“When in Rome, do as the Romans do”, “Sharing is caring”, “Every cloud has a silver lining”, “The early bird catches the worm”… No, you haven’t landed on the wrong page, and no, we haven’t gone (more) crazy. These are just some of the traditional sayings that are commonly used here in Mallorca and all across Spain, passed down from generation to generation over the years.
There are plenty more, but we won’t start compiling proverbs now to create a “Learn Spanish with MarSenses” guide — although that wouldn’t be a bad idea. It would be another fun experience. Actually, we might be onto a whole new niche we haven’t explored yet.
The point here, as the first saying suggests, is to get to know the customs and traditions of the place you’re visiting. For example, for all of you visiting Mallorca, it’s about getting familiar with local traditions to make your trip as immersive as possible. So, we’re going to let you in on a (not-so-secret) secret to help you enjoy summer on the island the same way locals (well, we locals) do.
And no, we’re not going to give you the names of secret coves that might end up overcrowded. What we are going to share is something very simple: food. But the meaning goes far beyond that — it’s about traditions that have been kept alive for generations.
To you, it might just seem like a piece of bread with some cold cuts on top — and yes, it is — but it’s so much more. It means love, company, memories, friendship, laughter, sharing secrets, family… A moment of disconnection, but also connection: with yourself, with local products, and with our traditions.
It’s something many families eat all year round — it’s easy to prepare, delicious, healthy, full of flavor, and quick (let’s be honest). Especially in summer, it’s super handy and traditional, as you can whip up lunch or dinner in just five minutes. It’s perfect when an impromptu group of friends gathers. (Well, actually, it works any time of year — now you see what we mean?)
What do you need? (It’s in the Mallorcan ID handbook, chapter 2) 😊
- Traditional Mallorcan brown bread
- Ramellet tomato — Mallorcan and perfect for this dish
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Your choice of cold cuts (though we highly recommend camaiot — a pork-based sausage with an intense flavor — or Mahon cheese from Menorca — a perfect pairing)
- Optional, but highly recommended: olives — they add a great touch and complement the dish beautifully
If you’re looking for something to accompany your Pa amb oli, here’s another quick, tasty, healthy, and flavor-packed recommendation: TRAMPÓ (or TREMPÓ). It’s basically a salad made of tomato, onion, and green pepper. Yes — no lettuce. While many people call it a salad, it’s really a combination of fresh ingredients tossed together to create a simple dish in under five minutes.
Trampó or trempó — it’s the same thing. The only difference is how it’s spelled, which depends on the village or the person pronouncing it. Both terms come from the verb trempar, which means to season, usually with oil and salt.
As we were saying: under five minutes, three ingredients (plus the seasoning), and you’ve got the perfect companion for a gathering filled with laughter, unforgettable moments, and a meal that turns your evening into something truly special.
Mallorca, its people, its traditions, and its culinary customs go far beyond five-star restaurants. Mallorca is magic, it’s about shared moments, and it’s filled with unique, special flavors.
Enjoy!
PS: Get yourself a “SENALLA” so you can go to the market and get all you need 🙂
Stylish & Cool… 🙂
