Introduction
Food is an essential part of culture and daily life. Learning food-related vocabulary in Spanish will help you communicate your preferences, describe meals, and engage in conversations about cuisine.
Meal Vocabulary
| English | Spanish |
|---|
| Breakfast | Desayuno |
| Lunch | Almuerzo |
| Dinner | Cena |
| Snack | Merienda |
| Appetizer | Aperitivo |
| Dessert | Postre |
| Beverage | Bebida |
Common Foods
| English | Spanish |
|---|
| Bread | Pan |
| Cheese | Queso |
| Chicken | Pollo |
| Fish | Pescado |
| Fruit | Fruta |
| Meat | Carne |
| Rice | Arroz |
| Salad | Ensalada |
| Soup | Sopa |
| Steak | Bistec |
| Vegetables | Verduras |
Beverages
| English | Spanish |
|---|
| Water | Agua |
| Coffee | Café |
| Tea | Té |
| Juice | Jugo |
| Milk | Leche |
| Beer | Cerveza |
| Wine | Vino |
Food Preferences
| English | Spanish |
|---|
| I like... | Me gusta... |
| I don’t like... | No me gusta... |
| I’m hungry. | Tengo hambre. |
| I’m thirsty. | Tengo sed. |
| My favorite food is... | Mi comida favorita es... |
| I prefer... | Prefiero... |
| I’m vegetarian. | Soy vegetariano/vegetariana. |
| I’m vegan. | Soy vegano/vegana. |
Example Sentences
- Desayuno con pan y café.
- Mi almuerzo favorito es pollo con arroz.
- ¿Prefieres carne o pescado para la cena?
- Me gusta beber jugo por la mañana.
- No me gusta la sopa.
- Soy vegetariano y no como carne.
- ¿Tienes sed? Puedo ofrecerte agua o té.
- Mi postre favorito es el helado.
Cultural Note
In many Spanish-speaking countries, the main meal of the day is often almuerzo (lunch), which is typically larger and more substantial than dinner. Cena (dinner) is usually lighter and served later in the evening. Additionally, sharing meals with family and friends is an important social tradition, emphasizing the communal aspect of eating.
Conclusion
By mastering this food-related vocabulary, you'll be better equipped to discuss meals, express your culinary preferences, and explore the rich culinary traditions of Spanish-speaking cultures. Whether you're dining at a restaurant, shopping at a market, or sharing a meal with friends, these terms will enhance your communication and help you connect with others through the universal language of food.
