12 Easy Spanish Appetizers

 

When it comes to delicious bites to whet your appetite, Spanish cuisine has some of the best appetizers around. So why not try them out now?

 

 

Are you ready for a taste of Spain? From tapas to pintxos, Spanish appetizers are famous for their bold flavors and colorful presentation.

Imagine savoring a plate of gambas al ajillo, succulent shrimp cooked with garlic and olive oil. Or maybe you’re in the mood for some tortilla española, a classic potato and onion omelet that’s a favorite of locals and tourists alike.

Whether you’re enjoying a casual evening with friends or looking for a sophisticated start to a dinner party, Spanish appetizers are sure to impress.

So why not gather your amigos and try out some of these mouthwatering bites?

 

Easy Spanish Appetizers

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1. Patatas bravas

Get The Full Recipe On The Mediterranean Dish

Have you ever tried patatas bravas? They’re a classic Spanish tapa and oh so delicious!

These crispy fried potatoes are typically smothered in a mouthwatering bravas sauce made with a blend of spices and tomato.

It’s the sauce that sets patatas bravas apart and gives them their signature flavor.

While some say these delectable bites originated in Barcelona, they hail from Madrid.

So, whether you’re in Spain or whipping up some tapas at home, be sure to add patatas bravas to your menu!

 

2. Croquetas (Spanish appetizers)

Get The Full Recipe On The Spruce Eats

These delicious bites are a must-try! They’re filled with a yummy blend of ham, cheese, and bechamel sauce, then perfectly fried to crispy goodness.

If you’re a fan of Spanish cuisine, you’ve probably had croquetas de jamón before.

But did you know they’re easy to make at home? Whip up a batch for your next get-together or enjoy them as a tasty snack with a glass of your favorite beverage.

You won’t regret it!

 

3. Chorizo al vino

Get The Full Recipe On Caroline’s Cooking

Have you tried this fantastic appetizer called Chorizo al vino tinto?

It’s a popular Spanish tapas dish made by simmering spicy chorizo slices in red wine.

This cooking method creates a rich and flavorful taste that will leave you wanting more!

This dish is perfect for snacking on with other tapas or even as a light meal. Give it a try!

 

4. Gazpacho (Spanish appetizers)

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You’re in for a treat with this chilled soup! It’s a delightful blend of fresh veggies like juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and peppers, along with bread for a satisfying texture.

It’s the perfect dish to cool you down on a hot summer day,  and it’s super easy to make too.

Gazpacho is a classic soup that embodies the flavors of the season, so you can enjoy the goodness of freshly harvested produce without even turning on your stove or oven!

Simply chop up the ingredients, toss them in the blender or food processor, and you’re good to go. Give it a try!

 

5. Gambas al ajillo

Get The Full Recipe On Serious Eats

Are you a fan of shrimp? If so, you’ve got to try Gambas al ajillo!

These succulent shrimp cooked in garlicky olive oil are a staple in Spanish cuisine and make for an irresistible tapas bar snack.

Pair them with a nice sherry and some rusty Spanish bread for the ultimate flavor combination.

Even when the dish is just okay, it’s still pretty darn good! Trust me, I’ve had my fair share of mediocre gambas al ajillo, even in Spain.

But there’s just something about that sweet shrimp and fragrant garlic that keeps me coming back for more.

So, next time you’re in the mood for a simple and delicious appetizer, give Gambas al ajillo a try!

 

6. Spanish Beef Empanadas Recipe (Spanish appetizers)

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Have you ever heard of empanadas? They’re a delicious dish that consists of a thin and flaky dough stuffed with various fillings.

The classic version is made with ground beef, but there are hundreds of different fillings to choose from!

If you want to make Spanish beef empanadas at home, you’ll only need a few basic ingredients, some seasoning, and a bit of patience if it’s your first time making them.

The shaping part can be tricky if you’re not used to it, but don’t worry – making empanadas isn’t rocket science!

With a little practice, you’ll be a pro in no time. So why not give it a try and enjoy these delicious treats at home?

 

7. Tortilla Española

Get The Full Recipe On The Spruce Eats

Get ready for a tasty treat with this Spanish omelet!

Made with a medley of potatoes, onions, and eggs, it’s the perfect choice for a light and filling appetizer.

In Spain, this dish is a popular go-to, and many consider it to be the national dish.

Locally known as “tortilla de patatas,” you’ll find it served as a tapa in bars and cafes all over the country.

It’s also a common light dinner in Spanish households.

The best part? This moist and flavorful dish is made with only a handful of exceptional ingredients.

To make it perfect, use high-quality olive oil and fresh eggs for that extra burst of flavor.

As the oil is used to cook the potatoes, its delicious taste will be infused into every bite.

 

8. Pan Con Tomate with Jamón Serrano (Spanish appetizers)

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Have you ever tried pan con tomate? Also known as pa amb tomàquet, this traditional Spanish and Catalan dish is a must-try!

Using high-quality, fresh ingredients is key to making this dish shine.

It’s typically served tapas-style alongside other delicious Spanish sides.

To prepare it, simply slice fresh tomatoes and rub them onto the bread.

Then, drizzle with some high-quality olive oil and serve.

It’s a straightforward dish that showcases the beauty of simple ingredients.

So, the next time you’re looking for a delicious and authentic Spanish snack, give pan con tomate a try!

 

9. Spanish Tuna-Stuffed Piquillo Peppers

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Have you tried these amazing stuffed red peppers yet?

They’re sweet, and smoky, and can be filled with all sorts of delicious things like cheese or tuna.

These peppers are not only flavorful but also visually stunning, making them the perfect appetizer for any occasion!

The Spanish are known for their love of delicious food, and this recipe for pimientos del piquillo rellenos de atún is no exception.

It’s a mouth-watering dish that requires just two jars of really delicious stuff – piquillo peppers and oil-packed bonito tuna – and can be put together in just 15 minutes.

So why not give it a try and impress your guests with this Spanish classic?

 

10. Albondigas (Spanish appetizers)

Get The Full Recipe On Simply Recipes

You’re in for a treat with these delicious meatballs! Made from a blend of beef and pork, they’re cooked to perfection in a scrumptious tomato sauce.

In Mexican cuisine, these meatballs are known as “albondigas,” which means  “meatballs” in Spanish.

To make this soup, sauté some onions and garlic, and then add broth and tomatoes to create a simple yet flavorful base.

Next, drop in your meatballs made with either ground beef or turkey and rice, which will create additional broth.

Lastly, add some carrots, green beans, and peas to round out the dish with some extra nutrition and flavor.

It’s the perfect meal for any occasion!

 

11. Cheater’s Aioli

Get The Full Recipe On Cookie and Kate

Do you love dips with your snacks? If so, you’ve got to try aioli!

It’s a garlicky sauce that’s a staple in Spanish cuisine and is perfect for dipping vegetables, bread, or seafood.

If you’re wondering what aioli is, think of it as a cousin to mayonnaise.

Both are made by emulsifying raw eggs with oil, but aioli uses olive oil instead of neutral oil, and lemon juice instead of vinegar.

Sometimes, the French even add a little mustard to the mix. Regardless of its origins, aioli is a versatile and tasty sauce that’s sure to elevate any snack or meal.

So, next time you’re looking for a dip with some extra flavor, give Aioli a try!

 

12. Marinated Olives (Spanish appetizers)

Get The Full Recipe On The Spanish Radish

If you’re a fan of Spanish food, then you have to try marinated olives!

They’re a simple yet satisfying appetizer that can be found on almost every table in Spain – from dusty roadside bars to upscale restaurants in Madrid.

The great news is that you can easily make marinated olives at home!

With just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients and 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a batch of Spanish-style marinated olives for your next dinner party or tapas night.

They’re the perfect way to impress your guests and add a touch of Spanish flair to your menu.

So why not give it a try and see for yourself how delicious these little bites can be?

 

 

Spanish appetizers are a delicious and exciting way to explore the flavors of Spain.

From the savory cured meats to the fresh seafood dishes, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

So why not spice up your next meal with a taste of Spain and experience the joy of sharing food with family and friends?

 

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