Spanish Empanada Gallega
Empanada Gallega is a savory, oven-baked pie originating from Galicia in northwest Spain. It features a tender, bread-like dough encasing a generous filling, most traditionally made with tuna, onions, peppers, and tomato, though variations with sardines, cod, or meat are also popular. The entire pie is typically scored into squares before baking and served warm or at room temperature.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is a balanced source of energy, providing a good mix of carbohydrates from the dough, protein from the fish or meat filling, and healthy fats, especially if made with olive oil. A typical serving (one square) would likely contain around 250-350 calories, with key nutrients including B vitamins, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids if using fish.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbs | 42 g |
| Fat | 17 g |
| Fiber | 2.5 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 580 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Potassium | 320 mg |
| Selenium | 25 mcg |
| Folate | 80 mcg |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) | 0.3 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.2 mg |
| Phosphorus | 150 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 4 mg |
Per 1 slice (150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Empanada Gallega is a quintessential communal food, often prepared for festivals, family gatherings, and as a portable meal for farmers and fishermen. Its unique, cake-like dough (unlike the flaky pastry of other empanadas) makes it sturdy and perfect for sharing directly from the baking tray.
