Argentina is famous not only for tango, football, and its stunning landscapes like the Andes and Patagonia, but also for its rich and flavorful cuisine. Argentinian food is deeply tied to its traditions, blending influences from Europe, especially Italy and Spain, creating a variety that appeals to every palate. In this blog post, we’ll explore the most typical dishes of Argentina – from appetizers and main courses to desserts and snacks that locals love to enjoy in between meals.

Appetizers: Empanadas and More

Empanadas are one of the most iconic Argentinian appetizers. These savory pastries are filled with all sorts of ingredients, though the classic filling is a mix of ground beef, onions, hard-boiled egg, and olives. Empanadas come in many variations – both sweet and savory – and are either baked or fried, depending on regional traditions.

Another popular starter is provoleta, a grilled provolone cheese dish. This Argentinian favorite is often served with a sprinkle of oregano and a drizzle of olive oil, making it a perfect match for freshly baked bread, which is commonly served as a side with almost every meal.

Main Courses: Asado – The Art of Argentinian Barbecue

No conversation about Argentinian cuisine is complete without mentioning asado. More than just barbecuing, asado is a social tradition. It involves grilling a variety of meats – primarily beef—on an open flame grill called a parrilla. Some of the most popular cuts include bife de chorizo (sirloin steak), costillas (ribs), and chorizo (a spiced sausage).

The key to a perfect asado is patience: the meat is cooked slowly at a low temperature, ensuring it stays tender and flavorful. It’s typically served with chimichurri, a tangy herb sauce made from parsley, garlic, oregano, vinegar, and olive oil, alongside sides like papas (potatoes) or ensalada criolla (a simple tomato and onion salad).

Aside from grilled meat, pasta and pizza also hold a special place in Argentinian cuisine, particularly in cities like Buenos Aires, where Italian influence is strong. Ñoquis (gnocchi) and homemade ravioles are crowd favorites.

Snacks and Sweet Treats: Alfajores and Mate

You can’t talk about Argentinian snacks without mentioning alfajores – delicious sandwich cookies filled with dulce de leche (a rich caramel spread), often coated in chocolate. These sweet treats are found all over Argentina and come in a wide variety of styles, from simple homemade versions to elaborately crafted ones.

Then, there’s mate, an integral part of Argentinian culture. This traditional herbal tea, made from yerba leaves, has a slightly bitter taste and is usually sipped from a special gourd. It’s often enjoyed alongside sweet pastries like facturas, making it the perfect mid-morning or afternoon pick-me-up.

Desserts: Argentina’s Sweet Tooth

Argentinians have a serious love for sweets, which is especially evident in their desserts. Dulce de leche is a national obsession—used as a spread or as a key ingredient in many desserts. A classic example is flan, a creamy custard often topped with dulce de leche and whipped cream.

Ice cream, or helado, is another beloved treat in Argentina, and local ice cream shops are often open late into the night, especially during the summer months. Dulce de leche ice cream is a particular standout, with many different variations available.

Our conclusion: Argentinian cuisine is a feast for the senses. Whether you’re savoring a traditional asado, sipping on mate, or indulging in sweet alfajores and dulce de leche, there’s always something delicious to discover. Argentina’s diverse food scene is sure to satisfy every craving!

Additional reading suggestions for you: