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The list of dishes is endless: fish such as tuna, sea bass, monkfish and ray. Mollusks, unmistakable for their delicate flavour, such as clams or mussels. Unrivalled and universal seafood such as Huelva prawns (white and fresh), lobster and crayfish. We must not forget the traditional preserves of Isla Cristina, with delicious examples of mackerel and tuna in pure olive oil.
Epic fish supply center
Isla Cristina is a town on the west coast of the Spanish province of Huelva. It is located in the region of Andalusia and on the Costa de la Luz. Isla Cristina is a relatively young town. It was founded in the second half of the 18th century by fishermen from Catalonia. The town grew rapidly thanks to fishing, salt mining and the brine industry. Today Isla Cristina is an important fishing town. Its port is the most important in Andalusia and, together with Vigo in the north, one of the most important in Spain. The port is an important source of employment for the town.
From market
The Islantilla region is rich in traditions and culinary delights, and boasts lively local markets. If you are travelling south of Huelva, we definitely recommend a visit to the markets. These markets offer an insight into Andalusian food habits and the chance to try delicious local produce and take it home with you.
They also allow you to experience the culture, history of Andalusia and the daily routine of the local people. A visit to Islantilla is not complete without a visit to a local market. These markets are the centre of the social life of the region, a place where locals and visitors gather to buy fresh seasonal produce and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Keep in mind that the best time to visit these markets is usually in the morning, when the produce is fresh and the markets are less crowded. In addition, many of these markets offer all those fresh products but also have food stalls and small cafes where you can sample the local cuisine. Allow yourself, like the locals, to enjoy a tapa and a glass of sherry while exploring the market, or a cold beer on a nearby terrace.
And finally, in addition to your shopping, don't forget to take home a bit of Andalusian culture and hospitality in the form of a souvenir, or simply the memory of a nice experience. After all, the markets in the Islantilla region are not just a place to shop, but also to experience the local culture, meet new people and maybe even learn a new recipe.
At the markets in Isla Cristina and Lepe everyone shouts “fresh fish” and rightly so! Here you will find the delicacies of the Atlantic Ocean fresh from the sea. The atmosphere of these markets is determined by the constant flow of people, where conversations and good humour mix with the quality of the products. If you go to the market, be sure to take your time to enjoy the lively atmosphere and the smell of fish and seafood. Try the white prawns from Huelva, a real delicacy, which you can roast with garlic and parsley for a real treat. After shopping at the market you should definitely take a walk along the beautiful coast of Islantilla: the view of the Atlantic Ocean is truly spectacular.
Spanish strawberry cultivation in Huelva
Up to 97% of the strawberries grown in Spain are harvested in plots in the province of Huelva, according to data from the Institute of Statistics and Cartography of Andalusia. The harvest averages around 350,000 tons. Islantilla is a pioneer in strawberry cultivation in Spain and has historically led this crop, also overcoming some poor harvests. If you drive through the area in spring, the entire region smells of these sun-ripened fruits. The strawberries are as red inside as they are outside and have a wonderfully sweet taste. The harvest season runs from early March to early June. You can buy a box for a very good price at the local market.
Native plant of the marshes
Salicornia is a halophyte plant classified as a gastronomic product for its culinary qualities such as its crunchy texture, sea flavour and its nutritional value as a salt substitute for people with high blood pressure, in addition to its high protein content. It also contains unsaturated fatty acids such as omega 3 and 6 and vitamins C and B1, with a high content of minerals such as iodine, sodium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, iron and zinc, essential for the proper functioning of the body. Salicornia is a salt-tolerant plant that thrives in this coastal region. It is very nutritious and is often eaten with scrambled eggs, as a vegetable and as a garnish for fish dishes. The main use of sea fennel remains in cooking, but research is currently being carried out to use it for other purposes.
You see, in Islantilla you can enjoy fresh and super healthy products from the sea, the land and the marshes. So if you are planning a trip to Islantilla, do not forget to include in your itinerary a visit to the local markets. You will not regret it! Finally, the County of Huelva has its own legend with a wine culture that supplies excellent wines to the best tables in the province.
Below we give you tips for eating in Islantilla:
