My boyfriend and I rang in the new year in Barcelona, arriving NYE night and randomly popping into the most fun tapas bar: Entrepanes Díaz in the L’Eixample district. We ate bombas con carne, tortilla española, and the first of many patatas bravas (fried potatoes with a paprika-rich tomato sauce and aioli, so good!).
I studied Spanish in Seville and Granada after college, so it was comforting to return to Spain and its siesta/tapas lifestyle. Many naps were had to accommodate late nights out. Even in January, the weather in Barcelona was mild and the food was fantastic everywhere. This summer, inspired by our trip, I made my own patatas bravas with a jamón board and tinto de verano, a summery drink of red wine, lemon soda and ice, or sangria’s lighter, easier cousin. It was a perfect summer meal and so easy to pull together! Here are 10 recipes to try your own delicious spread inspired by Spain.
Easy Spanish-Inspired Cheese Board
Averie Cooks
There’s something about a cheese board that feels like a party, even if it’s just the two of you. This Spanish cheese and ham board is ready in minutes and serves as a fun twist to your usual weeknight or girl dinner. (via Averie Cooks)
Gambas al ajillo (Spanish Garlic Shrimp)
A Spicy Perspective
This is another tapas I love to order if it’s on the menu. Packed with garlic, arbol chile, and sherry flavor, it’s the perfect dish for a light summer meal. Here’s the classic Spanish recipe from Curate Tapas Bar in Asheville, North Carolina. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Pan Con Tomate (Tomato Bread)
A Spicy Perspective
This popular snack in Spain often comes free with a glass of wine. It’s a great way to enjoy the season’s tomatoes with garlic, EVOO, and toasty bread. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Patatas Bravas
Vikalinka
This Spanish recipe is all about the paprika-rich sauce. Traditionally fried, Julia Frey of London-based Vikalinka uses an air fryer for the potatoes while I roasted them in lieu of frying or having an air fryer. Enjoy! (via Vikalinka)
Baked Churro Chips
Brit + Co
For dessert, buck tradition by making some churros into chips. They’re easy to make in big batches, and they’re even easier to dip into a chocolate sauce, dulce de leche sauce or whipped cream! (via Brit + Co)
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Lead image via Vikalinka
Dining and Cooking