Spanish Food: Most Popular Articles

Spanish Food - Recipes
An index of Recipes for the Spanish Food guide site.

Spanish Meals
It seems like Spaniards are always eating! Meals and the socializing that happens while eating are a huge part of the Spanish culture. Learn how a typical Spaniard eats and when - You'll be surprised!

Spanish Menu Ordering
Whether it is a Spanish restaurant in Spain or in your neighborhood, you’ll need to learn to order from the menu, or as it is commonly called "la carta." How? Start by reading our course-by-course guide to ordering!

What are Tapas?
[i]Tapas[/i] are snacks, canapés or finger food. [i]Tapas[/i] come in many different forms and can vary from town to town! But, [i]what are they?[/i] Read on and find out.

Tortilla - Spanish Omelet
"La Tortilla Española" - The Spanish Omelet is also called "Tortilla de Patata" or Potato Omelet. It is the best-loved and most popular dish in Spain, served at home and in cafés 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.

Tortilla Espanola Step-by-Step
"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.

Introduction to Spanish Food
Spanish food is "down to earth" and uncomplicated, based on simple, locally available ingredients. Learn about typical Spanish food and ingredients.

Tapas Party Menu
Everyone throws cocktail parties or dinner parties. So, why not throw a different kind of party – a Spanish [i]Tapas[/i] Party?! Learn how to make 5 easy tapas recipes to impress your friends.

Magdalenas
”Magdalenas” are small sweet cakes that are rich-tasting, but light and fluffy. The Spanish everywhere have them for breakfast with a big "café con leche," although they are said to have originated in Aragón. Try them for breakfast, brunch, snack or a light dessert with coffee.

Bread Pudding - Torrijas
Once you´ve tried "torrijas," you'll be hooked! Madrilenos love this Spanish version of bread pudding. Take day-old French or white bread and dip in milk, then eggs and fry in a frying pan. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar or coat with honey. The Spanish eat "torrijas" for breakfast or as a sweet treat at Easter.

Flan - Custard with Sauce
[i]Flan[/i] is a vanilla egg custard, topped with caramel sauce. It is one of the most popular desserts, served everywhere in Spain. [i]Flan[/i] is a great finish to a scrumptious meal because even though it is sweet and flavorful, it is a very light dessert. Learn how easy it is to make!

Spanish Breakfast Foods
Spanish eat a large midday meal, but start the day off with a simple morning meal. Learn how to eat like a Spaniard starting from the moment you arise.

How to Make Paella
When rice is cooked, remove from heat and cover with aluminum foil, allowing paella to “rest” for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.[/p]

What is Spanish chorizo?
[i]Chorizo[/i] is a sausage that has many different varieties and is eaten all over Spain, made with pork meat and paprika.

Churros
"Churros" are simple fried pastries that look something like a big “French fry,” but taste nothing like one, of course. Fresh dough is squeezed through a pastry bag right into vats of hot oil. Once removed, they are cut into lengths and quickly sprinkled with sugar or drizzled with honey and eaten hot.

Quick and Easy Apple Tart
A very popular Spanish dish, especially in Northern Spain is "Tarta de Manzana" - Quick and Easy Apple Tart. Our version uses prepared puff pastry for crust, fresh tart green apples, and is topped with sweet and luscious apricot preserves to create a golden glaze and seal the apples.

Spanish Tapas-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.

Mantecados - Crumble Cakes
As their name suggests, these traditional Spanish crumble cakes or "mantecados" crumble very easily. In fact, they are so soft, they will literally melt in your mouth. Light and full of flavor, words will not do them justice. You'll have to make them to see why they are a Spanish favorite and why no Spanish home is without "mantecados" at Christmas!

Polvorones - Almond Cookies
Rich and crumbly these traditional "polvorones" (Almond Cookies) are a delicious cookie, especially popular at during the Christmas season. They are very rich and practically melt in your mouth!

Top Spanish Tapas
What are the top Spanish "tapas" recipes?! Learn what our top recipe picks are and compare our picks to yours!

Gazpacho - Cold Tomato Soup
[i]Gazpacho[/i] is a wonderful way to cool off and to start a meal on a hot summer day. Although we translate the word [i]gazpacho[/i] into English as “tomato soup,” it is nothing like hot tomato soup. It is very refreshing, flavorful, stimulates the palette AND very easy to prepare. You need only a knife to chop and a blender to mix!

Spanish Lunch - La Comida
The midday meal, "la comida" as it is called in Spain is the largest meal of the day. It is definitely a large meal, usually with multiple courses. Learn about what dishes Spaniards eat. It's guaranteed to make your mouth water.

Spanish Christmas Sweets
Christmas time in Spain is heaven for those of you with a sweet tooth! Learn to prepare these Spanish Christmas desserts, found in almost every household: [link url=http://spanishfood.about.com/od/dessertssweets/a/turron.htm][i]turrón[/i][/link], [link url=http://spanishfood.about.com/od/dessertssweets/r/polvoronesv2.htm][i]polvorones[/i][/link], [i]mazapan[/i] and [link url=http://spanishfood.about.com/od/dessertssweets/r/mantecados.htm][i]mantecados[/i][/link]. You’re sure to have a [i]¡Felíz Navidad![/i]

Paella - An Introduction
Paella is currently an internationally known rice dish from Spain. It originated in the fields of a region called Valencia in eastern Spain. Today [i]paella[/i] is made in every region of Spain, using just about any kind of ingredient that goes well with rice. There are as many versions of [i]paella[/i] as there are cooks. Learn how to prepare [i]paella[/i] three different ways.

Flan de Naranja - Orange Flan
Orange flan is a variation of the traditional Spanish flan, a vanilla custard topped with caramel sauce. This variation is lighter, but has an intense orange flavor that refreshes the palate as well as satisfying a sweet tooth. It is a simple custard recipe that can be made ahead of time and makes an elegant finish to any dinner or celebration, including Mother’s Day.

How to Make Torrijas
Once you´ve tried "torrijas," you'll be hooked! Thickly sliced bread dipped in milk and egg and browned. Top it off with cinnamon and sugar or drizzle with honey. The Spanish eat it for breakfast or as a sweet treat at Easter. No matter when you eat it or exactly how you prepare it, you MUST try our easy step-by-step!

Crema Catalana Recipe
"Crema Catalana" or Catalan Cream is the Spanish version of the very creamy and delicate French dessert, "crème brulée." It is also called "Crema de Sant Josep," or St. Joseph’s cream and is traditionally prepared on March 19th, St. Joseph’s Day. St. Joseph’s Day is the Spanish equivalent of Father’s Day in the USA. Try this EASY Spanish dessert recipe!

Patatas Bravas-Bravas Potatoes
[i]Patatas Bravas[/i] 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.

Salmon in Green Sauce
Green sauce, or “salsa verde” is a typical Spanish sauce and is usually served with fish. In this case, the sauce also includes green peppers, which gives it a beautiful green color. The salmon is sautéed in olive oil-flavored garlic and the sauce is prepared separately. It is a healthy and quick dish, perfect for a light spring or summer dinner.

Arroz con Leche
Rice pudding is a typical dish served in households all over Spain. It is rich and sweet with a touch of lemon flavor. It is a very easy recipe and can be served warm or cold.

Empanadas Gallegas
"Empanadas" are turnovers originally from Galicia, a northwestern province in Spain. "Emapanadas Gallegas" or in English, Galician Turnovers are very popular and have spread to every region in Spain, all over Latin America and beyond. They are delicious and owe their popularity to tasty fillings. The smaller version called "empanadillas" are also a very practical snack for those who find themselves away from home. They make great snacks to take cycling, hiking or backpacking!

Tarta de Santiago
Santiago (St. James) is the patron saint of Spain and this delicious almond cake is named in his honor. The cake’s origin is not certain, but it may have been brought to Galicia by a pilgrim. Today, this cake is sold all over Santiago de Compostela and is popular with tourists and pilgrims.

Spanish Hot Chocolate
The Spanish are known to be "locos" for chocolate, since they “discovered” it in the New World 500 years ago. As in centuries past, today the Spanish drink rich, thick hot chocolate for breakfast. In fact, it is so thick that you can stand a "churro" in it!

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.

Flan de Fresas - Strawberry
This rich dessert is a variation of the traditional Spanish dessert called "Flan." Instead of vanilla, this flan is flavored with fresh strawberries.

Alioli - Garlic Mayonnaise
[i]Alioli[/i], 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.

Cava - Spanish Sparkling Wine
Spain makes some very fine sparkling wines called [i]cava.[/i] It is made in the "méthode champenoise" or “Champagne method,” which is the same method that is used to make Champagne in France. Learn about how it is produced and which type to buy, depending on your taste!

Paella Valenciana
There are as many versions of [i]paella[/i] as there are cooks in Spain! [i]Paella Valenciana[/i] is the traditional version of Valencia’s signature rice dish with rabbit, chicken and snails. Learn how to prepare this delicious Spanish rice dish.

Crispy Polvorones
Rich, crumbly "polvorones" or Almond Cookies are a delicious cookie, especially popular at during the Christmas season.

Ensalada Tropical
Ensalada tropical is a refreshing and flavorful alternative to green salads in the summer. The mix of tropical fruit, software cheese and fish is unusual and gives a unique flavor to the dish.

Sangria
Sangria is a great party drink for the summer – It’s easy to make, inexpensive and very refreshing. It is made primary of red wine, lemon-lime soda, fresh fruit and lots and lots of ice!

Spanish Mediterranean Diet
The Spanish eat a Mediterranean diet that contains plentiful amounts of fruits and vegetables, as well as fresh fish, and their main source of fat is olive oil, rich in monounsaturated fat. Learn more about the Mediterranean diet and why it is not only good tasting, but why researchers believe it is good for your health!

national dish of Spain
Does Spain have a national dish or dishes? Which tasty dish is it?

Bizcochos Borrachos
Light spongy cake, drizzled with a sweet sauce of brandy, lemon and cinnamon. It is a wonderful light dessert to complete a Spanish dinner. These "bizcochos" are the perfect accompaniment to a hot cup of Spanish coffee or hot chocolate on a cold morning or for afternoon tea.

Spanish Christmas Menu
In Spanish, Christmas Eve is called [i]La Noche Buena[/i] or “The Good Night” and in Spain it is celebrated with a large family feast that is eaten late in the evening and can last a couple hours. Follow our menu to prepare your own Spanish Feast this Christmas.

Ensalada de Naranja y Aguacate
This salad is easy to prepare, colorful and delicious. Brightly-colored sweet oranges, creamy green avocados, red onions and black olives make a “fiesta” on your plate. Because of the citric acid in the oranges, it is a good palate cleanser, too. So, you instead of serving it before the main course, you might try serving it at the end of a dinner, as dessert or just before dessert.

Arroz con Pollo
A standard main course in homes across Spain... and Latin America for that matter. It is so popular because it is so tasty! There are many different versions, so this recipe is a basic version to start with.

Essential Foods Spanish Food
Do you "have" what it takes to be a Spanish cook? We bet you have most of the ingredients already. Check this list against the your kitchen pantry and find out!

Summer Tapas Menu
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.

How to Make Crema Catalana
"Crema Catalana" or Catalan Cream is the Spanish version of the very creamy and delicate French dessert, [i]crème brulée[/i]. It is a very appropriate dessert for Spring, since it is also called [i]Crema de Sant Josep[/i], or St. Joseph’s cream and is traditionally prepared on March 19th, St. Joseph’s Day. St. Joseph’s Day is the Spanish equivalent of Father’s Day in the USA. Try this creamy Spanish dessert recipe!

Mixed Green Salad-Ensalada
Mixed Green Salad - Spanish Style! It includes cucumbers, peppers, olives and lots more.

Sofrito - Tomato Sauce
[p][i]Sofrito[/i] is a basic tomato sauce that is made all over Spain. Tomatoes, onions, garlic green peppers and olive oil are sautéed in a frying pan, so that the acid in the tomatoes mellows and mixes with the flavors of the onion, pepper and garlic. It can be eaten with rice or eggs, but often it is used as an ingredient in other dishes, such as the filling for [i]empanadas[/i].

Wine Ring Cookies
"Rosquillos de Vino" or Spanish wine cookies are made with wine, but what you'll really taste is the [b]anise[/b] flavoring! These cookies are great with a hot cup of tea or coffee, but the Spanish commonly eat them with a small glass of Anise liqueur.

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!

Ensaladilla Rusa
Spanish potato salad is very different than the typical American version, including its name - "ensaladilla rusa" or Russian Salad. It's a great variation to try the next time you have a BBQ.

Red Cabbage San Isidro Style
This red Cabbage recipe from Madrid is baked with apples, that give it a sweet taste, onions, potatoes and ham, which gives makes it salty, too. This is a good side dish to serve with a pork roast or sausage and some bread.

Banderillas
"Banderillas" are one of the most typical [i]tapas[/i] 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 [b]easy[/b] Spanish [i]tapa[/i], [i]banderillas[/i] are for you!

Desayuno
Spanish for "breakfast."

Roast Lamb
Tender suckling lamb roast is a favorite dish of the region of Castilla-Leon. Its is roast until crispy on the outside and so tender on the inside that it almost falls off the bone. It requires no special cooking utensils and is very, very easy.

Mother's Day Brunch Menu
Fresh seasonal ingredients of Spring make this menu perfect for a Mother’s Day brunch or a dinner party in May.

Macedonia de Fruta Tropical
In Spain, fresh fruit is commonly served for dessert. This recipe is a simple fruit salad, to which you may add a splash of rum or sparkling wine or liqueur.

Varieties of Sherry
Sherry, or "jerez" as the Spanish call it, is a unique and very popular type of wine. There is a Spanish Denomination of Origin to guarantee the quality and control of the wine and give you, the consumer guidance. There are a number of official classifications of sherry or "jerez," from very dry to sweet. Learn about the different kinds sherry.

Ensalada de Pepino
Spanish style Cucumber Salad is a perfect dish for a warm day. It is light, tasty and refreshing. If you need to prepare something at the last minute, this salad is great, since it is easy to prepare!

Cafe con Leche
Have you ever wondered how to prepare at home the same delicious espresso coffee you had in Spain (or other European countries) or what the Spanish eat with that wonderful coffee to start their day off right? We are asked that a lot!

Coca de Frutas de San Juan
The "Coca de Frutas de San Juan" is the traditional sweet prepared on the feast of St. John in June.

Sopa de Pollo con Fideos
This soup is a typical first course in Spanish households, regardless of the region. Spanish love soups and seem to eat them whether it is winter or summer. This soup is perfect for those cold winter evenings when you need something to warm you from the inside out. Luckily, it is an easy soup to make.

Stocking a Spanish Kitchen
Do you have the basic kitchen tools for Spanish cooking? Read this and find out!

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.

Spanish Seafood
If you have ever been to Spain, or had a friend from Spain, you know that Spaniards have a love affair with seafood. They crave fresh fish and shellfish of all kinds, from cod to lobster. Learn about the huge variety of seafood found in Spain.

Alioli Potatoes
Try this recipe for <i>patatas alioli</i>, a very popular Spanish tapa. Who can resist warm, lightly fried chunks of potatoes covered in a creamy garlic mayonaise sauce?

Spanish Chicken Stew
Try this flavorful chicken stew, typical of stews eaten in the region of Castilla, where the winters are chilly and food warms you from the inside out. Served with home-fried potatoes and warm, crusty French bread and a simple green salad for a filling, delicious meal.

Arroz al Horno
The region of Valencia is known for its many rice dishes, like [i]paella[/i], but there are so many other mouth-watering rice dishes to enjoy, like [i]arroz al horno[/i]. In the Valencian language, it is called [i]arros al forn[/i], and in English it can be called Oven-Baked Rice. The rice dish is traditionally baked in a ceramic dish and includes lean pork [i]morcilla[/i] sausage, lots of garlic, tomatoes, potatoes and garbanzo beans.

Cochinillo Asado - Roast Pig
[i]Cochinillo Asado[/i] or Roast Suckling Pig is one of the most typical dishes in the cuisine of Castilla. The city of Segovia is famous for this dish, where the pigs are roasted until the meat is so tender that it is cut with plates! [i]Cochinillo Asado[/i] is eaten everywhere - from the smallest village to the largest cities and practically has a cult following!

a la plancha
grilled on a metal plate.

What is paella?
[i]Paella[/i] is a rice dish from Spain that has become very popular and is now known around the world.

About Spain and its' Cuisine
Spain's cuisine varies from region to region, depending on the climate and cultures, as well as a little bit about the history. Read a bit about the location and climates of Spain and learn about the six culinary regions of Spain and what they are known for!

Intro to Morcilla
Morcilla is generally a thicker sausage, about 2 ½ to 3 inches across, stuffed with pig’s blood, rice, onions and spices. It is eaten as a "tapa" or put into stews.

Chorizo
Spanish [i]chorizo[/i], pork sausage seasoned with paprika and garlic that is eaten all over Spain. It comes in all shapes and sizes - fresh, soft, semi-cured and dry to name a few.

Green Salad
Simple and refreshing, a basic green salad dressed with extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar is all you need to complete most Spanish meals.

Pollo en Salsa - Chicken Sauce
This recipe is not complicated and can be made with a whole chicken cut into pieces, or with boneless, skinless pieces for a lower calorie option. The garlic, onion and white wine combine to make an absolutely delicious sauce – especially for dipping bread or drowning your rice.

Tinto de Verano
The name “Tinto de Verano” translates into English as “Red Wine of Summer.” It is a refreshing wine cocktail served in summer all over Spain. Although similar to sangria, it is easier to make and has less alcohol in it, making it the perfect to sip at a pool party or at the beach on a hot afternoon.

Patatas con Ajo y Perejil
“Patatas con Ajo y Perejil” is a simple side dish. Although it is a great vegetarian dish, it could also be served as a “tapa” along with a bit of “alioli” (a sort of garlic mayonnaise). If you like your dishes extra garlicky, add another clove! These “chips” are also a great addition to a Lenten fish meal.

Carne Gobernada
"Carne Gobernada" is a typical dish from Oviedo, capital of Asturias. It is a traditional main course, prepared by very slowly cooking the chunks of beef in onions and white wine until they are tender. Depending on the cut of beef, this might take as little as 40 minutes or as long as an hour, but the resulting dish is definitely worth the wait. Serve with fried potatoes to soak up the sauce.

Alubias con Arroz
Bean dishes are very common all over Spain and make great meals for the fall and winter seasons. Beans are low in fat and full of nutrients like calcium and potassium, not to mention fiber. This bean dish is a simple, flavorful dish that contains no meat. Eaten with rice, it makes an entire meal in a single bowl!

Madrilene Stew
Stews or [i]cocidos[/i], as they are called in Spanish are typical main dishes in Spain. They have lots of flavor and include meats, sausage and beans.

Berenjenas a la Mallorquina
Berenjenas a la Mallorquina or Mallorcan-Style Eggplant is a great side dish that includes ground pork, garic, onion and diced Serrano ham.

History of Chocolate
Chocolate is a delicacy from the New World that was brought back to Spain in the XVI century. Since then, the Spanish have had a love affair with chocolate and there is a long-established tradition of "chocolaterias" or cafes that only serve thick, rich, sweet chocolate with "churros" or Spanish fritters.

Pulpo Gallego - Galician Style
"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.

Chicken in Orange Sauce
This recipe originates in Valencia, a region well-known for its citrus. Chicken breasts are first browned in oil, then sauteed in a sauce that has intense citrus flavors. This is a simple recipe with lots of fresh taste.

Pork chops a la Madrilene
Learn to make this recipe for moist and juicy pork chops smothered in garlic, onions and olive oil. It is a simple and easy recipe that is sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Castilla-Leon Cuisine
Castilla-Leon, the largest area of Spain is known for its roast suckling lamb and pig, as well as hearty stews. Castilians also enjoy fish and seafood plates, and very traditional sweets with a religious past! Learn more about these dishes and more.

Roscon de Reyes
"Roscon de Reyes" is a traditional holiday dessert, served the night before or morning of “Reyes” or Epiphany, January 6th. It is a yeast dough sweet bread, decorated with candied fruit on top. It is tradition to hide a baby figurine wrapped in foil and a dry bean. You are the king of the party if you find the baby, and must pay for the cake if you find the bean.

Menestra de Verdura
“Menestra de verduras” is a wonderful dish, full of fresh vegetables and a bit of Serrano ham. The great thing about this dish is that you can use whatever vegetables are in season at the time. So, you might substitute spinach, swiss chard, asparagus, leek or faba beans.

Ensalada de Endibias con Fruta
This salad utilizes ingredients that are all in season during the winter in Spain. Belgian endives are a winter vegetable that make a great winter salad, combined with a light yogurt-based salad dressing. Top the leaves with oranges, dates and pomegranate seeds and you'll be looking for a second helping.

Introduction to Spanish Cheese
Cheese is a very important part of the Spanish diet. Every region has its own types and they range form creamy and soft, to hard and tangy. In Spain, cheeses are eaten by themselves, or with bread, as a [i]tapa[/i], or as dessert.

Vegetarian Paella
[p]Valencia is a region on the Mediterranean coast of Spain, between Barcelona and Murcia. There are as many versions of paella as there are cooks in Spain! [i]Paella Vegetariana[/i] is a vegetarian version of Valencia’s signature rice dish. Instead of chicken or seafood, vegetables fill in and create a tasty and satisfying vegetarian rice dish.[/p]

Cod Fish with Tomato Sauce
"Bacalao" is the Spanish word for Cod fish. This is a simply wonderful fish dish from Central and Northern Spain. Salty, dry cod is soaked in water to soften and release the extra salt. It is then fried, sauteed with tomato sauce and roasted red peppers.

Fish and Shellfish Soup
Spanish love fish and seafood and no wonder - Spain is surrounded by water on three sides! This soup combines fish, clams and shrimp with rice for a rich and flavorful dish.

Sopa de Ajo - Garlic Soup
Typical of the province of Castilla, this soup is a wonderful meal in itself! It is quick, easy to make and will warm you up right away. Like most Spanish recipes, you probably have the in ingredients in your kitchen and can prepare this when you have last-minute guests.

Albondigas con Salsa de Pereji
Meatballs in a simple, yet rich-tasting sauce made from beef broth, parsley and walnuts. What a great main course for any day of the week, regardless of the season! We recommend serving these delicious meatballs and sauce with home-fried potatoes or lots of crusty bread to soak up the sauce. These meatballs also make a good "tapa."

Regional Cuisine of Galicia
Galicia is located in the extreme Northwest of Spain and is known for its fish and seafood, as well as sauces and stews. Learn about the stews, "empanadas" and fish dishes of Galician cuisine.

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!

Quick and Easy Tapa
"Huevos rellenos" or Deviled Eggs are as popular in Spain as they are in the USA. 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!

Spanish Mother's Day Menu
Are you having mom over for Mother’s Day? Would you like to make a meal that she will remember? Or, maybe you are a mother and you would like your family to prepare a special meal for you?! Try these Spanish dishes for a fabulously tasty meal that is not difficult to make.

Chuletas de Cerdo con Ajo
A simple recipe, yet so delicious. Lean pork chops, sauteed with garlic, roasted red peppers and brandy. This dish is great as a main course anytime, but especially for winter dinners.

Merienda
Snack eaten in the afternoon, around "tea time."

Dia de los Santos Inocentes
There isn’t a holiday in Spain that doesn’t include eating tasty "tapas", feasting on an enormous meal, or munching delicious sweets and "Dia de los Santos Inocentes" is no exception.

Top Spanish Recipes for Begin
These are recipes we recommend to cooks new to Spanish cuisine. This list includes recipes for top dishes - Spanish food that is the most typical or representative of the Spanish kitchen, such as "tortilla espanola" or the most famous, such as "Paella."

Peras al Vino - Pears in Wine
This delicious dessert recipe originates from the "País Vasco" or Basque Country in Northern Spain. It is made with fresh pears and white wine and is an elegant ending for a dinner any time of year, but especially in the fall.

White Asparagus
White asparagus is very delicate in texture and flavor. Try this easy recipe and find out why Spaniards cannot resist this delicacy!

Membrillo - Quince Paste
"Membrillo" is a typical dessert eaten in Spain, although it is also served with toast at the breakfast table. "Membrillo" or "Dulce de Membrillo" is a sweet, very dense jelly made from the fruit of the quince tree. It is a great alternative to pastry or doughnuts for breakfast or dessert.

Spanish Sauces
In Spain, there is a wide variety of dishes. Every region or province has its own special dishes. Sometimes even individual towns have their own twist on regional dishes. Spanish sauces are no different. Most sauces originated in a particular region, but many have spread across the peninsula. Today there are over a half-dozen basic sauces broadly used in Spanish cooking, from [i]alioli[/i] to [i]vinagreta[/i].

Olives a la Madrilene
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.

What are tapas?
[i]Tapas[/i] are snacks, canapés or finger food. [i]Tapas[/i] come in many different forms and can vary from town to town! But, [i]what are they?[/i] Read on and find out.

Setas con Ajo y Vino Blanco
“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.

Panellets - Catalan Sweets
“Panellets” are a traditional sweet from Cataluña, prepared for “Dia de Todos los Santos” or All Saints Day and served with moscatel or “cava,” Spanish sparkling wine. Made from equal parts ground almonds and sugar and decorated with pine nuts or flavored with chocolate, coffee or candied fruit.

Membrillo con Queso
"Membrillo" is a typical dessert eaten in Spain, although it is also served with toast at the breakfast table. "Membrillo" or "Dulce de Membrillo" is a sweet, very dense jelly or paste made from the fruit of the quince tree. Try it with cheese for a light dessert or for breakfast.

Patatas a la Importancia
"Patatas a la Importancia" as the name implies are “potatoes of importance.” These are one rich, delicious potatoes! Potatoes are first coated in flour and egg and fried. Then, they are simmered in a rich sauce of onions, garlic and broth. Unforgettable!

Tortillas - Omelets in Spain
"Tortilla de Patatas or "Tortilla Espanola" is probably one of the best known and universally liked Spanish dishes. It is simply sliced potatoes and chopped onions fried in olive oil, then mixed with beaten egg and cooked to form a solid omelet. A tasty "tapa" or main course for dinner.

Spanish Easter Sunday Menu
If you are planning an Easter Day Menu, why not go Spanish?! This menu has a recipe for each course, from easy appetizers and fresh mixed green salad, to wonderful roast lamb and potatoes to delicious dessert of Catalan cream.

Salsa Rosa - Pink Sauce
In Spanish "Salsa rosa," or "pink sauce" in English is very good served with cold shellfish for a first course. This sauce is creamy and just slightly sweet, but with a bit of a bite from the Tabasco sauce.

Chirimoyas, Custard Apples
"Chirimoyas", cherimoyas or custard apples are a delicious tropical fruit, grown in Southern Spain. Their taste has been described as combination of banana, pineapple and strawberry. Find out what where to buy them and how to eat them!

Shrimp-Pomegranate-Avocado
This salad is not only eye-catching, but is great-tasting. The ruby red pomegranate seeds combine with the green lettuce and the yellow and green avocado, not to mention the pink shrimp. All the ingredients are grown in the Mediterranean and are in season in the Fall, making it a great choice for holiday dining.

Garbanzo and Spinach Soup
This soup 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.

Esparragos Gratinados - Aspara
Fresh green asparagus is lightly steamed, then wrapped in a paper-thin slice of Serrano ham and drizzled with bechamel sauce. Sprinkle with a bit of grated parmesan cheese. Bake until golden brown on top and you have a fresh, tasty and attractive side dish for spring.

Rape al Limon Recipe
[p]This quick and easy recipe originates in the region of Valencia, which is known for its high quality and abundant citrus fruit. Oranges and lemons are not only enjoyed as fresh fruit, but are used in cooking fish and meat dishes.[/p]

Frying with Spanish Olive Oil
Olive oil is an integral part of Spanish food and Spanish cooking. Almost every dish includes olive oil and/or garlic in the list of ingredients. Follow these general tips for frying with olive oil.

Deviled Eggs with Shrimp
"Huevos rellenos" or Deviled Eggs are as popular in Spain as they are in the USA. 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!

Eggplant in Tomato 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.

Picadillo - Spicy 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.

Pinchos Morunos
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!

Asturias Regional Cuisine
Asturias, a province in the northeastern corner of the Iberian Peninsula with a natural beauty and exquisite cuisine. Regional cuisine of Asturias includes fresh salmon, tasty "Fabada Asturiana" and rich "Cabrales" blue cheese, not to mention "sidra."

Sorbete de Vino Rioja
Sorbet is a perfect end to a delicious meal. This sorbet made from Spanish red wine, flavored with cinnamon and lemon is a delightful way to cleanse and excite the palette at the same time. It is also a simple, easy-to-prepare recipe that can be made and stored ahead of time. Serve this at your next dinner party. It’s sure to impress your guests!

Salpicon de Marisco
Quick, easy and tasty, this seafood salad is a perfect summer dish. Serve it as a light main course, a side dish or a tapa. Lightly dressed with vinegar and oil, fresh seafood, gherkin pickles, pepper and cocktail onions are refreshing and delicious.

Fabada Asturiana
"Fabada Asturiana" is a typical and very traditional dish from Asturias, made with beans, sausage, ham, meat and tomatoes. It is a perfect dish for winter, satifying and warming.

Spanish Dinner Menu for Winter
Spanish Dinner Menu for Winter

Vino Tinto
Red wine.

Spanish Sheep's Milk Cheese
Sheep's milk cheeses are generally cured cheeses and come from the North of Spain. They are some of the best cheeses to use for [i]tapas[/i] tasting.

Simple Fabada Asturiana
"Fabada Asturiana" is a typical and very traditional dish from Asturias, made with beans, sausage, ham, meat and tomatoes. If you don't have the time or all the ingredients, try this simplified "fabada" recipe, which does not require overnight soaking, takes half the cooking time and only a few ingredients.

Buying Spanish Olive Oil
Are you looking for a high quality olive oil, but are confused by the labels? Spain is one of the major producers of olive oil and Spanish olive oil is of very high quality. Learn what's important to look for on the label and what is just marketing hype!

Spanish Spring Brunch Menu
The following brunch menu includes an "tortilla espanola," asparagus, eggplant vinaigrette and garlicky shrimp. To finish off the meal, "macedonia de fruta tropical." And what brunch would be complete without cold sparkling wine?

Beef Fillets with Garlic
Breaded Beef Fillets with Garlic is an easy Spanish recipe and a tasty and quick main course for dinner. Try this recipe tonight with home fried potatoes and a fresh green salad and you'll see why so many Spanish cooks have made this a standard dinner!

Chuletas de Cordero
Hot, juicy lamb chops rubbed with garlic and salt. In the central and north of Spain, there is nothing to equal this taste sensation.

Endibias con Vinagreta
Belgian endives with a tomato vinaigrette makes a lovely start to a meal. Endives are a winter vegetable with a delicate, but slightly bitter taste. Adding a light vinaigrette makes a colorful and fresh salad.

Pressure Cookers
Like everywhere else, the pace of life has quickened in Spain and women don’t have endless hours to cook a stew or a pot of beans. In fact, no self-respecting Spanish housewife would be without her "olla express" or pressure cooker! They drastically reduce cooking times and make tougher cuts of meat very tender. Learn more about them here.

Menu del Dia
The "Menu del Dia" is the most economical way to eat in Spain.

What is Horchata de Chufa?
Horchata is a creamy white drink, served ice cold and popular all over Spain. But, what IS horchata? What are chufas?

Pollo a la Riojana
This chicken recipe comes from the region of La Rioja, in the North of Spain, hence the name "Pollo a la Riojana." It is a region well-known for its wine production. The winters in Northern Spain are cold, like the climate in much of Europe, so soups and stews are very popular. This stew includes chicken and chorizo with sautéed peppers and garlic. It is a hearty main course for winter, but is light enough for any time of the year.

Carne de Vaca con Tomate
Tender chunks of beef cooked in tomatoes, onion, garlic and red peppers. Although you might think of this as a wintery beef tomato stew, it is a great dish for any time of year. Serve with home-fried potatoes

Catalan Beef Stew Recipe
This recipe for Catalan Beef Stew or "Estofado de Rez a la Catalana" is easy and has a unique flavor, due to a surprise ingredient - chocolate! Serve it over a bed of white rice for an unusual and tasty stew this winter.