Time For Tapas: 10 Most Iconic Spanish Small Plates

Tapas are at the heart of Spanish dining culture; small, flavorful dishes meant to be shared with friends and family.

From sizzling garlic shrimp to crispy croquettes, these ten iconic bites embody the spirit of Spain’s most beloved tapas, perfect for recreating that festive Spanish atmosphere at home.

1. Pan con Tomate (Tomato Bread)

Catalonian,Cuisine,Pan,Con,Tomate,,Bread,With,Tomato,And,Garlic — Shutterstock

A Catalan classic: rustic bread rubbed with ripe tomato, olive oil, and sea salt. Often served with jamón ibérico or Manchego, it’s the ultimate simple yet perfect tapa.

2. Pimientos de Padrón

These small green peppers are flash-fried in olive oil and sprinkled with coarse salt. Most are mild, but every now and then, one packs a fiery surprise, part of the fun of eating them.

3. Boquerones en Vinagre (Marinated Anchovies)

Spanish Tapas Plate Boquerones en Vinagre — Illustration/MGDK

Fresh anchovies cured in vinegar and garlic, then drizzled with olive oil and parsley. Bright, tangy, and refreshing, this tapa is a seafood lover’s dream.

4. Gambas al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp)

Garlic,Shrimp,Pinchos,Tapas,From,Spain,Gambas,Al,Ajillo — Shutterstock

A must-have on any tapas menu, these sizzling shrimp are cooked in olive oil with plenty of garlic and a touch of chili.

Quick, fragrant, and packed with flavor, they pair perfectly with crusty bread to soak up the garlicky oil.

5. Calamares Fritos (Fried Squid)

Fried,Squids,Or,Octopus,(calamari),With,Sauce,-,Unhealthy,Foods — Shutterstock

Crispy rings of calamari served with lemon or garlicky aioli; simple yet irresistible. A seaside favorite that brings Mediterranean sunshine straight to your table.

6. Patatas Bravas

Patatas,Bravas,,Deep,Fried,Potatoes,With,Spicy,Sauce,In,Black — Shutterstock

Spain’s favorite comfort food: crispy fried potatoes topped with smoky paprika sauce and creamy aioli. This Madrid-born dish is a staple in bars across the country and a true crowd-pleaser.

7. Croquetas de Jamón (Ham Croquettes)

Homemade,Ham,Croquette,,Typical,Spanish,Cuisine,Recipe,,Fried,Delicious,Snak — Shutterstock

Golden and crisp on the outside, creamy and savory inside, these béchamel-based croquettes with Serrano ham are pure indulgence. A classic tapa that disappears quickly from any platter.

8. Tortilla Española (Spanish Omelet)

Tortilla_Española_(Spanish_Potato_Omelet) — Wikimedia Commons

Eggs, potatoes, and onions come together in this thick, tender omelet. Served warm or at room temperature, sliced into wedges, it’s one of Spain’s most iconic comfort foods.

9. Albóndigas (Spanish Meatballs)

Albóndigas with Mushrooms — Illustration/MGDK

These juicy meatballs, often simmered in a rich tomato and wine sauce, are a hearty staple in tapas bars. Some regions use beef, others pork or lamb, but all versions are comforting and flavorful.

10. Chorizo al Vino (Chorizo in Red Wine)

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Spicy Spanish chorizo simmered gently in red wine until tender and juicy. A smoky, savory bite that pairs perfectly with a glass of Rioja.