Ice-cold and light - the taste of summer on the Costa Blanca

There are many sides to summer on the Costa Blanca. One is hot, loud and full of joie de vivre. The other tastes of tomatoes, fresh herbs and a glass of Tinto de Verano in the afternoon heat. If you want to spend the warm months not only on the beach, but also on your plate, you should take some time to savour the classics of the region.

Because eating here is never just about eating - it's a ritual that structures the day, brings people together and sometimes simply helps to endure the temperatures with a smile.

Gazpacho, salmorejo and co. Cold bowls that make you happy
Few dishes epitomise Spanish summers like gazpacho: a cold soup made from tomatoes, cucumber, peppers, garlic and olive oil. Simple, honest, served ice cold - and just right when you need to cool down after a stroll around the market.
The salmorejo is somewhat creamier, often with an egg and Serrano ham topping. Both varieties are available in many restaurants, especially in small bars around the market halls of Dénia, Jávea or Altea.
If you like, you can also take a bottle of gazpacho with you - any well-stocked supermarket will have it chilled.

Tinto de Verano - Simple, red and just right
While tourists like to order sangria, many locals prefer to drink the uncomplicated Tinto de Verano: red wine, ice cubes, lemonade - that's it. A drink that no terrace is complete without in the late afternoon.
Alternatively, a glass of orxata, the nutty-sweet drink made from tigernuts, which has cult status in the Valencia region, is worthwhile. It tastes particularly fresh in the classic orxaterías in Altea or at the stalls at the summer festivals.