Top 3 Catalan Vegetarian Dishes

Escalivada is one of the most famous dishes from the Catalonia region of Spain, but it is also one of the simplest. The main ingredients include eggplants, bell peppers, and sometimes onions and tomatoes, typically grilled whole over hot embers. The vegetables are then peeled, seeded, seasoned, and served as appetizers or side dishes, accompanying numerous roasted or grilled meat dishes and complementing each other. The name of the dish is derived from the word escalivar, meaning to roast over embers, to grill, or to roast in ashes. It is believed that the first escalivada was prepared by farmers from the Pyrenees mountains, who would prepare the meal while the cattle was out on the pastures. Although escalivada is nowadays served mostly as a side dish, it can also be served as tapas, a warm salad, or as an accompaniment to fish dishes.Expand

Samfaina is a Spanish dish that is closely related to the French ratatouille. Originating from Catalonia, samfaina is made with eggplants, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and olive oil. Of course, there are as many variations as there are cooks, so some prefer to add garlic or roast the peppers before making the dish. Samfaina is both a sauce and a side dish, and nowadays, it can even be served on its own as a vegetarian dish. When served as a sauce or a side dish, it usually accompanies meat, rice, or fish (especially cod). The name of the dish means symphony, possibly referring to the symphony of various vegetables and flavors.Expand

Espinacas a la catalana is a traditional dish originating from Catalonia. It's usually made with a combination of spinach, raisins, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, and pine nuts. The spinach is blanched, drained, and chopped. The garlic and pine nuts are sautéed in olive oil and the garlic is then removed. The raisins and spinach are added to the pan, seasoned with salt and pepper, and then fried for a few more minutes. The dish is served on small plates, and it's often accompanied by bread and ham on the side.Expand