A Tapas Experience

 

A Casual and Laid-Back Get-Together: Simplicity is the key. Casual and laid back is the essence of Spanish meals. Nobody is in a hurry. A Tapas Experience should not be a come-and-go party. Otherwise, people will miss out on its true essence. Most of the tapas recipes are not complicated, and they take very little time to prepare. Many of them can be made ahead which will free you to mingle with your guests once they arrive. After all, mingling is an essential element.

 

Pitcher of Sangria

 

Manchego – Cheese made in the La Mancha region of Spain from the milk of sheep of the Manchego breed and is one of the most popular cheeses from Spain.

Torta del Casar – Very similar to Brie with a soft and creamy center. Make a thick syrup out of a ¼ C. Spanish Sherry and 1 T. sugar to drizzle over the top. Heat until sugar is dissolved then boil for about 3-4 minutes until thick.

Cabrales – A delicious blue cheese made from primarily cow’s milk blended with goat and sheep milk. Made in Asturias, Spain and found to be very similar to Roquefort. It is considered to be one of the finest blue cheeses in the world.

Jamón Serrano or Jamón Ibérico – These Spanish dry cured hams pair perfectly with the above Spanish cheeses. Sliced paper thin these hams have a rich/buttery and salty/sweet flavor.

Chorizo – A dried and cured sausage in a casing. Found in the ready-to-eat meat section alongside salami. You can purchase either a sweet or spicy version, whichever you prefer.

 

Spanish Olives

Marcona Almonds

Fig Jam

Crusty Bread

Paella