Seasonal ingredients on the Costa Blanca

Winter on the Costa Blanca offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh, seasonal ingredients. These products bring the local cuisine to life. As you may already know, using local ingredients makes a big difference in taste. In this article, you will discover three delicious ingredients that are currently in season: artichokes, almonds and fresh fish. Let’s explore the markets of the Costa Blanca together and discover these flavoursome ingredients.

1. Artichokes: local and fresh

First of all, artichokes are at their best in the winter on the Costa Blanca. This versatile vegetable has a mild, nutty flavour, making it a favourite ingredient in local cuisine. From paellas to stews, artichokes play a key role in many dishes. What’s more, they are grown in abundance in the Alicante region, meaning you can find them in various markets that offer plenty of fresh produce throughout the winter. Where to get:

• Mercado Central Alicante: Here you can buy artichokes from local growers. They are perfect for making a tasty meal. Mercado Central Alicante
• Mercado de Denia: In Denia, an important market on the coast, you can also find fresh artichokes of high quality. Mercado de Denia

Tip: Try alcachofas a la brasa (grilled artichokes). This simple dish really lets the pure flavour of the artichoke shine.

2. Almonds: the taste of the Costa Blanca

In addition, the Costa Blanca is known for its almond cultivation. In the province of Alicante, almond trees grow that bear fruit in the winter. Almonds are used in many Spanish dishes, such as turrón (sweet Christmas dish) and almendra amarga (bitter almond paste). They are also delicious as a snack or added to savoury dishes. So, if you are here, it is definitely worth trying these local delicacies. Where to get:

• Mercado Central Alicante: At these markets you can buy both peeled and unpeeled almonds. They are ideal for all kinds of dishes. Mercado Central Alicante
• Mercado de la Montaña, Jijona: Jijona, the home of turrón, offers the best almonds for making this famous treat. Mercado de la Montaña Jijona

Tip: Buy fresh almonds and make a traditional almendra soup (almond soup) or prepare your own turrón.

3. Fresh fish: the taste of the sea

Finally, fresh fish is a must during your stay on the Costa Blanca. The region has a wide variety of fish, from sea bream and sea bass to octopus and squid. Furthermore, winter is a great time to taste the freshness of the sea. So, whether you opt for a caldereta de pescado (fish stew) or an arroz a banda (fish paella), you will certainly enjoy the authentic flavours of the region. Where to get it:

• Mercado de Santa Pola: Santa Pola, a charming fishing village, offers the best fish directly from the market. You can buy all kinds of seafood here, from octopus to different types of fish. Mercado de Santa Pola
• Mercado Central Alicante: Also at the market in Alicante you can find a rich choice of fresh fish and seafood, straight from the Mediterranean. Mercado Central Alicante

Tip: Visit the market and buy fresh fish to make an authentic arroz a banda . If you prefer to eat out, try La Taberna del Gourmet in Alicante, known for its seafood.

Be inspired by the flavours of the Costa Blanca

In summary, winter offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the most flavoursome seasonal ingredients on the Costa Blanca. Whether you try artichokes, almonds or fresh fish, the region is the perfect place to discover local produce. That’s why we recommend you visit one of the markets or local restaurants and let yourself be surprised by the delicious flavours of this sunny part of Spain. ¡Buen provecho!