Israel Romero / Sunday, January 25, 2026 / Categories: Blog Mediterranean Winter: Legumes and Robust Extra-Virgin Olive Oil to Warm You Up Mediterranean winter: legumes and robust EVOO to warm you up When we think of the Mediterranean we usually imagine sun and light. But those of us who know it well know that winter exists here too. A serene winter, of cold days and kitchens lit up, that invites us back to spoon dishes, to deep flavors and to ingredients that comfort body and soul. In inland areas such as Andalusia, Madrid, Extremadura, the Two Castiles (La Mancha and León) and the Cantabrian coast, winter is clearly felt: cold mornings, fields at rest and a culinary tradition based on humble, nutritious and meaningful products. It is here that legumes and intense extra virgin olive oil become great allies. Legumes, like the ones you’ll find at La Despensa d’Lujo, are an essential base of the Mediterranean winter diet. Rich in plant protein, complex carbohydrates and fiber, they provide sustained energy and help maintain body warmth. Lentils, chickpeas or beans not only nourish: they comfort, satisfy and care. And if there is one ingredient that elevates these dishes, it is characterful EVOO. In winter we recommend varieties with personality, such as Picual, intense, green and slightly peppery, or Cornicabra, more complex and lingering. Oils ideal for long stews, deep sofritos and dishes that demand presence. In our selection stand out Oleum Alcazaba, with its powerful, structured Picual, perfect for legumes and winter vegetables, and Oro la Senda, with an elegant, balanced Cornicabra, ideal for adding depth without masking the dish’s flavor. A Made in Spain Gourmet idea? A chickpea stew with seasonal vegetables, finished with a drizzle of Picual raw. Or braised lentils, with Cornicabra at the start of the sofrito and a final touch just before serving. Because the Mediterranean winter is also enjoyed slowly, with pantry products, good oil and recipes that embrace. Discover our selection at Made in Spain Store and turn the cold into pure gourmet pleasure. Mediterranean Winter Made in Spain Gourmet Quality, origin and a passion for the authentic. Best Sellers Abadía San Quirce Reserva, Red wine 100% Acorn-fed Chorizo, Juan Pedro Domecq Cocido Broth, Just Married BUY NOW Do you like our content? We strive to offer information we think is interesting if you are a true Spanish Gourmet Lover, so we want to reward your loyalty with a €10 discount on your next purchase at Made in Spain Store by using the coupon LOVER you will benefit from this exclusive discount. *Purchases over €60 AUTHOR: Israel Romero, CEO of Made in Spain Gourmet. What are polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil, and why do they make a difference? Spain has a problem: we aren’t a Community… and will we ever become one? Print 3 Rate this article: No rating Please login or register to post comments.