With the winter holidays approaching, many families in Spain are starting to think about the festive table. For some, cooking is part of the tradition; for others, it’s an unnecessary hassle. This year, the supermarket chain Mercadona has once again decided to make life easier for those who don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen but still wish to delight their loved ones with exquisite dishes.
The ‘Listo para comer’ section now offers a variety of ready-made dishes to suit different tastes and gatherings. Among the new items are canapé assortments, cured meats, fish, and even classic Spanish appetizers. All dishes can be pre-ordered and picked up in-store at your convenience.
Festive Appetizers
To kick off the celebration, Mercadona offers a canapé set for four, featuring tartlets with shrimp in garlic sauce, as well as options with goat cheese and caramelized onion. This set costs 15 euros. For larger groups, there’s a seafood salad starter for six people, also priced at 15 euros. However, note that this salad isn’t available in all regions—for example, it can’t be found in Galicia.
Those who prefer individual portions can choose stuffed chicken thighs with truffle sauce (15 euros per serving), braised beef cheeks (20 euros), or a lamb shoulder dish (27 euros per portion). For two, there is a quarter roast suckling pig for 50 euros. In some Galicia stores, you can find the traditional dish—cod with green shoots and potatoes, intended for two people and priced at 33 euros.
Regional Offerings
In certain regions, the menu selection has been expanded. For example, in the provinces of Valencia, Castellón, Teruel, Cuenca, the Balearic Islands, and Alicante, you can buy a set of mini Spanish tortillas for four people for €15. In Andalusia, specifically in Almería, Granada, and Jaén, fried pork loin with Pedro Ximénez sauce is available — this dish for four is priced at €30.
Each of these dishes can be pre-ordered, so you don’t have to worry about your holiday menu at the last minute. Orders for Christmas are accepted until December 20, and for New Year’s until December 27. On certain dates just before the holidays, there will be a special counter in stores staffed with assistants who can help you choose and place your order.
Convenience and ordering deadlines
Mercadona has made sure that the buying process is as simple as possible. Christmas Eve dinner can be pre-ordered until December 20, while orders for New Year’s Eve can be placed until December 27. On December 23 and 24, as well as December 30 and 31, assistants will be available at a special counter in stores to provide consultation and help you place your order on the spot.
This approach helps avoid the last-minute rush and ensures your holiday table is set without unnecessary hassle. Please note, the menu may vary by region, so it’s a good idea to check the availability of specific dishes at your nearest store.
