Tapas (Spanish: [ˈtapa]) are appetisers or snacks in Spanish cuisine. They can be combined to make a full meal and are served cold (such as mixed olives and cheese) or hot (such as chopitos, which are battered, fried baby squid; or patatas bravas, spicy potatoes). We've collected 50 of our favorite Spanish tapas recipes—all of them easy, authentic, and guaranteed to make you fall in love with this country's cuisine (if you haven't already)!

Understanding the Context

Spanish tapas have earned an international reputation among chefs, foodies, and culinary travelers. Celebrate Spanish specialties spanning Gambas al Ajillo, calamares fritos, and albóndigas. NEW! Save as a collection on MyRecipes.

Key Insights

Popular throughout Spain, tapas are festive and delicious... Tapas are a cornerstone of Spanish cuisine - delightful small dishes or appetizers meant for sharing. The word “tapas” in Spanish literally means “covers” or “lids,” and these bite-sized portions have evolved into a way of eating rather than a specific recipe. In this post, you’ll find some of the most famous Spanish tapas as well as a few of my favorite lesser-known regional specialties that I discovered while traveling across Spain. Many tapas rely heavily on local ingredients.

Final Thoughts

22 Best Spanish Tapas to Try in Spain (and How to Make Them at Home) The Michelin-starred chef helped bring tapas culture to the US, but there's nothing like enjoying them in Spain. Here are his tips for enjoying the beloved shared plates. Chef José Andrés teaches you how to enjoy tapas like a Spaniard - BBC Tapas are more than just appetizers—they’re a way of life in Spain! Cocktail hour is defined by these distinctive little bar bites, and it’s easier than you might think to enjoy tapas at home. This collection of easy tapas recipes is packed with flavor, simple ingredients, and lots of Mediterranean charm.