Portuguese cuisine blends bold flavors and simple ingredients, offering a variety of dishes from seafood to hearty stews. Whether it’s a comforting soup or a savory grilled dish, these meals are both satisfying and full of tradition.
In this article, we explore 17 must-try Portuguese dinner recipes, each showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Portugal.
1. Bacalhau à Brás: A Codfish Classic
Bacalhau (salted codfish) is a staple in Portuguese cooking, and Bacalhau à Brás is one of the most beloved variations. The dish is a mix of shredded cod, potatoes, onions, and eggs, often garnished with olives and parsley. Its rich, comforting nature makes it a perfect dish for any time of the year, but especially during the holidays.

Photo Credit: food.com
2. Caldo Verde: The Portuguese Green Soup

Photo Credit: sandravalvassori.com
This flavorful soup is made with kale (or collard greens), potatoes, chorizo sausage, and olive oil. It’s traditionally served during festive occasions, especially on New Year’s Eve, but its warming, earthy flavors make it a popular choice for dinner any time. Caldo Verde symbolizes Portugal’s connection to hearty, wholesome ingredients.
3. Arroz de Marisco: Portuguese Seafood Rice

Photo Credit: wetravelportugal.com
Arroz de Marisco is a delightful seafood rice dish that combines fresh shellfish and fish with fragrant rice. It is typically made with a variety of seafood, including shrimp, clams, mussels, and sometimes squid. It celebrates Portugal’s coastal bounty and is often enjoyed as a communal meal.
Portuguese cuisine blends bold flavors and simple ingredients, offering a variety of dishes from seafood to hearty stews. Whether it’s a comforting soup or a savory grilled dish, these meals are both satisfying and full of tradition.
In this article, we explore 17 must-try Portuguese dinner recipes, each showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Portugal.
1. Bacalhau à Brás: A Codfish Classic
Bacalhau (salted codfish) is a staple in Portuguese cooking, and Bacalhau à Brás is one of the most beloved variations. The dish is a mix of shredded cod, potatoes, onions, and eggs, often garnished with olives and parsley. Its rich, comforting nature makes it a perfect dish for any time of the year, but especially during the holidays.

Photo Credit: food.com
2. Caldo Verde: The Portuguese Green Soup

Photo Credit: sandravalvassori.com
This flavorful soup is made with kale (or collard greens), potatoes, chorizo sausage, and olive oil. It’s traditionally served during festive occasions, especially on New Year’s Eve, but its warming, earthy flavors make it a popular choice for dinner any time. Caldo Verde symbolizes Portugal’s connection to hearty, wholesome ingredients.
3. Arroz de Marisco: Portuguese Seafood Rice

Photo Credit: wetravelportugal.com
Arroz de Marisco is a delightful seafood rice dish that combines fresh shellfish and fish with fragrant rice. It is typically made with a variety of seafood, including shrimp, clams, mussels, and sometimes squid. It celebrates Portugal’s coastal bounty and is often enjoyed as a communal meal.