Tapas
Tapas are Spain's appetizers and are eaten anytime of the day or night. These little dishes can make a meal on their own! Tapas are such a big part of the culture that there is even a verb tapear, which means "to eat tapas."
Top Garlic Tapa Recipes
Garlic, the "stinking rose" seems to make everything taste better, at least if you are a garlic lover! Garlic is one of the basic ingredients of the Mediterranean cuisines and adds so much flavor or "zip" to many dishes. This is a short list of the top garlic tapas of Spain.
Garlic, the "stinking rose" seems to make everything taste better, at least if you are a garlic lover! Garlic is one of the basic ingredients of the Mediterranean cuisines and adds so much flavor or "zip" to many dishes. This is a short list of the top garlic tapas of Spain.
Fried Anchovies Recipe - Anchoas Fritas
Fried anchovies or in Spanish "anchoas fritas" are a popular tapa in Spain because they are so tasty. Fried anchovies are especially popular in the north of Spain in the Basque Country or "Pais Vasco."
Fried anchovies or in Spanish "anchoas fritas" are a popular tapa in Spain because they are so tasty. Fried anchovies are especially popular in the north of Spain in the Basque Country or "Pais Vasco."
White Beans with Vinaigrette Sauce Recipe – Alubias con Salsa Vinagreta
White Beans with Vinaigrette Sauce, "Alubias con Salsa Vinagreta" in Spanish is a simple and quick Spanish "tapa," especially good in the summertime. White beans are simply combined with onion, pepper, oil and vinegar. Serve in a bowl with some crusty bread. Double the recipe and serve as a first course salad for four.
White Beans with Vinaigrette Sauce, "Alubias con Salsa Vinagreta" in Spanish is a simple and quick Spanish "tapa," especially good in the summertime. White beans are simply combined with onion, pepper, oil and vinegar. Serve in a bowl with some crusty bread. Double the recipe and serve as a first course salad for four.
Fried Almonds Recipe - Almendras Fritas
There are thousands of different "tapas" in Spain - both hot and cold. Fried almonds or "almendras fritas" can be eaten warm just after frying or at room temperature. They are a tasty treat, with just a bit of salt.
There are thousands of different "tapas" in Spain - both hot and cold. Fried almonds or "almendras fritas" can be eaten warm just after frying or at room temperature. They are a tasty treat, with just a bit of salt.
Shrimp-Stuffed Roasted Peppers - Pimientos de Piquillo Rellenos de Gambas
Roasted Piquillo peppers are the perfect size to stuff and make a great "tapa" or a cold first course. This recipe is a good appetizer for warmer months and is ready in less than 15 minutes. Shrimp,cucumber, green onion and "pink" sauce make the stuffing, with a bit of paprika and Tabasco sauce to liven things up.
Roasted Piquillo peppers are the perfect size to stuff and make a great "tapa" or a cold first course. This recipe is a good appetizer for warmer months and is ready in less than 15 minutes. Shrimp,cucumber, green onion and "pink" sauce make the stuffing, with a bit of paprika and Tabasco sauce to liven things up.
Last Minute Tapas
Are you in a hurry to get to a party? Or, unexpected out-of-town guests dropped in and you need something to serve? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Try any of these Spanish tapas that you can prepare at the last minute – just two involve any cooking!
Are you in a hurry to get to a party? Or, unexpected out-of-town guests dropped in and you need something to serve? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Try any of these Spanish tapas that you can prepare at the last minute – just two involve any cooking!
Alioli - Garlic Mayonnaise
Alioli, a popular Spanish sauce, often served with meats and fish, vegetables or tapas. It is an emulsion sauce traditionally made with garlic and olive oil, eggs are usually added to it to make it more stable and easier to whip.
Alioli, a popular Spanish sauce, often served with meats and fish, vegetables or tapas. It is an emulsion sauce traditionally made with garlic and olive oil, eggs are usually added to it to make it more stable and easier to whip.
Almejas a la Murciana - Murcian Style Clams
If you can buy fresh clams at the market, this is a simple recipe for Clams Murcian Style. They are bathed in a colorful and tasty sauce made of white wine, garlic and onions that has a slight bite from the red pepper flakes. Fresh crusty bread is a must to soak up the sauce! It can be eaten as an appetizer or a first course.
If you can buy fresh clams at the market, this is a simple recipe for Clams Murcian Style. They are bathed in a colorful and tasty sauce made of white wine, garlic and onions that has a slight bite from the red pepper flakes. Fresh crusty bread is a must to soak up the sauce! It can be eaten as an appetizer or a first course.
Almejas a la Pescadora - Clams a la Pescadora
Clams a la Pescadora is an easy tapas recipe. Fresh clams cooked in a smooth sauce made of garlic, white wine and lemon. Served very hot with a fresh baguette to soak up the sauce, it makes a great appetizer anytime, especially in winter.
Clams a la Pescadora is an easy tapas recipe. Fresh clams cooked in a smooth sauce made of garlic, white wine and lemon. Served very hot with a fresh baguette to soak up the sauce, it makes a great appetizer anytime, especially in winter.
Bacalao con Pueros Caramelizados y Naranja-Cod with Caramelized Leek and Orange
This modern "tapa" is colorful and flavorful. The salty flavor of the cod combines with the sweet and sour flavor of the caramelized leek and vinegar to create a unique and tasty appetizer. Like so many “tapas,” it is easy to make, but the salt cod must soak in water the night before you prepare it.
This modern "tapa" is colorful and flavorful. The salty flavor of the cod combines with the sweet and sour flavor of the caramelized leek and vinegar to create a unique and tasty appetizer. Like so many “tapas,” it is easy to make, but the salt cod must soak in water the night before you prepare it.
Banderillas
"Banderillas" are one of the most typical "tapas" you will see in Spain. They are colorful and tasty with a glass of wine or sherry. If you do not have time or inclination to cook, but would like to prepare an easy Spanish "tapa", "banderillas" are for you!
"Banderillas" are one of the most typical "tapas" you will see in Spain. They are colorful and tasty with a glass of wine or sherry. If you do not have time or inclination to cook, but would like to prepare an easy Spanish "tapa", "banderillas" are for you!
Berenjena con Pollo y Pimientos - Eggplant with Chicken and Peppers
Eggplant, a typical ingredient of the Mediterranean diet is the base of this “tapa.” Slices of boneless chicken breast with roasted red pepper and tomato sauce are then added to the eggplant. Finally, melted cheese tops off these “montaditos.”
Eggplant, a typical ingredient of the Mediterranean diet is the base of this “tapa.” Slices of boneless chicken breast with roasted red pepper and tomato sauce are then added to the eggplant. Finally, melted cheese tops off these “montaditos.”
Berenjena con Vinagreta de Tomate - Grilled Eggplant in Vinaigrette
This is a great dish to serve as a tapa or a side dish, especially in spring and summer. Even folks who say that they do not like eggplant OR tomatoes have tasted this dish and been hooked! Try serving it as an appetizer or side dish.
This is a great dish to serve as a tapa or a side dish, especially in spring and summer. Even folks who say that they do not like eggplant OR tomatoes have tasted this dish and been hooked! Try serving it as an appetizer or side dish.
Bolas de Bacalao Frito - Recipe for Fried Cod Fish Balls
These little fish balls are absolutely delicious! Salt-dried cod is mixed with green onion, garlic, lemon and egg, covered in breadcrumbs and fried. Serve with "alioli" sauce (garlic mayonnaise) and/or "sofrito" (tomato sauce) for a tasty appetizer.
These little fish balls are absolutely delicious! Salt-dried cod is mixed with green onion, garlic, lemon and egg, covered in breadcrumbs and fried. Serve with "alioli" sauce (garlic mayonnaise) and/or "sofrito" (tomato sauce) for a tasty appetizer.
Calamares Fritos - Fried Squid
You probably know this famous and very popular Spanish "tapa" by the Italian name "Calamari." In any language, fried squid is a wonderful appetizer and guaranteed to disappear as fast as you put out a plate!
You probably know this famous and very popular Spanish "tapa" by the Italian name "Calamari." In any language, fried squid is a wonderful appetizer and guaranteed to disappear as fast as you put out a plate!
Cangrejos de Rio con Tomate - Crayfish in Tomato Sauce
Crayfish are called "cangrejos de rio" in Spanish - literally “river crabs." Crayfish are a popular Spanish food, a fresh-water cousin to the lobster, although smaller. The following is our family recipe for crayfish cooked in a simple sauce of tomato, garlic and white wine. Be sure to serve fresh French-style bread to soak up the tasty sauce.
Crayfish are called "cangrejos de rio" in Spanish - literally “river crabs." Crayfish are a popular Spanish food, a fresh-water cousin to the lobster, although smaller. The following is our family recipe for crayfish cooked in a simple sauce of tomato, garlic and white wine. Be sure to serve fresh French-style bread to soak up the tasty sauce.
Cojonudos and Cojonudas – Fried Quail Eggs with Chorizo or Morcilla
“Cojonudos” are another simple, but tasty “tapa” made by topping a slice of baguette with a fried quail egg and a slice of fried chorizo sausage. “Cojonudos” loosely translated means “awesome” and judging by their popularity in tapas bars Burgos, they must be! Their “sister tapa” is the “cojonuda,” made with a small slice of morcilla (blood sausage) instead of chorizo sausage.
“Cojonudos” are another simple, but tasty “tapa” made by topping a slice of baguette with a fried quail egg and a slice of fried chorizo sausage. “Cojonudos” loosely translated means “awesome” and judging by their popularity in tapas bars Burgos, they must be! Their “sister tapa” is the “cojonuda,” made with a small slice of morcilla (blood sausage) instead of chorizo sausage.
Croquetas de Jamón – Ham Croquettes
"Croquetas" - croquettes are small, lightly breaded and fried sort of fritter. They are a sure hit as an appetizer or an afternoon snack with a glass of beer or wine. They are creamy and smooth and very tasty. The best part is you can make the dough ahead of time and freeze it. Then, take the croquetas out of the freezer and pop them into the frying pan.
"Croquetas" - croquettes are small, lightly breaded and fried sort of fritter. They are a sure hit as an appetizer or an afternoon snack with a glass of beer or wine. They are creamy and smooth and very tasty. The best part is you can make the dough ahead of time and freeze it. Then, take the croquetas out of the freezer and pop them into the frying pan.
Empanadas Gallegas - Galician Turnovers
"Empanadas" are turnovers originally from Galicia, a northwestern province in Spain. "Emapanadas Gallegas" or Galician Turnovers are very popular and have spread to every region in Spain, all over Latin America and beyond. The smaller version called "empanadillas" are also a practical snack for those who find themselves away from home. They make great snacks to take cycling, hiking or backpacking!
"Empanadas" are turnovers originally from Galicia, a northwestern province in Spain. "Emapanadas Gallegas" or Galician Turnovers are very popular and have spread to every region in Spain, all over Latin America and beyond. The smaller version called "empanadillas" are also a practical snack for those who find themselves away from home. They make great snacks to take cycling, hiking or backpacking!
Gambas al Ajillo – Shrimp in Garlic
One of the most common "tapas" of Spain, this dish is quick, easy and FULL of garlic flavor. Your guests will be asking for the recipe after the first bite and only you will know how simple it was to prepare.
One of the most common "tapas" of Spain, this dish is quick, easy and FULL of garlic flavor. Your guests will be asking for the recipe after the first bite and only you will know how simple it was to prepare.
Gambas con Setas, Ajo y Vino Blanco - Shrimp with Mushrooms, Garlic and Wine
“Setas” or mushrooms are very popular in Spain. Many people drive or walk out to the countryside to pick them. The Fall is a great time for mushrooms and this dish is easy and quite delicious as a “tapa.” Serve with slices of baguette.
“Setas” or mushrooms are very popular in Spain. Many people drive or walk out to the countryside to pick them. The Fall is a great time for mushrooms and this dish is easy and quite delicious as a “tapa.” Serve with slices of baguette.
How to Make Tortilla Espanola - Spanish Omelet Recipe
"Tortilla Espanola" or Spanish omelet is the most commonly served dish or tapa in Spain. Try making this tasty dish following our step-by-step with photos.
"Tortilla Espanola" or Spanish omelet is the most commonly served dish or tapa in Spain. Try making this tasty dish following our step-by-step with photos.
Huevos Rellenos de Atun - Deviled Eggs with Tuna
"Huevos rellenos" or Deviled Eggs are as popular in Spain as they are in the USA. Made with the standard yolks and topped with mayonnaise, they are stuffed with tuna and tomato sauce! This is an easy-to-make "tapa" that has a surprisingly unique flavor that everyone will love.
"Huevos rellenos" or Deviled Eggs are as popular in Spain as they are in the USA. Made with the standard yolks and topped with mayonnaise, they are stuffed with tuna and tomato sauce! This is an easy-to-make "tapa" that has a surprisingly unique flavor that everyone will love.
Huevos Rellenos de Gambas - Deviled Eggs with Shrimp
"Huevos rellenos" or Deviled Eggs are popular in Spain. Made with the standard yolks and mayonnaise, they contain a twist - finely-chopped shrimp! These easy-to-make deviled eggs are a wonderful appetizer or "tapa" that everyone will marvel over. Don't be surprised if you are asked for the recipe!
"Huevos rellenos" or Deviled Eggs are popular in Spain. Made with the standard yolks and mayonnaise, they contain a twist - finely-chopped shrimp! These easy-to-make deviled eggs are a wonderful appetizer or "tapa" that everyone will marvel over. Don't be surprised if you are asked for the recipe!
Jamón, Queso y Chorizo con Pan - Ham, Cheese and Chorizo with Bread
This is a simple, but delicious appetizer or "tapa" that everyone enjoys. It involves very little cooking and you can put it together at the last minute! What could be better than Spanish ham, Manchego cheese and sausage on a baguette?
This is a simple, but delicious appetizer or "tapa" that everyone enjoys. It involves very little cooking and you can put it together at the last minute! What could be better than Spanish ham, Manchego cheese and sausage on a baguette?
Langostinos Cocidos - Boiled Prawns
"Langostinos" are a very large shrimp or prawns that are often simply boiled whole and chilled. They are then served by themselves on a plate or with "salsa rosa" or in a vinaigrette sauce.
"Langostinos" are a very large shrimp or prawns that are often simply boiled whole and chilled. They are then served by themselves on a plate or with "salsa rosa" or in a vinaigrette sauce.
Mejillones en Vinagreta de Tomate - Mussels in Tomato Vinaigrette
"Mejillones" or mussels are a very popular "tapa" in Spain and are prepared many different ways. This recipe is simple and refreshing. It can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to serve.
"Mejillones" or mussels are a very popular "tapa" in Spain and are prepared many different ways. This recipe is simple and refreshing. It can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to serve.
Mejillones Rellenos - "Tigres" - Stuffed Mussels
If you have ever been to Spain, you’ve most likely tasted “tigres,” mussels that have been stuffed, breaded and fried. Although you may see them in "tapa" bars in Madrid and other cities, they are a very popular “tapa” in Northern Spain. A mouth-watering appetizer, many visitors yearn to eat "tigres" when they return home. Learn how to prepare the “tigres” with our step-by-step recipe.
If you have ever been to Spain, you’ve most likely tasted “tigres,” mussels that have been stuffed, breaded and fried. Although you may see them in "tapa" bars in Madrid and other cities, they are a very popular “tapa” in Northern Spain. A mouth-watering appetizer, many visitors yearn to eat "tigres" when they return home. Learn how to prepare the “tigres” with our step-by-step recipe.
Olives a la Madrilene – Aceitunas a la Madrileña
Olives a la Madrilene or in Spanish, "Aceitunas a la Madrileña" is served in Spain as a tapa or to accompany a meal. We like to enjoy this dish with a fresh baguette to soak up the dressing. It can be served year-round, but is especially enjoyable in the summer.
Olives a la Madrilene or in Spanish, "Aceitunas a la Madrileña" is served in Spain as a tapa or to accompany a meal. We like to enjoy this dish with a fresh baguette to soak up the dressing. It can be served year-round, but is especially enjoyable in the summer.
Patatas Alioli - Alioli Potatoes
Try this recipe for patatas alioli, a very popular Spanish tapa. Who can resist warm, lightly fried chunks of potatoes covered in a creamy garlic mayonaise sauce?
Try this recipe for patatas alioli, a very popular Spanish tapa. Who can resist warm, lightly fried chunks of potatoes covered in a creamy garlic mayonaise sauce?
Patatas Bravas - Bravas Potatoes
Patatas Bravas or Bravas Potatoes is one of the classic Spanish tapas dishes and is served in bars all over Spain. It has a slight bite to the sauce and keeps you dipping your potatoes for more. The best thing is that it is a simple recipe.
Patatas Bravas or Bravas Potatoes is one of the classic Spanish tapas dishes and is served in bars all over Spain. It has a slight bite to the sauce and keeps you dipping your potatoes for more. The best thing is that it is a simple recipe.
Picadillo - Spicey Spanish Pork
Cubes of pork are marinated overnight in a spicy mixture of paprika, garlic and white wine. Then the pork is quickly stir-fried and served with bread and/or fried potatoes. This is a very easy recipe.
Cubes of pork are marinated overnight in a spicy mixture of paprika, garlic and white wine. Then the pork is quickly stir-fried and served with bread and/or fried potatoes. This is a very easy recipe.
Pimientos Rellenos de Atun - Red Peppers Stuffed with Tuna
Light, easy and no cooking involved in this "tapa"! A great dish for the summer or anytime you want to prepare an appetizer quickly. Tuna mixed with a bit of green onion and olives, then stuff into roasted red peppers.
Light, easy and no cooking involved in this "tapa"! A great dish for the summer or anytime you want to prepare an appetizer quickly. Tuna mixed with a bit of green onion and olives, then stuff into roasted red peppers.
Pimientos Rellenos de Bacalao - Recipe for Piquillo Peppers Stuffed with Cod
A superb "tapa" from the North of Spain, it is very popular. Sweet and tasty roasted piquillo peppers stuffed with a mixture of salt cod, white wine, onions and garlic. Dipped in egg and flour, then lightly fried and covered in a tomato sauce. It is worth the hour that it takes to prepare this "tapa"!
A superb "tapa" from the North of Spain, it is very popular. Sweet and tasty roasted piquillo peppers stuffed with a mixture of salt cod, white wine, onions and garlic. Dipped in egg and flour, then lightly fried and covered in a tomato sauce. It is worth the hour that it takes to prepare this "tapa"!
Pimientos Rojos con Anchoas - Red Peppers with Anchovies
Looking for a quick and tasty "tapa?" Try Roasted red peppers with garlic and anchovies. It is both colorful and flavorful and won't disappoint!
Looking for a quick and tasty "tapa?" Try Roasted red peppers with garlic and anchovies. It is both colorful and flavorful and won't disappoint!
Pinchos Morunos - Pork Kabobs
Pinchos Morunos are delicious pork kabobs that have been marinated for a day. These are a very popular "tapa" that are served in many bars all of Spain. Pinchos Morunos are easy to make and great for beginner Spanish cooks!
Pinchos Morunos are delicious pork kabobs that have been marinated for a day. These are a very popular "tapa" that are served in many bars all of Spain. Pinchos Morunos are easy to make and great for beginner Spanish cooks!
Potaje de Garbanzos y Espinacas - Garbanzo and Spinach Soup
This soup from New Castilla/Madrid region is full of flavor and like our American “chile,” it seems to get even better when eaten the following day! It is a hearty soup that is wonderful in winter. If you are planning a "tapa" party, it also works well served in small bowls as one of the main "tapas" of the evening.
This soup from New Castilla/Madrid region is full of flavor and like our American “chile,” it seems to get even better when eaten the following day! It is a hearty soup that is wonderful in winter. If you are planning a "tapa" party, it also works well served in small bowls as one of the main "tapas" of the evening.
Pulpo Gallego - Galician Style Octopus
"Pulpo Gallego" or Galician-Style Octopus is a "tapa" or appetizer served all over Spain today. It is very simple - cooked octopus served with boiled potatoes, olive oil and sweet Spanish paprika.
"Pulpo Gallego" or Galician-Style Octopus is a "tapa" or appetizer served all over Spain today. It is very simple - cooked octopus served with boiled potatoes, olive oil and sweet Spanish paprika.
Salmon Ahumado con Queso Blando – Smoked Salmon with Cream Cheese
This is a delicious "tapa" or appetizer that you can serve along with a Spanish omelet, chorizo sausage or alone as an afternoon snack.
This is a delicious "tapa" or appetizer that you can serve along with a Spanish omelet, chorizo sausage or alone as an afternoon snack.
Setas con Ajo y Vino Blanco - Mushrooms with Garlic and White Wine
“Setas” or mushrooms are very popular in Spain. Many people drive or walk out to the countryside and spend the day picking them, especially after an autumn rain. The Fall is a great time for mushrooms and this dish is easy and quite delicious served with bread as a “tapa,” as an accompaniment to a beef, lamb or pork roast, steak or chops.
“Setas” or mushrooms are very popular in Spain. Many people drive or walk out to the countryside and spend the day picking them, especially after an autumn rain. The Fall is a great time for mushrooms and this dish is easy and quite delicious served with bread as a “tapa,” as an accompaniment to a beef, lamb or pork roast, steak or chops.
Summer Tapas Party Menu - Cold Spanish Tapas
Entertaining in the summer often means firing up the BBQ, creating more heat and filling the patio with smoke. Why not treat your guests to a buffet of cold "tapas" and salads? All of the dishes listed below can be made ahead of time and kept chilled until ready to serve, including the light desserts.
Entertaining in the summer often means firing up the BBQ, creating more heat and filling the patio with smoke. Why not treat your guests to a buffet of cold "tapas" and salads? All of the dishes listed below can be made ahead of time and kept chilled until ready to serve, including the light desserts.
Tapas Party Menu
Everyone throws cocktail parties or dinner parties. So, why not throw a different kind of party – a Spanish Tapas Party?! Learn how to make 5 easy tapas recipes to impress your friends.
Everyone throws cocktail parties or dinner parties. So, why not throw a different kind of party – a Spanish Tapas Party?! Learn how to make 5 easy tapas recipes to impress your friends.
Tomato Bread - Pan con Tomate
Tomato Bread is simply toasted bread rubbed with fresh garlic and ripe tomato, then drizzled with olive oil and a bit of salt. It can be eaten by itself, but is often topped with cheese, ham or sausage. What a great snack or appetizer!
Tomato Bread is simply toasted bread rubbed with fresh garlic and ripe tomato, then drizzled with olive oil and a bit of salt. It can be eaten by itself, but is often topped with cheese, ham or sausage. What a great snack or appetizer!
Tomato Bread Recipe – How to Make Pan Con Tomate
Tomato Bread is simply toasted bread rubbed with fresh garlic and ripe tomato, then drizzled with olive oil and a bit of salt. It can be eaten by itself, but is often topped with cheese, ham or sausage.
Tomato Bread is simply toasted bread rubbed with fresh garlic and ripe tomato, then drizzled with olive oil and a bit of salt. It can be eaten by itself, but is often topped with cheese, ham or sausage.
Top Spanish Tapas
What are the top Spanish "tapas" recipes?! Learn what our top recipe picks are and compare our picks to yours!
What are the top Spanish "tapas" recipes?! Learn what our top recipe picks are and compare our picks to yours!
Tortilla Espanola - Spanish Omelet
La Tortilla Espanola - the Spanish Omelet. It is the best-loved and most popular dish in Spain, served at home and in cafes and bars. It can be eaten for dinner or as a tapa. With only 4 essential ingredients, it is not a difficult dish to make.
La Tortilla Espanola - the Spanish Omelet. It is the best-loved and most popular dish in Spain, served at home and in cafes and bars. It can be eaten for dinner or as a tapa. With only 4 essential ingredients, it is not a difficult dish to make.