Ayllón's Cod and Roasted Bell Pepper Salad

The Castilian charm that captivates visitors during summers in the Sierra de Ayllón

Ayllón, one of the most beautiful medieval towns in Castile and León, is known for its arcaded squares, its red-stone buildings, and its extraordinary historical heritage. However, gastronomy is also an essential part of this Segovian town’s identity, where Castilian tradition has adapted to the seasons and makes the most of the produce available throughout the year.

Among the most popular recipes during the summer months is the cod and roasted pepper salad—a fresh, light, and flavorful dish that combines simple ingredients with a preparation method rooted in respect for the ingredients themselves.

Although Castile is famous for its roasts and stews, summer invites us to enjoy lighter dishes. This salad has become one of the most iconic choices for warm days, especially at family gatherings and outdoor celebrations.

For centuries, cod was one of the most widely consumed foods in the interior of the Iberian Peninsula thanks to how easily it could be preserved and transported. Its presence in Castilian cuisine gave rise to numerous recipes that are still part of the region’s culinary heritage today.

In Ayllón, cod found the perfect pairing in garden produce and traditional roasted peppers, slowly cooked to bring out their full flavor. The combination of these two ingredients gave rise to a simple recipe that continues to be highly prized for its balance and freshness.

Ayllón’s cuisine reflects the essence of Castile: honest recipes, quality ingredients, and a strong connection to the land. Although meat plays an important role in the local cuisine, seasonal vegetables and preserved foods have historically played a fundamental role in everyday meals.

The cod and roasted pepper salad is a magnificent example of this traditional cuisine, capable of transforming simple ingredients into dishes full of character.

Moreover, its refreshing nature makes it an ideal choice for the summer months, when visitors stroll through the town’s historic streets and enjoy its natural surroundings.

The most commonly used ingredients in this recipe are:

• Desalted cod

• Roasted red peppers

• Sweet onion

• Extra virgin olive oil

• Garlic

• Black olives

• Fresh parsley

• Salt

Some variations include seasonal tomatoes or a hard-boiled egg to enhance the dish.

The peppers are roasted slowly until they become tender and develop a slightly sweet flavor. They are then peeled and cut into strips.

The cod, which has been desalted beforehand, is carefully flaked and mixed with the peppers, onion, and olives.

Finally, the mixture is dressed with extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh parsley, then set aside for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

The result is a well-balanced, aromatic, and very refreshing salad that can be served as an appetizer or as a main course on warmer days.

This recipe highlights Castilian cuisine’s ability to adapt to the seasons without losing its essence. The cod evokes the ancient trade routes that supplied the interior of the peninsula, while the roasted peppers reflect the importance of garden produce in traditional cooking.

Together, they create a dish that connects history, region, and culinary tradition in every bite.