Yes.

Empanada de Verduras  

An empanada de verduras is a savory pastry filled with a mixture of vegetables, often including spinach, onions, peppers, and tomatoes. The vegetables are cooked with olive oil and seasonings, then encased in a flaky, golden pastry dough. The result is a satisfying and flavorful snack or meal. The flaky exterior contrasts beautifully with the tender vegetable filling, making it a perfect handheld dish for lunch or dinner.  

• Ingredients: Pastry dough, spinach, onions, peppers, tomatoes, olive oil, garlic.  
• Vegan: Yes.

Tostada con Aceite y Tomate  

This is a simple yet delicious Spanish snack made with toasted bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes and drizzled with olive oil. The combination of the sweet, juicy tomato and the rich olive oil creates a burst of flavor, while the crispy toast provides texture. Tostada con aceite y tomate is often eaten for breakfast or as a light snack. Sometimes, garlic or salt is added for extra flavor. It’s a great example of how basic ingredients can create a delightful dish.  

• Ingredients: Bread, tomatoes, olive oil, garlic (optional), salt.  
• Vegan: Yes.

Desserts  

Flan  

Flan is a classic Spanish dessert that’s creamy, smooth, and indulgent. It’s made with eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla, then slowly baked in a water bath to create a delicate custard. The flan is usually topped with a layer of caramel sauce that adds sweetness and a slightly bitter contrast to the creamy base. The texture is velvety and soft, making it a satisfying and comforting dessert that’s loved by people of all ages.  

• Ingredients: Eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, caramel.  
• Vegan: No, but can be made vegan with plant-based milk and egg substitutes.

Tarta de Santiago  

This almond cake is named after the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, and it’s a sweet, dense, and nutty dessert. Made with ground almonds, sugar, and eggs, it has a rich, moist texture that’s complemented by a dusting of powdered sugar on top, often with the cross of Santiago imprinted on it. Tarta de Santiago is traditionally served as a celebratory dessert and is particularly popular during festivals or holidays.  

• Ingredients: Ground almonds, sugar, eggs, lemon zest, powdered sugar.  
• Vegan: No, unless made with egg substitutes.

Crema Catalana  

Crema catalana is a rich custard dessert similar to crème brûlée, but it’s made with milk rather than cream. The custard is flavored with cinnamon and lemon zest, giving it a refreshing, aromatic taste. The top is caramelized to create a crispy, sugary crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy custard beneath. This dessert is a popular treat in Catalonia and offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors.  

• Ingredients: Milk, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, lemon zest.  
• Vegan: No, but can be made vegan with plant-based milk and egg substitutes.

Leche Frita  

Leche frita is a traditional Spanish dessert made from milk, sugar, and flour, which is thickened into a custard-like mixture and then fried. The result is a crispy, golden exterior with a creamy, smooth interior. The dessert is typically dusted with sugar and cinnamon, adding a touch of sweetness and spice. Leche frita is a comforting and nostalgic dish that’s enjoyed by many as a treat.  

• Ingredients: Milk, sugar, flour, eggs, cinnamon, sugar.  
• Vegan: No, but can be made vegan with plant-based milk and egg substitutes.

Arroz con Leche  

Arroz con leche is a classic Spanish rice pudding made with rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon. The rice is cooked slowly in the milk, absorbing the creamy liquid and becoming soft and tender. The dish is sweet and comforting, with the cinnamon providing a warm, aromatic finish. Arroz con leche is a beloved dessert, often eaten as a comforting snack or after a meal. It’s creamy and rich, perfect for those who enjoy milky, dessert-style dishes.  

• Ingredients: Rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, lemon zest.  
• Vegan: No, but can be made vegan with plant-based milk.

Turrón  

Turrón is a traditional Spanish nougat made with almonds, honey, sugar, and egg whites. The texture is firm and crunchy, with the almonds providing a satisfying bite. Turrón is typically enjoyed during Christmas but can be found year-round in Spain. It’s sweet, nutty, and has a lovely depth of flavor from the honey. Turrón is often cut into small squares and enjoyed as a treat or dessert.  

• Ingredients: Almonds, honey, sugar, egg whites.  
• Vegan: No, but can be made vegan with egg substitutes.

How to Order Vegetarian Food in Spain

Spain is famous for its rich culinary traditions, but for vegetarians, knowing how to order food can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you navigate Spain’s food scene with ease.

Key Spanish Phrases for Vegetarians

To make sure you’re ordering the right dish, it’s important to know the key phrases that will help communicate your dietary preferences:

• Soy vegetariano/a (I am vegetarian)
• ¿Tienen opciones vegetarianas? (Do you have vegetarian options?)
• ¿Este plato tiene carne? (Does this dish have meat?)
• No como pescado (I don’t eat fish)
• ¿Este plato tiene caldo de carne? (Does this dish have meat broth?)
• ¿Este plato tiene queso? (Does this dish have cheese?)
• ¿Es vegano/a? (Is it vegan?)

It’s also helpful to know the word "sin", which means "without". For example, "sin carne" means “without meat”, so you can ask for dishes to be adapted accordingly.

Common Ingredients to Watch Out For

While Spain offers a wide variety of vegetarian dishes, there are some ingredients that might sneak into dishes without you noticing:

• Jamón (ham): A staple in Spanish cuisine, often included in salads, soups, and sandwiches.
• Chorizo (sausage): A flavorful, spiced sausage that’s sometimes added to dishes for extra flavor.
• Caldo de carne (meat broth): Many soups and stews may contain meat-based broth, so it’s important to ask if the dish can be made with vegetable broth.
• Queso (cheese): Many Spanish dishes include cheese, whether it’s a topping, filling, or ingredient. Make sure to clarify whether cheese is part of your dish.
• Mayonesa (mayonnaise): Often contains egg, so be mindful if you're vegan.

If you are worried about ordering in a restaurant, going with a private guide will take the stress off of you.

Best Cities for Vegetarian Food

Spain’s culinary scene is diverse, and the country’s top cities are increasingly catering to vegetarian and vegan diets. Below are some of the best places to explore vegetarian food in Spain.

Barcelona

As a cosmopolitan city, Barcelona is known for its diverse dining scene, making it one of the best cities in Spain for vegetarian food. Here, you’ll find everything from Mediterranean-inspired vegetarian tapas to fully vegan tasting menus. Barcelona’s vibrant food market culture also offers plenty of vegetarian options

[Recommended Vegetarian Restuarant in Barcelona]

Veggie Garden : Known for its affordable, hearty, and flavorful vegan menu. Veggie Garden offers plant-based versions of classic Spanish dishes like paella and tortilla española.

Madrid

Madrid has seen a rise in vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants. The city offers an array of international and traditional Spanish vegetarian options. You'll find many tapas bars serving plant-based versions of classic dishes like tortilla española and pisto, along with modern eateries focusing on plant-based meals.

[Travel Guide]

If you are going to Madrid, there are a lot of private tour guide that can help your stress away!

Valencia

Valencia is not only famous for paella, but it’s also home to many delicious vegetarian dishes. The region offers a variety of plant-based meals, including arroz a banda (rice cooked in vegetable broth), and tapas such as patatas bravas. Valencia is also known for its emphasis on fresh, local produce.

Seville

Seville offers a mix of traditional Andalusian flavors with plenty of vegetarian options. Local specialties like gazpacho (cold tomato soup) and salmorejo (thick tomato soup) are naturally vegetarian and make Seville a great destination for plant-based eaters.

Granada

Known for its history and the Sierra Nevada backdrop, Granada is another Spanish city where vegetarians can thrive. The city offers a range of vegetarian-friendly dishes, including its famous tapas culture, where many bars offer free vegetarian tapas when you order a drink.

Vegetarian-Friendly Grocery Shopping

For vegetarians traveling to Spain, knowing where to shop for fresh produce and specialty items is essential. Here’s a guide to vegetarian-friendly grocery shopping in Spain.

Supermarkets & Specialty Stores

• Mercadona: One of the largest supermarket chains in Spain, Mercadona carries a wide selection of vegetarian and vegan products, from plant-based milk and tofu to meat substitutes and frozen vegetables.
• Carrefour: Known for offering organic and plant-based items, Carrefour is another great option for vegetarians. Many locations also carry international ingredients, so you can find products you might be missing from home.
• Veritas: A health food store that specializes in organic, vegetarian, and vegan products. Veritas is ideal for anyone looking for high-quality plant-based groceries.

Best Local Ingredients to Buy

• Olive Oil: Spain is the world's largest producer of olive oil. It’s a staple ingredient used in almost every Spanish dish, and it’s perfect for cooking or dressing salads.
• Garlic: Spanish cuisine uses a lot of garlic, and it’s an essential ingredient for adding depth and flavor to vegetarian dishes.
• Fresh Vegetables: Spain’s climate produces an abundance of fresh vegetables, including tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and zucchini. These are essential for vegetarian meals, especially in dishes like pisto and paella de verduras.
• Chickpeas (Garbanzos): Chickpeas are commonly used in Spanish cooking, particularly in dishes like garbanzos con espinacas and cocido (a vegetable and chickpea stew).

Tips for Traveling as a Vegetarian in Spain

Traveling as a vegetarian in Spain can be an exciting and delicious experience. However, there are some tips to help you navigate the local food scene.

What to Do When There’s No Vegetarian Option

If you find yourself in a restaurant without any clear vegetarian options, don’t hesitate to ask. Spanish chefs are often flexible and willing to accommodate dietary preferences. For example, you can request a vegetarian version of a traditional dish like paella or tortilla española without meat.

How to Adapt Traditional Dishes to Be Vegetarian

Many Spanish dishes can easily be made vegetarian by asking for a few modifications. For example:

• Tortilla española: Ask for the tortilla without chorizo or ham to make it vegetarian.
• Paella de mariscos (seafood paella): Ask for a vegetable or mushroom paella instead.
• Gazpacho: This cold tomato soup is naturally vegetarian, but you can request it without bread if you prefer a smoother texture.

Conclusion

Spain offers a rich and diverse range of vegetarian foods, with many traditional dishes easily adapted to suit plant-based diets. Whether you’re dining in a vibrant city like Barcelona or wandering through a quieter town in Andalusia, you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy. By learning a few key phrases and understanding which ingredients to watch for, you can confidently navigate Spain’s culinary landscape and enjoy its delicious vegetarian offerings.

From hearty paellas de verduras to fresh ensaladas de naranja y aceitunas, Spain has something for every vegetarian to enjoy. Don’t forget to check out local grocery stores to pick up fresh ingredients and bring a taste of Spain back home with you!

And if you want to enjoy Spain to the fullest, completely stress-free in vegetarian cuisine, your private guide will take you to the best places according to your preferences.