What is traditional Spanish Xatonada?

The “Xatonada” is a ritual meal eaten in Spain during Lent, when historically meat would not pass the lips!  According to legend the name of this typical Catalan dish comes from the word chateau, a reference to the size of the plate and the shape of this delicious winter salad. Originally cooked by the fishermen and consisting of cod fish, salad and a sauce

made from red pepper, almonds and garlic, la Xatonada Catalan local speciality is enjoyed every February in the regions south of Barcelona.  A famous saying is that “the Xato is much better in Sitges”, but the xató route begins in Sitges before heading inland to Sant Pere de Ribes and Vilafranca del Penedès, swinging south-west to El Vendrell then returning to the coast at Vilanova i la Geltrú and there is a recipe for each town of the Xató route.

Enjoy local Catalan delicacies on our  Taste Your Way Through Spain Tours which include private visits to the oldest flour mill in Europe, a  wonderful goats cheese producer  and even a Jam & Marmalade Museum! Alternatively if you fancy discovering the Xato Route for yourself we offer personalized private tours of the area.