Spain is renowned for its vibrant and diverse tapas culture, where small plates of food are shared among friends and family. Among these delightful dishes, a refreshing and healthy seafood tapas stands out as an ideal choice for hot summer days.
This simple yet flavourful dish combines the best of the sea with fresh vegetables, offering a light and satisfying culinary experience. In this article, we explore the tradition of seafood tapas in Spain and provide a quick and easy recipe to enjoy at home.
The tradition of tapas in Spain
Tapas are more than just appetisers; they are a way of life in Spain. The tradition of tapas dates back centuries, originating as a practical way to cover drinks with small plates of food to keep out dust and flies. Over time, this practice evolved into a beloved culinary tradition, with each region of Spain offering its own unique variations.
Seafood plays a significant role in Spanish cuisine, given the country’s extensive coastline and rich maritime history. Seafood tapas, in particular, highlight the freshness and quality of Spain’s marine bounty, making them a popular choice in coastal regions and beyond.
A healthy and refreshing seafood tapas
This seafood tapas is a versatile and healthy dish that can be customised with your favourite seafood and vegetables. It’s quick to make, light, and bursting with fresh flavours—perfect for summer gatherings or as a delightful starter. It can even be made in bulk and served at BBQs.
Ingredients:
- A selection of your favuorite seafood (e.g., crabsticks (chopped into chunks), mussels, king prawns, calamari)
- 1 yellow bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Juice of one fresh lemon
- 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of vinegar (sherry vinegar or white wine vinegar)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Bread for serving
- A glass of chilled white wine (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the seafood: If using raw seafood, cook it according to your preference (e.g., boil, steam, or sauté). Let it cool to room temperature. If using pre-cooked seafood, ensure it is properly thawed and ready to use.
Chop the vegetables: Finely chop the yellow, red, and green bell peppers, and the onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Combine ingredients: Add the seafood to the bowl with the vegetables. Mix well to combine.
Season the mixture: Squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the seafood and vegetable mixture. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and vinegar. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss everything together gently to ensure an even coating.
Optional garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for an added burst of colour and flavour.
Serve: Transfer the seafood tapas to a serving platter or individual plates. Serve with slices of fresh bread on the side. Pair with a glass of chilled white wine to complete the experience.
Enjoying seafood tapas
This refreshing seafood tapas is a celebration of simplicity and fresh ingredients. The combination of sweet and crunchy bell peppers, tangy lemon juice, and the briny flavours of seafood creates a harmonious blend that is both satisfying and invigorating.
Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée or enjoying a casual meal with friends, this seafood tapas is sure to impress. Its versatility allows you to tailor it to your tastes, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Embrace the spirit of Spanish tapas and savour the light, refreshing flavours that make this dish a timeless favorite. So, gather your ingredients, pour a glass of wine, and transport yourself to a sunny Spanish terrace with this delightful seafood tapas.