Mediterranean cuisine is one of the healthest diets in the world in which the Costa del Sol embraces. The diet consists of fish, shellfish and the many different types of octopus combined with salad and olive oil. By far the most popular meal on the Costa del Sol is Espetos ( skeward sardines). This dish can be found at every restaurant on the beach. They are grilled over olive wood fires and are delicious. When ordering food in a Spanish restaurant it is best to order a variety of dishes, These are placed in the center of the table for you to try the different dishes. One tip is not to order to much fried food, it"s easy to do ,may be just one or two then have a selection of salad and grilled food.
Espetos de sardinas ( Skeward sardines)
These grilled sardines are delicious and packed with omega 3 oil. Generally served as a starter but can be ordered as part of a main course. Every restaurant on the beach front will be serving these and you can watch them being cooked on boat shaped barbecue's outside. A portion costs between 3 and 6 euro's in a medium priced restaurant. If you want to try local food these babies are a must.
Pescado a la sal (Fish baked in salt)
is arguably the best way to eat fish such as Dorada and Sea bream. The fish is placed in a baking tray, a kilo of salt is poured over the fish then put in the oven. The salt forms a crust and keeps all the juices and flavour within the crust. When ready the waiter will peel of the crust off at your table and serve. No salt gets into the fish and the fish does not have a salty taste. So do not be put off just because it is baked in salt. This dish will cost upwards of 20 euro's in a medium priced restaurant.
Bacalao plancha (grilled Cod)
is another favorite on the Costa del Sol. Notice that the Spanish do not go mad on vegetables. The cod is seasoned and grilled with a small amount of olive oil. The fish portions tend to be short and fat making them very succulent. This dish will cost around 10 to 15 euro in a medium prices restaurant.
Melillones naturales (steamed mussels)
Cooked mussels are eaten all around the world, cooked in cream, Thai sauce, cider and wine to name a few. In Spain it is served natural, the mussels cooked in there own juices sometimes with a hint of garlic but thats it. Served with a wedge of lemon. If you like mussels then try them natural to get the full flavour of the mussel without the sauces.
Iberico & Serrano ham
is a typical starter on the Costa del Sol. The ham is very finely cut off the bone. Every Spanish restaurant will have a ham hanging in it. As to Iberico or Serrano it's up to you. Serrano can be a bit cheaper as the aging process is quicker at around 15 months Iberico is considered better with a darker colour and can be aged for up to 36 months before it's ready.