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50 Finest Spanish Tapas Recipes


If you wish to convey Spanish flavors into your kitchen, you are in the suitable place. We have collected 50 of our favourite Spanish tapas recipes—all of them straightforward, genuine, and assured to make you fall in love with this nation’s delicacies (if you have not already)!

Overhead shot of Spanish tapas and glasses of red wine on a white table.

Spanish tapas have earned a global repute amongst cooks, foodies, and culinary vacationers. These iconic dishes are available in many varieties, from conventional specialties to worldwide fusion. In the event you ask 10 totally different individuals, “what are tapas?” you will most likely get 10 totally different solutions.

That stated, probably the most genuine tapas are typically easy combos of high-quality substances: cured ham, native cheeses, seasonal produce, recent seafood, and loads of olive oil (to call only a few).

It is also straightforward to seek out vegetarian tapas and vegan tapas in Spain—in reality, among the most basic tapas occur to be plant-based.

If you wish to take pleasure in this iconic side of Spanish delicacies at dwelling, all you want are just a few high quality merchandise, a little bit of motivation, and—in fact—good recipes! To present you some inspiration and aid you get began, we have rounded up 50 of our greatest Spanish tapas recipes.

Prime 50 Spanish Tapas Recipes

Listed below are our favourite Spanish tapas recipes, from easy snacks to extra advanced cooking challenges. One factor all of them have in frequent? The top result’s scrumptious, genuine, and excellent for events—or only a good meal at dwelling.

The Classics

1. Tortilla de Patatas

A thick, golden brown potato omelet on a plate, before being sliced.
The commonest tapa in all of Spain!

That is just about the quintessential tapa: a Spanish omelet that is typically served at room temperature and accompanied by crusty bread.

It is often made with simply eggs, potatoes, and onions—however as soon as you have bought the fundamental recipe down, you’ll be able to swap issues up by including veggies, cheese, and even ham.

Spanish Tortilla Recipe (Tortilla de Patatas)

This straightforward and genuine Spanish omelet recipe combines egg, potato, onion, olive oil, and salt to make the most effective Spanish tortilla you will strive.

Take a look at this recipe

tortilla de patata cut into slices on a cutting board.

2. Pan con Tomate

Slice of toasted bread topped with olive oil and pureed tomato.
Tomatoes at their best!

Earlier than I lived in Spain, I by no means would’ve thought to place grated tomatoes on toast. However this combo is a staple of the Spanish food regimen, and now it looks like probably the most pure factor on the planet.

Our recipe requires loads of garlic, making this straightforward tapa much more addictive. Do not skimp on the salt and olive oil!

Pan con Tomate Recipe (Spanish Tomato Bread)

Pan con tomate, additionally identified in Spain as pan tumaca or pa amb tomàquet in Catalan, is toasted bread topped with ripe, juicy tomatoes, additional virgin olive oil, garlic, and salt. It is easy and scrumptious!

Take a look at this recipe

several slices of toasted bread topped with a grated tomato mixture.

3. Spanish Olives

Ceramic bowl filled with green and purple olives at different stages of ripeness.
Quite a lot of recent olives at totally different phases of ripeness

At Spanish bars, one of the vital frequent tapas can be the best: a dish of olives. However these aren’t simply any previous olives from a jar—they’re typically regionally grown, extremely juicy and flavorful, and generally marinated in herbs or garlic.

No tapas unfold is full with no bowl of Spanish olives, ideally together with just a few totally different varieties.

4. Spanish Cheese & Cured Meats

Overhead shot of small cheese and charcuterie trays beside two wine glasses on a marble tabletop.
Charcuterie, cheese, and wine: the last word tapas trifecta

Showcase among the nation’s finest merchandise by creating your individual Spanish charcuterie board. You possibly can by no means go fallacious with the fundamentals: Manchego and jamón ibérico.

However do not cease there! Spend a while exploring the great world of Spanish cheeses, and add a choice of chorizo, salchichón, and no matter different Spanish cured meats yow will discover.

5. Croquetas de Jamón

Several crispy Spanish ham croquettes on a white plate, one broken in half.
Excellent croquetas de jamón. Picture credit score: Giulia Verdinelli

There’s nothing fairly as comforting as biting right into a crispy croqueta and tasting the wealthy and creamy filling inside.

Croquetas de jamón are probably the most basic model: croquettes full of do-it-yourself béchamel and items of cured Serrano ham. The recipe is a little bit of a undertaking, however the result’s completely value it.

Croquetas de Jamón Serrano Recipe (Conventional Spanish Ham Croquettes)

This straightforward and scrumptious recipe for Spanish ham croquettes is my mother-in-law’s favourite.

Take a look at this recipe

small white plate of croquetas de jamón.

6. Huevos Rotos

Fried potatoes topped with runny fried eggs and served on a white plate.
Huevos rotos at a Madrid tapas bar! Picture credit score: Kirk Ok

If you would like a filling and indulgent tapa, you’ll be able to’t go fallacious with huevos rotos. The fundamental components are deep-fried potatoes and runny fried eggs, but it surely’s frequent so as to add Iberian ham, chorizo, or greens.

You may discover this dish at most of the most basic tapas bars in Madrid, but it surely’s additionally straightforward to make at dwelling. Wait till you serve it to interrupt the egg yolks open—they do not name it “damaged eggs” for nothing.

Huevos Rotos Recipe (Spanish Damaged Eggs with Ham, Chorizo, & Peppers)

This scrumptious and straightforward Spanish huevos rotos recipe makes for the proper last-minute dinner!

Take a look at this recipe

what to eat in Madrid

7. Gilda

Skewers of anchovies, peppers, and green olives arranged on a square plate.
The gilda is among the best—and most scrumptious—pintxos on the market.

This straightforward pintxo (the equal of a tapa in Basque delicacies) would not require any cooking—just a few skewering abilities.

The basic model consists of an anchovy, a pickled pepper, and an olive impaled on a toothpick, however you’ll be able to all the time strive different combos. Gildas are the proper accompaniment to an aperitif like Spanish vermouth.

Simple Spanish Gilda Recipe (Pepper, Olive, & Anchovy Skewers)

This gilda recipe makes the proper Spanish pintxo to function an appetizer! It is salty, acidic, and scrumptious—good for pairing with cocktails or Spanish vermouth.

Take a look at this recipe

Lekeitio pinchos

8. Pisto

A bowl of slow-simmered vegetables topped with a fried egg.
A warming dish of pisto con huevo. Picture credit score: Javier Lastras

Spanish pisto is usually in comparison with French ratatouille. It is a basic mixture of varied greens and tomatoes, cooked till all their flavors meld collectively.

In Spain, it is typically served as a tapa with a fried egg or cheese on prime, and even as a aspect dish with meat or fish. But it surely’s additionally nice all by itself!

Conventional Spanish Pisto Recipe

Strive my scrumptious pisto recipe – sort of like a Spanish model of ratatouille!

Take a look at this recipe

red pot of pisto with a wooden spoon.

Vegetarian & Vegan Tapas Recipes

9. Pimientos de Padrón

A plate of fried green Padrón peppers, with one pepper hanging from a fork.
“Some are sizzling, and a few aren’t” is the everyday saying about these little peppers! Picture credit score: Giulia Verdinelli

This is perhaps my all-time favourite vegetarian (and vegan) tapa. Padrón peppers are straightforward to make, wholesome, indulgent (salt and olive oil galore), and thrilling all on the identical time.

How can peppers be thrilling, you ask? Nicely, supposedly about 1 in each 10 of them is spicy… so you’ll be able to by no means be fairly certain what the subsequent chew will convey!

Spanish Padrón Peppers Recipe

Padrón peppers are one of many easiest and tastiest Spanish tapas. Strive making them at dwelling with this straightforward and genuine recipe!

Take a look at this recipe

white plate of cooked pimientos de Padrón.

10. Espinacas con Garbanzos

Sautéed spinach and chickpeas mixed together in a large frying pan.
Scrumptious spinach and chickpea stew

This can be a tremendous conventional tapa that additionally occurs to be vegan. It is a easy mixture of spinach, chickpeas, and spices (our recipe additionally provides tomatoes and almonds for additional taste).

Whereas it might actually be served as a most important course, it is also a fantastic dish to share or serve in small parts.

Espinacas con Garbanzos Recipe (Spinach and Chickpea Stew)

A Spanish-style recipe for spinach and chickpea stew (espinacas con garbanzos) that may have you ever craving one other chew!

Take a look at this recipe

three small bowls of espinacas con garbanzo.

11. Berenjenas con Miel

Honey being drizzled over fried eggplant slices with a metal spoon.
Probably the most unlikely but scrumptious taste mixture! Picture credit score: Giulia Verdinelli

In the event you’re doubting that deep-fried eggplant and honey go nicely collectively, put together to be stunned! This vegetarian tapa is a mainstay of many Spanish menus, particularly in Andalusia. You may also simply make it vegan by substituting molasses (miel de caña) for the honey.

Fried Eggplant with Honey Recipe (Berenjenas Fritas con Miel)

This scrumptious fried eggplant with honey is a typical Spanish tapa. Simple to make and even simpler to eat!

Take a look at this recipe

plate of golden fried eggplant drizzled with honey.

12. Romesco Sauce & Roasted Veggies

A plate of roasted vegetables with grill marks and a small bowl of orange romesco sauce.
Roasted greens and romesco sauce: wholesome and scrumptious!

This is among the finest Catalan meals I’ve ever tried. There are such a lot of wonderful Spanish sauces, however romesco has a particular place in my coronary heart. It combines roasted tomatoes, peppers, garlic, and nuts to create a very distinctive taste—and coloration!

Serve it with easy roasted greens for an genuine, versatile, and tremendous wholesome tapa.

Genuine & Simple Romesco Sauce Recipe (Salsa Romesco)

This scrumptious and straightforward romesco sauce recipe leads to my all-time favourite dipping sauce. Nutty and scrumptious—it is a must-try!

Take a look at this recipe

Romesco sauce recipe - the best
Mediterranean Roasted Greens Recipe

This straightforward recipe for Mediterranean roasted greens is the proper approach to make the veggies in your pantry sing! You need to use virtually any greens you’ve gotten readily available.

Take a look at this recipe

Typical foods to eat in Barcelona.

13. Black Olive Tapenade

Mallorca is known for its distinctive delicacies, and this black olive unfold is among the finest Mallorcan dishes. You possibly can unfold it on bread, serve it with cheese, and even add it to a sandwich. It is also a fantastic addition to salads and a scrumptious topping for recent greens.

Spanish Black Olive Tapenade Recipe

Strive our recipe for scrumptious Spanish black olive tapenade from the island of Mallorca.

Take a look at this recipe

Spanish black olive tapenade

14. Goat Cheese & Caramelized Onion Pintxo

In the event you’ve ever been to Spain, you have most likely come throughout the combo of goat cheese and caramelized onion. It is a frequent (and scrumptious) vegetarian choice at tapas bars—and you’ll simply recreate it at dwelling with this fast and straightforward pintxo recipe.

Goat Cheese & Caramelized Onion Pintxo Recipe

This goat cheese and caramelized onion pintxo is a straightforward appetizer good for when it’s essential impress visitors in a rush! It is a San Sebastian pintxo bar basic and a complete crowd-pleaser.

Take a look at this recipe

Small pieces of crusty bread topped with goat cheese and caramelized onions, all held together with a toothpick.

15. Fried Goat Cheese with Honey

Several small pieces of golden brown fried goat cheese on a white napkin.
These fried goat cheese bites are severely addictive! Picture credit score: Steam Pipe Trunk Distribution Venue

Fried cheese is perhaps considered one of humanity’s best creations… and fried goat cheese with honey is actually considered one of Spain’s. Our recipe requires crushed almonds and crackers to create a salty, crunchy crust: the proper distinction to the creamy cheese inside and candy honey on prime.

Fried Goat Cheese with Honey Recipe

This straightforward almond-crusted fried goat cheese with honey recipe is out of this world! A must-try vegetarian Spanish tapa.

Take a look at this recipe

Almond crusted fried goat cheese with honey

16. Zanahorias Aliñadas

A person's hand using a fork to eat marinated carrots in olive oil off a plate.
Zanahorias aliñadas: a scrumptious carrot salad flavored with olive oil, vinegar, and a easy spice mix

I by no means knew how scrumptious carrots might be till I attempted zanahorias aliñadas. This mainstay of Andalusian delicacies consists of boiled carrot slices marinated in vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and spices.

The ultimate product must be tender, however not mushy; be sure you do not cook dinner them for too lengthy!

Marinated Carrots Recipe (Zanahorias Aliñadas)

Marinated carrots, or zanahorias aliñadas, are a scrumptious vegetarian Spanish meals. Fortunately, they’re additionally tremendous straightforward to make at dwelling!

Take a look at this recipe

zanahorias aliñadas recipe

17. Spanish-Type Hummus

Two clay bowls of hummus topped with pine nuts, olive oil, and paprika, paired with pita bread.
Scrumptious Spanish hummus with loads of olive oil!

Hummus would not hail from Spain, however as we speak it isn’t unusual to seek out it on the menu at Spanish tapas bars. Our model provides an Iberian twist with smoked paprika, cumin, and toasted pine nuts.

This tremendous easy Spanish hummus recipe is ideal for events, and is considered one of my private favourite vegan tapas.

Spanish Hummus Recipe

This straightforward Spanish hummus recipe is topped with toasted pine nuts, smoky Spanish paprika, spicy olive oil, and sea salt flakes. Spectacular and scrumptious!

Take a look at this recipe

Two clay tapas dishes filled with hummus with pine nuts and paprika.

Spanish Tapas Recipes with Potatoes

18. Patatas Bravas

Dish of fried potato chunks topped with garlic mayonnaise, spicy red sauce, and sprigs of herbs.
Patatas bravas topped with alioli along with the signature bravas sauce

Fried potatoes might not appear revolutionary, however Spain’s model is in a league of its personal. Chunks of potato are fried in olive oil and topped with a barely spicy sauce. Regardless of its look, there are not any tomatoes concerned; bravas sauce will get its brilliant pink coloration from smoked Spanish paprika.

Tip: Though our recipe requires rooster broth, you’ll be able to simply make it vegetarian by substituting vegetable broth.

Patatas Bravas Recipe

Patatas bravas are one of the vital beloved Spanish tapas, because of their easy mixture of fried potatoes and flavorful sauce. Make them at dwelling with this straightforward recipe!

Take a look at this recipe

white plate of patatas bravas with toothpicks.

19. Potato Croquettes

Close-up of a plate of golden brown croquettes.
A ración of croquettes

Ham is perhaps the preferred croquetas taste, but it surely’s not the one one! Potato croquettes are an excellent fast and straightforward (and vegetarian) model that everybody on the desk will love.

We recommend including Manchego cheese to the filling, however you’ll be able to simply personalize this tapas recipe with no matter sounds good to you.

Potato Croquettes Recipe

These creamy potato and cheese croquetas are a scrumptious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack.

Take a look at this recipe

plate of potato croquettes.

20. Ensaladilla Rusa

Overhead shot of creamy Spanish potato salad with breadstick crackers on a metal table.
Ensaladilla rusa is among the most refreshing tapas on a sizzling day.

This dish is perhaps referred to as “Russian salad,” but it surely’s about as Spanish because it will get. In the event you’re a fan of American potato salad, you completely should strive ensaladilla rusa.

I counsel including additional greens and even canned tuna, and serving it with crunchy crackers or crusty bread. It is one of many all-time finest Spanish tapas recipes for certain.

Ensaladilla Rusa Recipe (Russian Potato Salad)

Ensaladilla rusa is considered one of Spain’s commonest dishes—regardless of its Russian roots! Do that genuine recipe for an unforgettable appetizer or aspect dish.

Take a look at this recipe

Spanish Dining Etiquette: Off-Times Eating

21. Patatas Alioli

Yet one more basic Spanish tapas recipe starring potatoes, patatas alioli are additionally just like potato salad—however with far more garlic (and with out the veggies you will discover in ensaladilla rusa). They make for the proper snack, appetizer, or aspect dish for a Spanish-style barbecue.

Patatas Alioli (Potatoes with Garlic Sauce)

This easy tapa of potatoes with garlic sauce is a Spanish basic—as tasty as it’s easy!

Take a look at this recipe

Patatas alioli recipe.

22. Patatas Aliñadas

Patatas aliñadas are sliced potatoes wearing vinegar and olive oil, and topped with tuna and hard-boiled egg. Be sure to get the highest-quality substances attainable, because the simplicity of this tapa actually lets them shine. You do not have to make use of Spanish tuna, however I extremely suggest it.

Patatas Aliñadas Recipe (Spanish Potato Salad)

Patatas aliñadas are a conventional tapa in Andalusia, and this Spanish potato salad recipe makes for the proper summer time aspect dish.

Take a look at this recipe

patatas aliñadas recipe

23. Patatas a lo Pobre

Potatoes clearly play a distinguished function in lots of Spanish tapas recipes, however it is a significantly scrumptious approach to take pleasure in them. Patatas a lo pobre characteristic a mixture of potatoes, onions, inexperienced peppers, and garlic—easy, timeless, and cheap (because the identify suggests)!

Papas a lo Pobre Recipe (Poor Man’s Potatoes)

Much like the house fries I grew up consuming in america, these thinly sliced Malaga-style potatoes are cooked with onion and inexperienced pepper.

Take a look at this recipe

Spanish Tapas Recipes with Meat

24. Pinchos Morunos

Chunks of marinated pork on wooden skewers on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Spanish pork skewers pack loads of spice! Picture credit score: Giulia Verdinelli

These marinated pork skewers depend on a mix of spices that displays Spain’s Moorish historical past. The identify actually interprets to “Moorish pork skewers,” though the Moors themselves most likely made their model with lamb.

You possibly can experiment with totally different spice blends—simply be sure you let the meat marinate for not less than two hours.

Pinchos Morunos Recipe (Spanish Pork Skewers)

These mouthwatering Spanish pork skewers are referred to as pinchos morunos due to their fascinating historical past. The marinade is an excellent flavorful mix of spices!

Take a look at this recipe

several skewers of pinchos morunos on a plate with lemon wedges.

25. Chorizo a la Sidra

There are infinite methods to take pleasure in Spanish chorizo, and this recipe combines it with one other legendary native product: sidra (cider). Spanish cider is way much less candy than you is perhaps used to, so if you cannot get your fingers on some, use the sourest cider yow will discover. In Spain, search for Basque or Asturian cider.

Chorizo a la Sidra Recipe (Chorizo Cooked in Cider)

Do that basic Spanish tapas dish: smoky chorizo sausage cooked in apple cider.

Take a look at this recipe

Chorizo cooked in red wine

26. Chorizo al Vino Tinto

Chorizo is great all by itself, however this straightforward tapas recipe takes it up a notch by including pink wine. Simmering the cured sausage in wine with garlic and bay leaves provides an additional dimension of taste. It solely takes half an hour from begin to end, making this the proper last-minute recipe.

Chorizo al Vino Tinto Recipe (Chorizo in Pink Wine)

This basic Spanish tapas recipe makes a easy and scrumptious appetizer. Braising the chorizo in pink wine infuses it with wonderful taste!

Take a look at this recipe

chorizo sausages

27. Champiñones al Ajillo con Chorizo

Chorizo-stuffed mushrooms on a white plate beside a short glass of red wine.
Chorizo-stuffed mushrooms are a assured crowd-pleaser!

In the event you’re searching for a fantastic bite-sized tapa to serve at your subsequent ceremonial dinner, look no additional. These garlicky roasted mushrooms are full of chorizo and breadcrumbs, combining a few of Spain’s finest flavors in a single scrumptious mouthful.

Spanish Chorizo-Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe (Champiñones al Ajillo con Chorizo)

These chorizo-stuffed mushrooms are the proper mild appetizer, bringing the genuine flavors of a Madrid tapas bar proper to your plate!

Take a look at this recipe

chorizo mushrooms in Madrid

28. Albóndigas

Overhead shot of saucy meatballs in a large brown serving dish.
No pasta wanted for these meatballs!

These aren’t the type of meatballs you serve over spaghetti; in Spain, albóndigas are often loved on their very own. They’re typically made with floor pork, and our recipe provides chorizo for an additional kick. Be sure to have some white wine—or, even higher, Spanish sherry—readily available for the sauce.

Traditional Albóndigas Recipe (Spanish Chorizo & Pork Meatballs)

This genuine Spanish pork and chorizo albóndigas recipe is the proper addition to any tapas night time!

Take a look at this recipe

Spanish chorizo meatballs

29. Flamenquín

Fried pork rolls stuffed with melty cheese on a white plate with French fries and ketchup.
Flamenquines give all different Spanish pork dishes a run for his or her cash! Picture credit score: Kent Wang

In the event you do not suppose tapas might be filling, this recipe will change your thoughts. Flamenquín is a basic deal with from town of Córdoba in Andalusia. It consists of pork, cured ham, and cheese, rolled up collectively after which breaded and deep-fried. It is typically sliced and served in tapas-sized parts.

Flamenquín Cordobés Recipe (Andalusian Fried Pork Rolls)

This fried pork-and-cheese roll is a basic tapas dish served in taverns all through southern Spain. Get your conventional flamenquín cordobés recipe proper right here!

Take a look at this recipe

Flamenquín pork roll in Cordoba Spain

30. Rabo de Toro

A bowl of Spanish bull tail stew served over mashed potatoes.
Scrumptious Spanish rabo de toro is a typical dish from Andalusia.

The identify of this dish actually means “bull’s tail,” however lately most rabo de toro is definitely made with oxtail or cow tail.

Whereas stewed beef might not sound like a small plate, it is the proper instance of how Spanish tapas can take many varieties. Be sure to accompany it with fried potatoes and bread to take in all that sauce.

Rabo de Toro Recipe (Spanish Bull Tail Stew)

Gradual-cooked Spanish bull tail stew (often known as rabo de toro estofado or oxtail stew) is considered one of the nation’s commonest dishes, relationship again to Roman instances.

Take a look at this recipe

dish of rabo de toro with a fork.

31. Carrillada

Braised pork cheek in a thin sauce, served on a white plate.
Unimaginable carrillada in Seville

Carrillada is among the most ubiquitous dishes in Spain, with tons of variations and inventive takes on the fundamental idea: braised cheek (often pork, beef, or lamb).

As soon as you are taking a chew, you will surprise why on earth you have by no means tried it earlier than. Our model makes use of Port wine and honey to steadiness out the wealthy taste with a contact of sweetness.

Carrillada Recipe (Braised Iberian Pork Cheek with Port Wine and Honey)

A scrumptious Spanish pork cheek recipe that is certain to transform any skeptic!

Take a look at this recipe

braised pork cheek

32. Bacon-Wrapped Dates

Several bacon-wrapped dates on a wooden platter.
You solely want three or 4 substances for this straightforward and spectacular tapa! Picture credit score: Giulia Verdinelli

This fashionable tapa has already received over individuals internationally, because of its good mixture of salty and candy.

Our recipe requires Marcona almonds and goat cheese, however you’ll be able to stuff the dates with no matter you want. And for an additional Spanish contact, you’ll be able to even wrap them in jamón serrano (though bacon is fairly exhausting to beat).

Spanish Bacon-Wrapped Dates Recipe (Dátiles Rellenos)

This bacon-wrapped dates recipe is my go-to appetizer for dinner events of any measurement! You simply want just a few substances and about 20 minutes to make this scrumptious dish.

Take a look at this recipe

white plate of bacon wrapped dates with toothpicks.

33. Roasted Asparagus Wrapped in Ham

Green asparagus spears wrapped in slices of cured ham on a white plate.
Ham and asparagus is a match made in heaven! Picture credit score: Snow

Roasted asparagus wrapped in ham is a enjoyable and inventive tapa that is good for events—and a good way to get children to eat their greens.

There’s one thing concerning the recent inexperienced asparagus paired with wealthy and salty ham that is completely irresistible. And if you wish to make it meat-free, sun-dried tomatoes are a fantastic different.

Recipe for Roasted Asparagus Wrapped in Ham with Manchego Cheese

A scrumptious ham-wrapped asparagus recipe topped with Manchego cheese for additional taste.

Take a look at this recipe

A delicious ham wrapped asparagus recipe with Manchego cheese on top!

Spanish Tapas Recipes with Seafood

34. Gambas al Ajillo

Gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp) in small clay tapas dishes topped with fresh herbs.
Scrumptious gambas al ajillo! Picture credit score: Giulia Verdinelli

This is among the most fun tapas to order at a Spanish bar, because it typically comes out of the kitchen piping sizzling and scorching! Gambas al ajillo are peeled shrimp soaked in garlicky olive oil, generally with recent herbs.

These Spanish garlic shrimp are a crowd-pleasing tapa to make in your subsequent get together. Clay dishes are non-compulsory, however extremely really helpful.

Gambas al Ajillo Recipe (Spanish Garlic Shrimp)

My mother-in-law’s gambas al ajillo recipe is considered one of Spain’s finest. Piping sizzling garlic shrimp, soaked in olive oil with a barely spicy kick!

Take a look at this recipe

bowl of gambas al ajillo with a red pepper.

35. Boiled Shrimp

Boiled shrimp on a plate next to a glass of pale yellow sherry wine.
The right pairing: recent boiled shrimp and sherry wine!

Boiled shrimp is the proper instance of a easy tapas recipe that lets the principle ingredient shine; all you want is recent shrimp, salt, and water! When you strive it, you will by no means wish to boil shrimp some other approach.

In Spain, gambas cocidas are often served alone, generally with a lemon wedge, however you’ll be able to all the time add a dip or sauce if you’d like.

Excellent Boiled Shrimp (Gambas Cocidas)

I realized this straightforward boiled shrimp recipe from my mother-in-law, and it makes probably the most scrumptious and tender shrimp I’ve ever tried!

Take a look at this recipe

boiled shrimp on a white plate with lemon slices and a sprig of parsley.

36. Shrimp Skewers

Shrimp skewers coated in spices and herbs on a white plate with sliced tomatoes and bread.
The right tapa to take pleasure in by the ocean!

Shrimp skewers are amongst my favourite Spanish tapas recipes for summer time, good for grilling within the yard and having fun with with a chilly drink. All you want is recent shrimp, garlic, paprika, salt, and olive oil. For serving concepts, strive pairing these with bread and alioli (Spanish garlic mayonnaise).

Shrimp Skewers Recipe (Brochetas de Gambas)

These easy shrimp skewers are considered one of our favourite tapas to order in Málaga, however they’re additionally straightforward to make at dwelling!

Take a look at this recipe

37. Boquerones Fritos

A small plate of fried anchovies next to a few empty glasses.
Boquerones fritos: one of the vital scrumptious methods to eat anchovies!

Anchovies is usually a bit divisive, however even the pickiest eaters have been identified to fall in love with boquerones fritos. A beneficiant dose of olive oil, salt, and lemon makes them a straightforward transition for anchovy skeptics.

There’s nothing fairly nearly as good as biting into piping-hot boquerones in a crowded Spanish tapas bar, however this recipe comes shut.

Spanish Fried Anchovies (Boquerones Fritos)

These Spanish fried anchovies are the proper tapas recipe to convey the style of Spain to your kitchen. They’re straightforward to organize and exhausting to cease consuming!

Take a look at this recipe

Not sure where to eat in Valencia on Sundays? We recommend Casa Montaña for their great seafood!

38. Boquerones en Vinagre

A dish of six anchovies soaked in vinegar and olive oil and topped with fresh herbs.
Scrumptious boquerones en vinagre at a Barcelona tapas bar

I additionally love fried and canned anchovies, however in my view, boquerones en vinagre is the very best approach to eat them. As an alternative of being preserved in salt, they’re cured in vinegar, which provides a robust taste that balances out the fishiness.

I counsel pairing them with bread, potato chips, and Spanish vermouth… ideally on a Sunday afternoon within the solar.

Boquerones en Vinagre Recipe (Marinated Anchovies)

Make completely marinated anchovies with this conventional recipe for boquerones en vinagre.

Take a look at this recipe

Boquerones en Vinagre in Barcelona restaurant

39. Almejas a la Marinera

A large dish of clams covered in a bright orange sauce and herbs.
Almejas a la marinera are severely addictive!

This can be a basic recipe for Spanish-style clams, cooked in a sauce of garlic, white wine, paprika, and herbs.

Though the identify would possibly recall to mind tomato sauce, in Spanish marinera simply signifies that it is associated to the ocean. It is a frequent vacation meals in Spain, however that does not imply it’s a must to wait till winter to strive it!

Almejas a la Marinera (Spanish-Type Clams)

An genuine recipe for almejas a la marinera, typically served as a Spanish appetizer at Christmas dinner. These Spanish-style clams are addictive, so make heaps!

Take a look at this recipe

Healthy Spanish Recipes are packed with flavor like these Marinera style clams

40. Clams with Chorizo

Close-up of clams with parsley, garlic, and crumbled chorizo.
One of the unbelievable seafood tapas on the market. Picture credit score: Tom Ipri

This recipe for clams with chorizo combines three core components of Spanish delicacies: garlic, seafood, and cured meat.

Regardless of its spectacular look—to not point out taste—it comes collectively in simply half an hour. Plus, you solely want one pan (much less time washing dishes means extra time for consuming).

Recipe for Spanish Clams with Chorizo in Garlic Sauce

This Spanish clams and chorizo recipe is the proper dish to whip out for visitors. Remember the bread to mop up all that scrumptious sauce!

Take a look at this recipe

clams with chorizo and garlic

41. Tortillitas de Camarones

A golden brown, crispy shrimp fritter on a white plate.
A crispy and scrumptious tortillita de camarones!

The primary time I attempted tortillitas de camarones, I wasn’t anticipating a lot. It simply felt like an obligation whereas visiting the seaside city of Cádiz. However I used to be pleasantly stunned!

These skinny and crispy shrimp fritters are completely addictive. If you cannot make it to southern Spain, this recipe is the subsequent smartest thing.

Tortillitas de Camarones (Spanish Shrimp Fritters)

These crispy shrimp fritters from Cádiz in southern Spain are the proper summertime snack. Pair them with a glass of dry sherry for an actual style of Andalusia!

Take a look at this recipe

tortillas de camarones

42. Calamares Fritos

A large bowl of fried calamari rings with a lemon wedge and a fork.
Calamares fritos with lemon and alioli! Picture credit score: Giulia Verdinelli

Calamares fritos is a basic tapa to take pleasure in by the seaside, ideally made with freshly caught Spanish squid. However in case you’re making it at dwelling, don’t fret; frozen squid works simply as nicely.

These fried squid rings are crunchy on the skin and tender on the within, and finest served with a beneficiant squeeze of recent lemon.

Fried Calamari Recipe (Calamares Fritos)

This Spanish fried calamari recipe is straightforward and scrumptious! With only a handful of substances and some easy steps, you will have restaurant-quality tapas very quickly.

Take a look at this recipe

A big plate of fried calamari with a lemon wedge.

43. Tuna Empanada

A tray with slices of baked empanada and Spanish omelet on a tabletop with Spanish vermouth.
Freshly baked tuna empanada

You would possibly image empanadas as half-moon formed hand pies. And whereas you can see these in Spain, the true Spanish empanada appears to be like extra like a big, flat rectangular pie. This Galician deal with is often full of tomato and tuna or different kinds of seafood, however the choices are really infinite.

Baked Tuna Empanada Recipe (Empanada de Atún)

Do that genuine Spanish tuna empanada recipe for an genuine style of Galicia at dwelling.

Take a look at this recipe

A delicious and easy homemade tuna empanada recipe for a Galician style baked tuna empanada.

44. Tuna Stuffed Piquillo Peppers

A person's hand holding a blue-and-white plate of red peppers stuffed with tuna.
Two canned delicacies in a single: piquillo peppers full of Spanish tuna. Picture credit score: Stijn Nieuwendijk

Piquillo peppers are considered one of Spain’s best treasures. They may not look so particular at first look, however they’re extremely candy and smoky—offering the proper distinction to high-quality Spanish canned tuna.

This recipe for tuna stuffed piquillo peppers unites two of the preferred Spanish canned meals, or conservas, in an exceptionally easy-to-make pintxo.

Tuna Stuffed Piquillo Peppers Recipe

You possibly can put together this tuna stuffed piquillo peppers recipe very quickly! It is a basic Spanish pintxo for any event.

Take a look at this recipe

A person's hand holding a blue and white plate of red peppers stuffed with tuna

Spanish Chilly Soup Recipes

45. Gazpacho

Close-up of a bowl of pale orange gazpacho topped with diced veggies and olive oil.
Refreshing gazpacho with loads of recent veggies. Picture credit score: Giulia Verdinelli

Gazpacho is among the most well-known Spanish meals, and the proper tapa for a sizzling summer time day. It is tremendous wholesome and refreshing, requiring nothing greater than some recent greens, tomatoes, olive oil, vinegar, and salt. It would not get a lot simpler (or extra genuine) than this.

Genuine Gazpacho Recipe

The most effective Spanish gazpacho recipe I’ve ever tried. This refreshing chilled soup is a mix of various greens with olive oil, vinegar, and salt.

Take a look at this recipe

large bowl of gazpacho garnished with apple and tomato.

46. Watermelon Mint Gazpacho

Two clear glasses of watermelon gazpacho garnished with mint.
Strive watermelon mint gazpacho for a flavorful twist on the normal recipe!

For a enjoyable twist on Spanish gazpacho, do that refreshing recipe that provides a favourite summer time fruit. Watermelon gazpacho is the proper tapa for a backyard get together or picnic, garnished with mint and served in small glasses or bowls. And it solely takes 10 minute to organize!

Watermelon Mint Gazpacho Recipe

A refreshing twist on basic Spanish gazpacho, my watermelon mint gazpacho recipe is a good way to chill off on a sizzling summer time day!

Take a look at this recipe

Watermelon gazpacho recipe

47. Inexperienced Gazpacho

Close-up of a bowl of green gazpacho drizzled with olive oil and topped with fresh mint.
Scrumptious and wholesome inexperienced tomato gazpacho

Inexperienced gazpacho is one other fashionable tackle the basic, that includes inexperienced tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado. It is probably not probably the most conventional Spanish soup, but it surely’s nonetheless a worthy contender in your tapas lineup. If you wish to make the inexperienced coloration even brighter, add a handful of spinach.

Inexperienced Gazpacho Recipe (Gazpacho Verde)

My scrumptious and straightforward inexperienced gazpacho recipe is the proper chilly soup for summer time.

Take a look at this recipe

Green gazpacho in a white bowl with avocado and lemon in the background.

48. Salmorejo

Bright orange salmorejo in a white bowl topped with hard-boiled egg and cured ham.
Salmorejo is considered one of Andalusia’s must-try meals.

You have most likely heard of gazpacho, however what about salmorejo? This chilly soup will get its creamy texture from the addition of stale bread, which is mixed proper in with tomatoes, garlic, salt, vinegar, and olive oil. It is typically topped with cured ham and hard-boiled egg.

Salmorejo Recipe

The most effective Spanish salmorejo recipe I’ve ever tried—straight from my mother-in-law’s cookbook to your kitchen!

Take a look at this recipe

shallow bowl of salmorejo garnished with ham and boiled egg.

49. Beet Salmorejo

This fashionable twist on salmorejo requires beets and a little bit of orange juice—a shocking duo that provides a particular kick to this chilly tomato soup. I counsel getting inventive with toppings; suppose sardines, cheese, olives, and even fruit. The completed recipe isn’t solely scrumptious, but additionally a beautiful coloration!

Beet Salmorejo Recipe (Chilly Beet Soup)

Do that scrumptious chilly beet soup for a wholesome and colourful tackle the basic Spanish salmorejo.

Take a look at this recipe

A delicious beet salmorejo recipe. A Spanish cold beet soup.

50. Ajo Blanco

Cold garlic soup in a small clear glass garnished with bright green sauce.
Is ajo blanco Spain’s unique chilly soup?

Ajo blanco might be probably the most distinctive Spanish chilly soup, consisting of garlic, blended almonds, stale bread, olive oil, and vinegar. Some say it is the precursor to extra well-known soups like gazpacho and salmorejo, which have been solely invented after Spain began importing tomatoes from the Americas.

Ajo Blanco Recipe (Chilled Almond Soup)

This straightforward and scrumptious ajo blanco recipe makes a basic Spanish soup that you just should strive!

Take a look at this recipe

ajo blanco recipe - cold Spanish soups

What to Drink With Tapas

There are virtually as many scrumptious Spanish drinks as there are tapas recipes! Relying on the dish (and your temper), you’ll be able to pair Spanish tapas with just about any beverage.

However in case you want some inspiration, I extremely counsel a glass of Spanish wine. Pair a pleasant Rioja with wealthy tapas like rabo de toro or carrillada. A crisp albariño or verdejo goes completely with seafood tapas like almejas or gambas al ajillo.

In Spain, the most typical factor to drink with tapas might be beer. Locals typically order a small glass, or caña, as an alternative of a full bottle or pint. There’s additionally the basic sangria—though in actuality you are more likely to seek out tinto de verano on Spanish bar menus.

A tall glass of dark pink tinto de verano with an orange slice on the rim.
Tinto de verano is a refreshing mixture of pink wine and lemon soda. Picture credit score: Giulia Verdinelli

In the event you’re feeling a bit extra adventurous, department out and check out distinctive Spanish drinks like sherry and different fortified wines.

On Sunday afternoons, it is particularly frequent to take pleasure in tapas with a glass of Spanish vermouth (my private favourite drink in Spain). And naturally, there are many non-alcoholic choices as nicely!

Spanish Tapas Recipes FAQs

Are tapas the identical as appetizers?

Nope. Though tapas may appear just like appetizers, they are not the identical factor. Tapas can actually be eaten in the beginning of a meal earlier than the principle course, however they can be a full meal all on their very own. They’re typically shared, permitting everybody on the desk to style a number of dishes—however you may also order one only for you!

Are tapas parts actually small?

Not essentially. You would possibly consider tapas as “small plates,” however their measurement can truly fluctuate drastically. A tapa might be something from a tiny skewer of olives and anchovies to a heaping plate of fried potatoes. Many Spanish tapas bars additionally supply totally different portion sizes, relying on how many individuals you are sharing with.

Are tapas wholesome?

In fact it is determined by the tapa—and your definition of “wholesome”—however many Spanish tapas are full of vitamins and recent produce. They are typically easy dishes made with high-quality merchandise, like regionally grown greens, olive oil, seafood, and nuts. Numerous tapas are additionally naturally plant-based!

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