Diet
The staple foods in Portugal include fish, vegetables, and fruits. One of the national dishes is bacalhau (dried cod), which is usually served with potatoes and green vegetables, and sometimes beans. The traditional Portuguese salad includes dark green lettuce, tomatoes, onions, vinegar, olive oil, and salt. Olive oil is the favorite cooking oil, and garlic is a commonly used seasoning. Sweets are very popular. Wine is inexpensive and consumed by all members of the family with their meals.
Mealtime
The continental style of eating is followed. Portuguese eat with a knife and fork. One should not to stretch at the table. It is important to keep the hands above the table.
A small breakfast is eaten around 8 AM, a large lunch at about 1 PM, and dinner is generally served between 8 and 9 PM.