The Spanish Mediterranean Islands Cookbook

Explore the diverse cuisine of Spain’s Balearic Islands – Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera – through 155 authentic home cooking recipes.

Located off the Spanish Mediterranean coast, the Balearic Islands are renowned for their natural beauty, yet their cuisine has been largely underappreciated. This evocative recipe collection transports readers to the family kitchens, cafes, and markets of the archipelago, revealing a distinct culinary heritage shaped by the region’s geography.

The islands’ most beloved dishes celebrate local produce, familiar Mediterranean ingredients – olive oil and garlic, rice and fresh fish – and resourceful cooking methods passed down for generations. From Menorcan-Style Stuffed Eggplant, Baked Fish with Spinach and Swiss Chard, Black Rice with Cuttlefish and Artichokes, and Pork with Wild Mushrooms to Baked Figs, Almond Cookies, and Formentera’s most famous dessert, Fresh Cheesecake with Mint, the book’s recipes include both sweet and savory classics.

Alongside the bounty of delicious dishes, acclaimed author Jeff Koehler presents vivid short essays highlighting culinary traditions, such as weekly village markets and St Martin’s Day festivities; local ingredients, including cured sausages and tomato preserves; and essential techniques, such as preparing a perfect sofregit. Illustrated with gorgeous photography of the food and local landscapes, The Spanish Mediterranean Islands Cookbook captures the essence of one of the world’s most enchanting destinations.

Review

Corriere Della Serra’s Best Food-Themed Books of April 2025

‘If you’re passionate about Mediterranean cuisine, The Spanish Mediterranean Islands Cookbook is a must-have. This book is not only a culinary guide, but a sensorial journey through the essence of the Balearic Islands.’ – People en Español

‘From the very first words… we are captivated.’ – Le Vif

‘With 150 recipes, this book immerses readers into the cuisine and culture of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera.’ – Le Chef

‘If you’re looking to expand your repertoire of Mediterranean foods… [it] will scratch that culinary itch pretty deliciously.’ – The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

‘Looking for some sun? From the first page, this book invites you on a gourmet voyage to the Balearic Islands.’ – Flow

About the Author

Award-winning writer Jeff Koehler is the author of eight critically acclaimed books, most recently The North African Cookbook (Phaidon, 2023). His writing has appeared in many publications including the Washington Post, Saveur, Taste, Times Literary Supplement, Food & Wine, the South China Post magazine, and Vogue Arabia. He has long divided his time between his homes in Barcelona and Menorca.