Spanish tapas are a delicious way to start a meal, or to sample a variety of small plates. If you’ve enjoyed them in Spain, or at a local Spanish restaurant, you know there are many delicious options. We’ve rounded up the most popular Spanish Tapas recipes for you to try at home!

In North America, we tend to eat dinner somewhere around 6 p.m. But if you hop on a plane and travel to Europe, you might notice that dinner is often served much later in the evening. So what do you do when you’re feeling a little hungry after lunch and before dinner?  

In Spain, many people head to the bars for a beer or a cocktail and some tasty nibbles called tapas. Served on small plates and meant for sharing, tapas are the perfect light bite to have before dinner. 

What Is the Meaning of Tapas?

In Spain, tapas is another word for a snack or appetizer. Tapas are typically small, savory dishes often served with drinks at bars. They’re great for sharing with family and friends, and a perfect way to try small amounts of different dishes. 

Popular Spanish Tapas Ideas

1. Tortilla Española (Spanish Omelet)

This Spanish version of an omelette is hearty enough for dinner! Loaded with potatoes, onions, and eggs, it’s closer to a frittata. Enjoy it with a green salad for a satisfying meal.

2. Croquetas de Jamón (Ham Croquettes)

These tender croquettes are filled with salty serrano ham. They’re best enjoyed hot, so gobble them up as soon as they’re ready!

3. Patatas Bravas (Crispy Potatoes)

There’s nothing like crisp, seasoned potatoes. Served with a tomato sauce for dipping, they would also be perfect as a side dish for dinner!

4. Gambas al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp)

If you love seafood, give this recipe a try. The shrimp is perfectly flavored with garlic, and the dish takes just 10 minutes to make.

5. Aceitunas (Marinated Olives)

Perfect as a salty snack, these olives are mixed with almonds for a delightful crunch and are served warm.

6. Champinones Al Ajillo (Garlic Mushrooms)

Made with butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, you probably have all of these ingredients in your fridge and pantry. And in just 10 minutes, you’ll be enjoying these tender and flavorful mushrooms.

7. Ensaladilla Rusa (Potato Salad)

Everyone loves potato salad and this one is delicious! It includes a can of tuna, so will definitely leave you feeling satisfied when you’re looking for a light snack.

8. Pulpo a la Gallego (Grilled Octopus)

Tender and delicious, this grilled octopus is flavored with garlic, fennel, and paprika. Serve it with some crusty bread for the perfect snack. 

9. Shrimp and Chorizo

Here’s a recipe for a one-pan meal that everyone will love scooping out of the dish. Seasoned shrimp and delicious chorizo are cooked in a tomato sauce for the perfect appetizer to be served alongside crusty bread or enjoyed on its own.

10. Tabla de Embutidos (Spanish Cheese Board)

Sometimes you want to nibble on a lot of tasty treats! This cheese board features a variety of Spanish cheeses, ham, sausage, almonds, and olives. It’s perfect to share with family and friends! 

11. Chorizo al Vino Tinto (Chorizo in Red Wine)

Known for its rich flavor, chorizo sausage is great as a small plate dish. Serve it with some bread and slices of cheese for a light dinner. 

12. Pan Con Tomate (Spanish Tomato Bread)

Similar to a flatbread, this tasty snack is served on ciabatta bread with fresh tomatoes, garlic, salt, and a splash of lime juice.

13. Albondigas (Meatballs)

Made with ground beef and ground pork, these saucy meatballs are delicious as a tapas, or as a main dish. 

14. Ensalad de Tomate (Tomato Salad)

Wondering what to do with your garden-fresh tomatoes? Use them in this recipe! Flavored with salty anchovies and capers, serve this dish with crusty bread at your next barbeque!  

15. Boquerones (Anchovies)

If you’re not a fan of anchovies, it might be time to give them another try! These anchovies are fresh, and flavored perfectly with olive oil, garlic, parsley, and salt.

16. Calamares Fritos (Fried Calamari)

Fried calamari is always a hit and is one of the most popular tapas in Spain. Follow the step-by-step instructions for calamari that’s perfectly cooked every time. 

17. Empanadillas Gallegas (Galician Turnovers)

Similar to empanadas, these small pastry turnovers are filled with red peppers, tuna, and hard-boiled eggs. Enjoy them on their own, or serve them with a crisp green salad for a light lunch.

18. Gildas (Olive and Pepper Skewers)

These small appetizers will definitely have your tastebuds dancing! Made with olives, peppers, and anchovies, they’re perfect for casual get-togethers. 

19. Carrillada (Braised Pork Cheeks)

This tender stewed pork dish is slow-cooked for hours but boy, is it worth the wait! It includes fingerling potatoes, carrots, and honey for a touch of sweetness. All you need is some crusty bread for a satisfying meal. 

20. Jamón ibérico (Serrano Ham and Tomato)

This tapas is super-easy to put together and really delicious! All you need is crusty bread, thin slices of ham, a large tomato, olive oil, and some seasonings. 

21. Huevos Rotos (Broken Eggs)

Who says you can’t have eggs for dinner? This dish includes eggs, potatoes, ham, green pepper, and chorizo sausage. Add some toast and it’s sure to hit the spot!

22. Spanish Banderillas (Pickled Vegetable Skewers)

Here’s another tapas that’s perfect for get-togethers. These easy to assemble skewers are a tasty combination of pickled onions, grilled red peppers, stuffed green olives, hot pickled chillies, and gherkins. 

23. Mejillones en Escabeche (Mussels)

All you need is 30 minutes to pull this dish together. Serve it with potato chips or fries and a cold glass of beer! 

24. Calamar al Vino Tinto (Simmered Squid)

If you’re looking for an alternative to fried or grilled squid, give this wine braised squid a try! Serve it with crusty bread to dip into the delicious sauce.

25. Pintxo De Chorizo Y Pimiento (Chorizo Skewers)

Perfect as a one-bite appetizer, serve these savory chorizo, cheese, and olive skewers at your next holiday get-together!

26. Espinacas con Garbanzos (Spinach and Chickpeas)

This dish is full of good-for-you garbanzo beans and tender spinach. Rich and satisfying, it’s ideal for vegetarians and vegans alike!

27. Pimientos de Padrón (Blistered Peppers)

If you haven’t had blistered peppers, you’re missing out! Tender, savory, and full of flavor, they’re also really easy to make. And if you’re watching your carbs, each serving has less than 3 grams of net carbs.

28. Almejas en Salsa Verde (Clams in Green Sauce)

Flavored with garlic, onion, white wine, and parsley, this recipe lets the flavor of the clams shine through. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!

29. Pisto (Vegetable Stew)

If you’re not a meat-eater, this is the perfect stew for you. Satisfying and full of flavor, all of the ingredients are easy to find. Serve it with fresh crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

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