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All Things Tapas: Top 10 Vegetarian Tapas and Top 10 Meaty Tapas

When we hear the word tapas- we think of Spain! But what are tapas?

We learned that back in the day, tapas = a cover/lid and were served in bars as a “cover” on the drink (eg: cheese or ham). Some say it’s to prevent stuff from falling into your drinks, while others say it’s to keep you from getting too drunk. Pick your favorite tale!

The best way we can describe tapas is the heart of Spanish cuisine and life! Tapas tend to be small dishes both hot and cold. Each dish is so beautifully crafted, that the star of the show is truly the item being showcased (whether it is shrimp, eggplants, or potatoes)!

Tapas are also specialized based on the region you are in, creating local flavors! The only way to experience tapas is to go to Spain and savor it all in!  You can never have too many tapas! We hope our photos inspire you to travel to Spain and embrace tapas! 

There is a common myth that Spanish food is not vegetarian-friendly. However, with one of us being vegetarian, we found that is not the case! We did a lot of research before going and got to taste some amazing food and flavors! Tapas for all!

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Here are our favorite picks in no particular order: 

10 Must-Try Vegetarian Tapas in Spain:

10. Patata Bravas 

9. Pa amb tomàquet or Pan con Tomate

A native staple of Catalan cuisine; made with bread, olive oil, garlic, salt, and tomatoes. Can often be served with all the ingredients in a deconstructed way that you can easily rub the tomato on the bread, add your seasoning and oil and enjoy! Very refreshing! 

8. Aceitunas 

5. Tortilla de patatas o Tortilla Española

4. Pimientos del padron

3. Champiñones al Ajillo 

2. Berenjenas con miel 

  1. Salmorejo

10 Meaty Tapas to Try When In Spain: 

In no particular order, enjoy!!

10. Jamón Ibérico

Be sure to order these and many other dishes every place you go! It is very common to go on a tapas crawl (going from one place to another ordering tapas and drinks). Taste the differences in the region and let us know your favorites!! 

Consider booking a tapas crawl or tour:

Highly recommended tours include:

BONUS —> Not a TAPA:

…. but definitely try Paella and Fiducia. Both can be made vegetarian (you may just have to check with the place first). 

Paella

Fideuá 

Consider a Paella making class, check this experience out!

Thank you for reading! Hopefully our tapas inspire you to find your favorites on your next trip to Spain!

Check out the Spain page for destination inspiration!

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