Eating well involves following a balanced diet. Within it, fish is one of the main foods that should be included. Therefore, it is good to know which fish are the most consumed in Spain so that you have a great variety of options to choose from.
With a great amount of nutrients, vitamins, and proteins, the benefits of fish are numerous, and many people choose this food over meat.
Also, we must add that in our country, it is easy to find fish practically everywhere. If you are fortunate enough to live in Barcelona and its surrounding area, you can also enjoy it at a very good price in our Chao Pescao fish restaurants in Barcelona.
In case you have any doubts about which fish to choose due to the wide variety available, in this guide we introduce the most consumed fish in our country. This way, it won’t take you long to include fish in your weekly menu.
Is a lot of fish eaten in Spain?
Before answering this question, it is important to consider that our country has 6000 km of coastline spread across various seas. This means that we have a wealth of fish, making Spanish fish varied and of the highest quality.
In line with this, you must also know that Spain is the second country in the world with the highest consumption of fish. In this regard, only Japan surpasses us. Likewise, Spain is the third-largest fishing country in the European Union and leads in fish production through aquaculture.
All this makes Spain one of the countries with the highest fish consumption internationally. Furthermore, the fish consumed in our country always boasts the highest quality.
The most consumed fish in Spain
At this point, if you want to include a greater quantity of this food in your diet, you will be interested to know which fish are the most consumed in our country. In this list, we offer some of the most popular options.
Hake and whiting
According to data from 2021, the two most consumed fish in our country are hake and whiting. These two white fish are famous for their abundance of nutrients and their reasonable price, making them some of the most affordable fish for the majority of Spanish households.
Furthermore, both types of fish have a decent content of high biological value proteins. They are also sources of minerals such as iron, potassium, phosphorus, or selenium, among others.
Salmon
Salmon cannot be left behind either and is the second most consumed fish in Spain. Suitable for consumption in a variety of ways, it stands out for its incredible flavor.
In this regard, this oily fish also has a wide range of benefits. For example, its fat is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which help regulate cholesterol. It is also has a high nutritional value. It is rich in proteins and provides minerals such as iron, calcium, potassium, or iodine, among others.
Sardines and anchovies
In third place, we have sardines and anchovies, two of the most famous fish in our country. Also suitable for inclusion in a variety of recipes, their price, versatility, and flavor place them among the most popular choices.
In terms of their benefits, they contribute to the improvement of the nervous system and help the brain function properly. They are also rich in vitamins from groups A, B, and D, which strengthen the immune system.
Cod
Cod ranks fourth as one of the most consumed fish in our country. Once again, we are talking about a food rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce bad cholesterol.
On the other hand, cod contains a significant amount of vitamins because it feeds on plankton and it is also rich in minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. In other words, it is a fish that promotes brain and heart health and is beneficial for osteoporosis.
Sea Bream
Sea bream is another of the most consumed fish in Spain. It is perfect for preventing diseases related to the cardiovascular system and is rich in fatty acids that are highly beneficial for our health, such as Omega-3 and Omega-6.
Furthermore, sea bream is one of the best sources of potassium and sodium. It also provides magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and iron, among others. Additionally, it has a great flavor, and the recipes in which it can be included are varied and all of them healthy.
Popular Spanish fish names and their English equivalents
Spain boasts a rich culinary heritage, and its seafood offerings are no exception. Dive into the flavors of the Mediterranean as we introduce you to some of the most consumed fish and seafood in Spain.
Whether you’re strolling through bustling markets or savoring a meal in a seaside taverna, understanding the local names is key. Check out the table below for a handy guide to the Spanish fish names and their English equivalents of the 20 most important fish and seafood varieties enjoyed in Spain.
| Spanish | English |
|---|---|
| Merluza | Hake |
| Lubina | Sea Bass |
| Dorada | Gilthead Bream |
| Boquerones | Anchovies |
| Gambas | Shrimp |
| Calamares | Squid |
| Pulpo | Octopus |
| Sardinas | Sardines |
| Mejillones | Mussels |
| Bacalao | Cod |
| Vieiras | Scallops |
| Almejas | Clams |
| Rodaballo | Turbot |
| Cangrejo | Crab |
| Anguila | Eel |
| Trucha | Trout |
| Salmonete | Red Mullet |
| Rape | Monkfish |
| Salmón | Salmon |
| Atún | Tuna |
As you can see, the most consumed fish in Spain are numerous and diverse. All of them have great health benefits and are suitable for preparing an incredible variety of recipes for all occasions. Now that we have provided you with this list, we encourage you to enjoy them. But remember, if you want to savour exquisite fish dishes, visit one of our restaurants to enjoy an unparalleled culinary experience.
