Guest Blogger: Tapas bring a bit of Spain to your table

Today's Guest Blogger is Jeri, the Social Media/Marketing Intern for SecondCitySoiree.com. Follow Jeri on Twitter at twitter.com/JeriMarcello. 

Tapas and tapas bars are loved by many. Maybe it's the feeling of being just a bit closer to Southern Spain, or the excuse to try lots of flavors without having to commit to one dish.

If you're hosting a cocktail party and looking for a change from the typical hors d'oeuvres, tapas may be just the twist you need! Let's start with the drink. Wine will work just fine, but I have to suggest this sangria recipe that I found a few years ago. Other than skipping the maraschino cherries, I follow it exactly and it's always big hit. 

Patatas bravas will be a favorite of everyone. It always intrigues me that something as simple as potatoes and spicy sauce can seem so sophisticated!  

Some other authentic suggestions are albóndigas (Spanish meatballs) and champiñones al ajillo (ajillo mushrooms). Finally, the earliest versions of tapas were just slices of serrano ham.  Try this idea and serve it with melon for a refreshing twist.   

These recipes are straightforward, but if you're concerned about the time it will take to put together all of the dishes, take the advice of one of last week's Guest Bloggers!  Why not recruit a co-hostess to arrive early to help you prepare the plates (and taste test the sangria, of course)?  Enjoy!

 Photo credits: sangria, patatas bravas

Comments

[the savvy host]

delicious tapas are a WIN for our entertaining! Thanks for the savory reminder!