Tapas Recipes, Ideas & Meals

Croquetas are, like, the most delicious things on the planet and these simple Spanish-inspired recipes will help you create a world-beating tapas platter. Make some homemade tapas at home with this selection of easy tapas recipes. From crispy chorizo loaded potatoes (patatas bravas) to an anchovy-laden pan con tomate, all of these dishes will make some serious upgrade to your picky bits tea. There’s a reason people literally fly to San Sebastian to eat tapas but these easy tapas recipes are the best way to replicate that experience from the comfort of your own kitchen.

All Recipes

Spanish tortilla. Pan con tomate. Cheese croquetas. These back-to-basic tapas recipes are about as easy as they come. You won’t need to faff about too much to get these on the table. It’s just good food. Simple.

Easy Vegetarian Tapas Recipes

Explore the vibrant flavours of vegetarian tapas with these easy and meat-free recipes. From savoury stuffed mushrooms and grilled vegetable skewers to creamy spinach and artichoke dip, these dishes highlight the natural flavours of fresh vegetables in bite-sized portions, perfect for sharing and snacking on with friends and family.

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Quickest Tapas Recipes

Whip up homemade tapas in no time with these quick and simple recipes. From classic patatas bravas and Spanish tortilla to marinated olives and cheese platters, these dishes require minimal preparation and ingredients, making them perfect for effortless entertaining or a tasty little snack any time of day.

Related Recipes

Couldn’t find what you’re looking for? Maybe some of these other recipes will sort you out. There’s plenty of Spanish recipes here as well as many decidedly un-Spanish recipes as well. Discover everything from paella to ‘nduja meatballs.

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Tapas are a Spanish culinary tradition of small, savoury dishes typically served as appetisers or snacks. The word "tapas" originates from the Spanish verb "tapar," which means "to cover" or "to lid." It is believed that tapas originated in southern Spain, where bartenders would cover glasses of wine with small plates or slices of bread to keep insects out. Over time, this practice evolved into serving small bites of food alongside drinks, creating the tradition of tapas. Today, tapas are enjoyed across Spain and around the world. Chances are high that there’s a restaurant near you that goes tapas.

Common flavours and spices in tapas dishes include the richness of olive oil, the aromatic depth of garlic, and the sweetness of tomatoes, which form the base of many tapas sauces and dishes. Wine is often used to deglaze pans or add depth of flavour to sauces, while paprika adds a smoky and slightly spicy note to dishes like patatas bravas. Chilli peppers are also frequently used to add heat and complexity to tapas, creating dishes that are vibrant, flavorful, and full of Spanish flair.

A great, easy tapas recipe is one that features simple yet flavourful ingredients, requires minimal preparation, and can be enjoyed in bite-sized portions. It should offer a balance of textures and flavours, with a combination of savoury, sweet, and tangy elements. Ideally, the recipe should be flexible and adaptable to personal preferences and dietary restrictions, allowing for easy customisation. Additionally, a great tapas recipe should be versatile enough to serve as a standalone appetiser or to be combined with other tapas dishes to create a diverse and satisfying spread.

Get creative with your tapas and small plate presentations by utilising various serving methods. Arrange an array of tapas on rustic wooden boards for a communal dining experience or serve individual portions in small bowls or jars for an elegant touch. Create visually stunning displays by stacking tapas vertically to form towers or arranging them in bento boxes with dividers. For a fun and portable option, serve tapas in paper cones or on skewers for easy enjoyment while mingling.

Creating a balanced tapas spread involves offering a variety of flavours, textures, and ingredients to ensure a well-rounded dining experience. Start by selecting a mix of hot and cold dishes, including options like grilled vegetables, cold salads, and warm dips. Incorporate a range of proteins such as meats, seafood, and plant-based options like beans or tofu to satisfy different dietary preferences. Include both savoury and sweet dishes, such as cured meats and cheeses alongside fresh fruit or dessert tapas like churros or flan. Finally, consider offering a selection of bread, crackers, or crostini for dipping and pairing with the other tapas.

For a versatile tapas wine selection, consider Spanish wines like Tempranillo, Rioja, Albariño, or Cava, known for complementing a wide range of flavours. Sherry, available in dry Fino or nutty Oloroso styles, pairs well with seafood and cured meats. Crisp whites such as Sauvignon Blanc or Verdejo complement lighter tapas, while dry rosé offers a balanced option for various dishes. Light-bodied reds like Pinot Noir or Garnacha are ideal for heartier tapas. Ultimately, the best wine is one that suits your preferences and complements the flavours of your chosen tapas.