Tapas are snacks or small plates that originate in Spain. With the country’s many diverse regions, tapas can vary from town to town but are always a favorite among locals and visitors. Here is a breakdown of some of the most popular tapas to try on your next Spanish vacation.

Patatas Bravas

These tasty potato snacks are served all over Spain but are often prepared with slight variations depending on the region. The ingredients are simple and delicious: cut potatoes fried in oil and served with a spicy tomato-based sauce or aioli (or both).

By Joanbanjo | Wiki Commons

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Croquetas

Croquetas are a personal favorite. These delicious bite-sized snacks are fried to perfection and filled with a variety of meat, fish, or vegetables with some of the most popular ingredients including ham and cod.

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Tortilla Española

Tortilla Española is more of a cultural tradition than a bar snack. These omelet-like delicacies take years to perfect. They are made with potatoes bound with egg and are usually flavored with onions. As tapas, they are commonly served in small wedges.

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Gambas Al Ajillo

If you are going for something a bit lighter than the fried and potato-filled options above, Gambas Al Ajillo are a good place to start. Simple ingredients include fresh prawns that are cooked in sizzling olive oil with garlic and chili peppers.

By Javier Lastras | Wiki Commons

Montaditos

Similar to our version of a sandwich, montaditos are often served on toasted bread similar to a baguette with a variety of the best ingredients available including meat, fish, and vegetables. The montadito is a tradition that predates even the sandwich all the way back to the fifteenth century.

Ensaladilla Rusa

Originating from Russia, the Ensaladilla Rusa is a potato salad mixed with tuna, mayonnaise, and vegetables like carrots and peas. You can find this dish at eateries and bars across Spain.

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Pimientos de Padrón

Head to the Galicia region in Spain to enjoy fresh Pimientos de Padrón. The small peppers in this dish are from that region. Fried in oil and salted, these peppers pack huge flavor and are the perfect option for vegetarians.

By Tim Lucas | Unsplash

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