National Dish Andorra: Escalivada (Recipe)
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Say hello to Escalivada, the smoky vegetable dish that captures the sunny soul of Catalan cooking high in the Pyrenees. Aubergines, peppers and onions are charred over an open flame until meltingly tender, then peeled, torn into silky strips and dressed simply with fruity olive oil. It is rustic, colourful and endlessly forgiving — equally at home as a side, a light main or part of a spread of tapas. Bring a taste of Andorra to your own table with this easy summer classic.
About Escalivada
Escalivada is a traditional dish from Andorra that celebrates the flavours of Catalan cooking. It is built mainly from grilled vegetables such as aubergines, peppers and onions. This colourful dish is typically finished with good-quality olive oil and a scattering of seasonings, which give it its characteristic note. Escalivada is popular both as a side and as a main course, and it adapts beautifully to personal taste.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 2 aubergines
- 2 red peppers
- 1 large onion
- 4 tablespoons good-quality olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for Escalivada, it pays to look for fresh, good-quality produce. Visit a local market or a trusted supermarket to choose your vegetables. Make sure the aubergines are firm and glossy, while the peppers should have a crisp, taut texture. Good-quality olive oil matters just as much, as it shapes the flavour of the whole dish — so it is worth reaching for a cold-pressed, extra-virgin variety.
Preparing the dish
Before you start cooking Escalivada, wash and prepare the vegetables. Cut the aubergines and peppers in half, and slice the onion into thick rounds. This helps the vegetables cook evenly and lets their aromas come through at their best. Let the prepared vegetables rest for a few minutes so their flavours can settle before they hit the heat.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat the grill or the oven to a high temperature.
- Brush the prepared vegetables with good-quality olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill or roast the vegetables until soft and lightly charred (about 20–30 minutes).
- Once grilled, let the vegetables cool, then peel and cut into strips and arrange on a plate.
- Garnish with fresh herbs just before serving.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
One more thing to love about Escalivada is that it is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free. You can enjoy the dish without worry if you have coeliac disease or a lactose intolerance. Just make sure that any oils and seasonings you use are also gluten-free, to avoid cross-contamination. That makes Escalivada an excellent choice for anyone looking to eat a little more healthily.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For vegans and vegetarians, Escalivada is a perfect dish, as it contains no animal products at all. You can add extra protein by grilling some tofu or serving chickpeas on the side. Play with different seasonings, too, to tailor the dish to your taste. Escalivada pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad to make a nourishing, well-rounded meal — much like the crisp Amanida De Xicoies.
More tips and tricks
To get the very best flavour from your Escalivada, cooking over an open flame outdoors is ideal, as the smoky aroma suits the vegetables especially well. Take care not to overcook them, though, as this can spoil both the texture and the flavour. If you are roasting in the oven, use a baking mat or tray to ensure even browning. Experiment with different herbs to discover new flavour combinations.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Escalivada is a very flexible recipe that is easy to tailor to personal preference. You can add other vegetables, such as courgette, mushrooms or tomatoes, depending on what you have to hand. For a spicier result, add diced chilli or extra onion. Try different oils or a splash of vinegar, too, to vary the aroma and make the dish more interesting.
Ingredient substitutions
If you are not keen on aubergines, you could use pumpkin or sweet potato instead, both of which taste lovely here. When it comes to the peppers, choose colourful varieties to make the dish more eye-catching. In place of salt, you might reach for soy sauce or tamari to add a different savoury note. Experiment with the options to create your own version of Escalivada, in the same spirit as the smoky Calcots Amb Romesco.
Drink pairing ideas
For a harmonious meal, a fresh white wine or a rosé complements the flavours of Escalivada beautifully. A sparkling fruit juice or an unsweetened tea also makes a refreshing choice. If you like mixing cocktails, try a sangria to bring out that Mediterranean flair. Just be sure to serve the drinks chilled to round off the whole experience.
Serving and presentation ideas
To present Escalivada with style, arrange the vegetable strips neatly on a large platter. Garnish the dish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil to enhance both the look and the flavour. Serve it in small dishes to create a sociable atmosphere, or combine it with other tapas such as Pa Amb Tomaquet for a varied spread. Let your creativity run free!
A bit of history
The dish Escalivada has its roots in Catalan cooking and reflects the region’s traditional techniques — the name itself comes from the Catalan escalivar, meaning to cook in embers. It is often seen as a symbol of the Mediterranean way of life and healthy eating. Historically, Escalivada was made in the rural areas of Catalonia during the summer months, when fresh vegetables were plentiful. That tradition endures to this day and remains hugely popular both in Andorra and in the neighbouring regions, right alongside classics of Andorran cuisine like the hearty Trinxat.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Escalivada
To sum up, Escalivada is a delicious and versatile dish that shows off the flavours of Mediterranean cooking to perfection. It is simple to prepare and easy to adapt to your own preferences. Whether as a main course or a side, Escalivada is an excellent choice for a healthy, flavourful meal. Let its history and its aromas inspire you, and bring a little piece of Andorra into your own kitchen!
