There is just something about the combo of ripe tomatoes and olive oil and crusty bread that makes a person feel good in their heart. These Spanish recipes are bringing big bossy flavors to your table with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.
1. Spanish Spiced Almonds
Roasting nuts makes them taste incredible, but this version takes things to a new level. Almendras fritas are a popular snack in Spain for good reason.
You season these almonds with salt and Spanish smoked paprika for unbelievable flavor. Serve them alongside a cold beer for the happiest hour.
2. Watermelon Gazpacho
This soup cools you down instantly on hot days. I assumed it would be sweet, but the flavor profile is actually savory.
The mild melon sweetness balances out the savory notes perfectly. This recipe makes a large batch that tastes even better as it sits in the fridge.
3. Spanish Pork Skewers
Pinchos Morunos features tender pork flavored with lemon, garlic, cumin, and sweet paprika. You skewer the meat and grill it until it reaches charred perfection.
Dip the finished product in Mojo Picon for a spicy and tangy kick. This sauce uses red chilies and vinegar to create amazing flavor.
4. Spanish Garlic Mushrooms
Champinones Al Ajillo is a popular tapas dish perfect for parties. Dry sherry takes the combination of mushrooms and garlic up a notch.
The sweet wine complements the earthy flavors beautifully. It is a ridiculously yummy treat.
5. Salmorejo (Cold Tomato Soup)
Salmorejo is a famous Spanish soup featuring ripe tomatoes. You serve it cold just like gazpacho for a refreshing summer meal.
Bread thickens the mixture of sherry vinegar and olive oil significantly. Top it off with cured ham and a boiled egg for a complete dish.
6. Paella
No list of Spanish cuisine is complete without mentioning this famous rice dish. It features soft grains loaded with shrimp and lobster.
Saffron infusion adds incredible flavor and color to the mix. This simplified version lets you master the classic without any stress.
7. Marinated Carrots
Spanish cuisine offers excellent vegetable entrees alongside the meat dishes. Zanahorias alinadas involves soaking carrots in garlic and spices.
The contrast between the natural sweetness and pungent garlic creates a dish full of flavor. Vegetarians will absolutely love this simple side.
8. Spanish Rice
Transform boring white grains into a side dish fit for any party. You infuse fluffy rice with tomato sauce and spicy chili.
It is packed with flavor and impossible to resist. Throw everything in one pot for an effortless crowd pleaser.
9. Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Dates
You only need three ingredients and some skewers for this appetizer. Wrap sweet dates and creamy goat cheese in bacon before baking them to a crisp.
The texture contrast between chewy fruit and smoky meat is pure perfection. You should definitely triple the batch because they disappear fast.
10. Tomato and Butter Bean Dip
This mixture of big white beans and tomato paste is everything you need. Garlic, olive oil, and shallots create a rich and buttery profile.
It tastes sweet and savory all at once. Dunk pita chips or crusty bread into this marvelous creation for an incredible snack.
11. Patatas Bravas
Enjoy these simple fried potato cubes flavored with a spicy kick. This version bakes the spuds instead of frying them while maintaining incredible crispness.
You boil them partially in water with baking soda first. Top everything with smoky brava sauce and rich garlic aioli.
12. Spanish Chickpea Stew
Garbanzo con espinacas is a flavorful tomato stew packed with healthy ingredients. Cumin and cayenne pepper give the chickpeas and spinach a nice kick.
This dish is loaded with vitamins and nutrients. Pair the rich stew with brown rice for a hearty meal.
13. Pimientos de Padrón
These fried peppers are a simple appetizer that packs a punch. Pimientos are small green peppers that originated in Spain.
Most of them taste mild, but you might find a super hot one occasionally. It is a delicious game of chance.
14. Pisto
Pisto is the Spanish version of ratatouille featuring stewed vegetables. The key to success lies in using high quality produce.
You cook each vegetable separately to perfect the texture. The extra work rewards you with incredible flavor.
15. Arroz Con Pollo
Whip up this hearty and savory dish any time you want comfort food. It features tender chicken thighs and colorful vegetables mixed with rice.
Saffron gives the grains a vibrant yellow hue just like paella. The whole meal comes together in a single pot.
16. Red Sangria
No feast is complete without a pitcher of sweet and fruity wine. Red sangria packs a punch and tastes absolutely delicious.
Locals also drink a simpler version called tinto de verano. Mix red wine with orange juice and fruit slices for this refreshing beverage.
17. Spiced Spanish Hot Chocolate
Nothing beats the fame of this thick and sweet beverage. It is the perfect chocolatey drink to boost your morning energy.
Cornstarch gives it that signature thickness instead of cream or milk.
18. Tortilla Española
This hearty omelet comes stuffed with tender fried potatoes. The simple combination of fluffy eggs and spuds really hits the spot.
You can eat it with rice or use it as a filling for sandwiches. It tastes amazing for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
19. Easy Spanish Octopus
You have to try this recipe if you feel adventurous in the kitchen. The dish requires only a handful of ingredients to prepare.
Read the full instructions to ensure you avoid rubbery tentacles. It is a simple way to master seafood at home.
20. Ensalada Mixta (Mixed Salad)
This mixed salad is anything but basic. It combines eggs, lettuce, tuna, and white asparagus with a rainbow of other vegetables.
The vibrant colors and textures create a feast for the eyes. It proves that healthy dishes can be exciting.
21. Calamares a La Romana
Battered and fried squid is an insanely addictive snack. The exterior stays crisp while the inside remains tender and chewy.
You only need a regular flour batter and plenty of oil. Fry the squid until it turns golden brown.
22. Sopa De Lentejas
Sopa de lentejas is a classic soup often enjoyed for lunch. This version combines lentils with pork loin and Spanish chorizo.
You also add carrots and potatoes to make it extra hearty. It is rich and flavorful comfort food.
23. Pan Con Tomate
Enjoy toasted bread loaded with fresh garlic and tomatoes. A drizzle of olive oil finishes this tasty breakfast dish.
The Spanish often keep their morning meals light with toast and coffee. This recipe offers a nutritious way to start your day.