Tortilla Española, also known as Spanish omelette, is a classic dish from Spain that combines simple ingredients to create a delicious and hearty meal. This versatile dish can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it perfect for any time of the day. Whether served as a main course or as a tapa, it is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying texture.
While most of the ingredients for Tortilla Española are commonly found in any kitchen, you might need to pay special attention to olive oil. It's essential to use a good quality olive oil to achieve the authentic taste and texture of this dish. When shopping, look for extra virgin olive oil for the best results.

Ingredients For Tortilla Española Recipe
Potatoes: Peeled and thinly sliced, these form the base of the tortilla, providing a hearty and comforting texture.
Onion: Finely chopped, it adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
Eggs: Beaten and seasoned, they bind the ingredients together and create a rich, fluffy texture.
Olive oil: Used for cooking the potatoes and onions, it imparts a distinct and authentic flavor to the tortilla.
Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Pepper: Adds a hint of spice and balances the overall taste.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When cooking the potatoes and onions, make sure to keep the heat at medium to avoid browning them too quickly. You want them to become soft and tender, not crispy. This will ensure that the tortilla has a smooth and cohesive texture.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
potatoes - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer a slightly sweeter flavor and a different texture, adding a unique twist to the dish.
potatoes - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini provides a lighter, lower-carb alternative with a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder, sweeter taste compared to onions, adding a subtle flavor to the dish.
onion - Substitute with leeks: Leeks offer a more delicate and slightly sweet flavor, which can add a different dimension to the tortilla.
eggs - Substitute with egg whites: Using egg whites reduces the cholesterol and fat content while maintaining the protein and structure of the dish.
eggs - Substitute with chickpea flour mixture: A mixture of chickpea flour and water can act as a vegan alternative, providing a similar texture and binding quality.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for frying and cooking.
olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used for its high smoke point and slightly sweet flavor, adding a different taste profile to the dish.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
How to Store or Freeze This Dish
- Allow the tortilla espanola to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps to prevent condensation, which can make the tortilla soggy.
- Once cooled, wrap the tortilla tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help to maintain its moisture and prevent it from drying out.
- Place the wrapped tortilla in an airtight container to provide an extra layer of protection against air and moisture.
- Store the container in the refrigerator. The tortilla will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, consider freezing the tortilla. Cut it into individual portions for easier reheating.
- Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container, and label it with the date.
- When ready to eat, thaw the tortilla in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat in a frying pan over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overheating to maintain the texture and flavor.
- Enjoy your tortilla espanola as a quick and delicious meal or snack!
How to Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tortilla espanola on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the potatoes and onions' texture.
Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan. Place the tortilla espanola in the skillet and cover it with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method keeps the eggs fluffy and the potatoes tender.
Microwave Method: Place a slice of tortilla espanola on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the eggs rubbery.
Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tortilla espanola on a piece of aluminum foil or a small baking tray. Heat for about 8-10 minutes or until warmed through. This method is quick and helps maintain the tortilla's crispy edges.
Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place the tortilla espanola in the air fryer basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn't overcook. This method gives a slightly crispy texture to the tortilla while keeping the inside moist.
Best Tools for Making This Recipe
Frying pan: Used to heat the olive oil and cook the potatoes, onions, and the egg mixture.
Spatula: Essential for stirring the potatoes and onions while they cook and for helping to flip the tortilla.
Mixing bowl: Used to beat the eggs and mix them with the cooked potatoes and onions.
Whisk: Handy for beating the eggs to ensure they are well mixed and fluffy.
Knife: Necessary for peeling and thinly slicing the potatoes and finely chopping the onion.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing the potatoes and chopping the onion.
Plate: Used to help flip the tortilla in the frying pan to cook the other side.
Measuring cup: Used to measure the ½ cup of olive oil accurately.
Peeler: Useful for peeling the potatoes efficiently.
How to Save Time on Making This Dish
Pre-cook the potatoes: Microwave the potatoes for a few minutes before slicing to reduce frying time.
Use a food processor: Quickly slice potatoes and onions using a food processor to save chopping time.
Cook in batches: If your pan is small, cook potatoes and onions in batches to ensure even cooking.
Non-stick pan: Use a non-stick pan to make flipping the tortilla easier and reduce sticking.
Pre-beat the eggs: Beat the eggs while the potatoes and onions are cooking to streamline the process.

Tortilla Espanola Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 units potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 unit onion finely chopped
- 6 units eggs
- ½ cup olive oil
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
Instructions
- 1. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- 2. Add potatoes and onions, cook until soft.
- 3. In a bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
- 4. Add the cooked potatoes and onions to the eggs, mix well.
- 5. Pour the mixture back into the frying pan and cook on low heat until the eggs are set.
- 6. Flip the tortilla using a plate and cook the other side until golden brown.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts for This Recipe
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