Must Try Foods in Europe for the Summer

When the days get longer and the temperatures start to rise, there’s no better time to explore all the delicious foods Europe has to offer. From indulgent pastries to classic comfort food, there are plenty of dishes to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking to sample classic dishes or hunt down some unique delicacies, here are the top must-try foods in Europe for the summer.

Strawberries

Nothing says summer like succulent, ripe strawberries. In Europe, you’ll find some of the sweetest, most fragrant fruits. Depending on where you’re visiting, you may be able to pick your own strawberries from a local farm, or buy them from any outdoor market. Enjoy the strawberries on their own, or add them to a classic dessert like a tart or a crumble.

Gazpacho

Gazpacho is a traditional Spanish soup, usually served cold. It consists of a blend of tomatoes, bell peppers, garlic, onion, cucumber, olive oil, and vinegar. This cool soup is perfect for those hot summer days, as it is light and refreshing. Enjoy it as a starter or a light lunch. You can also find variations of this soup in other parts of Europe, such as Spain’s neighbor Portugal, where it is known as gaspacho.

Paella

Paella is a traditional Spanish dish consisting of rice, vegetables, and seafood. This dish is perfect for a summer feast. It can be made with any combination of ingredients, so you’ll never get bored trying out different recipes. Paella is usually cooked in a large pan over an open flame, giving it a distinctive smoky flavor. Enjoy it with a refreshing glass of sangria for the ultimate summer meal.

Crepes

Crepes are thin pancakes, usually served with a savory or sweet filling. They are popular throughout Europe, but are especially associated with France. There are countless varieties of crepes, so you’ll never get bored trying them all. Enjoy savory crepes filled with cheese, vegetables, and herbs, or sweet crepes filled with chocolate, Nutella, or jam. You can also find crepes filled with ice cream and topped with fresh fruit.

Ice Cream

Ice cream is a classic summer treat, and Europe is home to some of the best ice cream in the world. Italy is famous for its gelato, which is a creamier, denser version of regular ice cream. You can also find artisanal ice cream in many countries, with unique flavors like lavender, rose, and saffron. Enjoy your ice cream in a cone, or get creative and have it served in a waffle cone or a brioche bun.

Souvlaki

Souvlaki is a classic Greek dish consisting of grilled meat, vegetables, and spices. It is usually served in a pita wrap, but you can also find it on a skewer. This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue, as it is light and easy to make. Enjoy it with some tzatziki sauce for added flavor. You can also find souvlaki in other parts of Europe, such as Turkey, where it is known as shish kebab.

Pierogi

Pierogi are a type of dumpling, usually filled with potatoes, cheese, or meat. They are a popular dish in Poland, where they are usually served with sour cream and fried onions. Pierogi can also be served sweet, with a filling of fruit and cheese. Enjoy pierogi as a light meal or snack, or as a side dish. Try them with a variety of sauces, such as mushroom or garlic.

Currywurst

Currywurst is a classic German street food consisting of grilled pork sausage, topped with a spicy curry sauce. This dish is popular all over Germany, and is usually served with a side of fries. It’s a great snack for summer days, as it is light and full of flavor. Enjoy it on its own, or have it with a refreshing German beer.

Churros

Churros are a type of fried dough pastry, usually served with a chocolate dipping sauce. They are a popular snack in Spain, but you can also find them in other parts of Europe, such as Portugal and France. Enjoy churros as a sweet treat, or have them for breakfast with a cup of coffee. You can also find churros filled with cream, jam, or Nutella.

Moroccan Couscous

Moroccan couscous is a type of steamed grain, usually served with a variety of vegetables and spices. This dish is popular in Morocco, but you can also find it in other parts of Europe, such as Spain and France. Enjoy it as a light meal or a side dish. Try it with a variety of sauces, such as tahini or harissa. Serve it with a refreshing mint tea for an authentic Moroccan experience.

Fish and Chips

Fish and chips is a classic British dish consisting of battered fish and deep-fried chips. This dish is popular all over Europe, and is usually served with a side of tartar sauce. It’s the perfect meal for a summer day, as it is light and full of flavor. Enjoy it on its own, or have it with a pint of beer for a truly British experience.

Croissants

Croissants are a type of pastry, usually filled with butter or chocolate. They are a popular breakfast treat in France, but you can also find them in other parts of Europe. Enjoy them on their own, or fill them with jam, cheese, or Nutella for an added sweetness. For an authentic French experience, have them with a café au lait and some fresh fruit.

Conclusion

Europe is home to some of the most delicious and unique foods in the world. From succulent strawberries to savory currywurst, there is something for everyone. Enjoy these dishes as a light snack or a full meal. Whatever you choose, there’s no better way to experience Europe than through its food.