Anchovies are a staple in Spanish cuisine. It has a salty, umami punch that enhances the simple ingredients into a perfect, delicious tapas. It is prominent on the menu of tapas. For a Spanish tapas, the anchovy is more than just a dish; it is the dish of bursting flavour. It has the value of Spain’s most beloved ingredients.
You can find this on pizza. Spanish anchovies are cured, tender and flavourful. It brings a rich taste from salad, toast, to flatbreads. It is a must-try Spanish tapas spread. These are extraordinary bites.
In this blog post, you will learn how to make 10 easy recipes with the anchoas. These are very impressive if you are looking for a tapas night or a quick snack. I am so excited to share this with you.
Table of Contents
1. Pan con Anchoas
Pan con Anchoas is a Spanish bread. Sometimes the simplest things are the most delicious. It has a few quality ingredients: ripe tomato on the surface and extra virgin olive oil. You can also top with a Spanish anchovy fillet.
These ingredients make every bite so satisfying. Juicy tomato and olive oil are key ingredients to balance the flavour. You can have this as a snack, an appetizer or part of a full tapas spread.
2. Anchoas al Ajillo
Anchoas is a Spanish tapa that is very simple and includes high-quality ingredients. You have to sauté in warm olive oil, which is infused with garlic. It is a wonderful combination of al ajillo, literally meaning garlic, and is associated with Gambas al ajillo.
“Simple ingredients, bold Spanish flavor—Garbanzos con Espinacas is comfort food at its healthiest.”
You can cook slowly until it goes golden and fragrant, then add anchovy fillets for just a few seconds. You can serve it with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. It is best enjoyed when it is hot and fresh.
3. Banderillas
Banderillas are very popular and colourful tapas. There is fun in every bite of tapas. Their name translates as Little flags in Spanish. Every bite has a big flavour on the stick.
Each skewer typically has a mix of briny and tangy ingredients: a Spanish anchovy, a green olive, a slice of pickled gherkin, a piece of roasted red pepper, and sometimes even a pearl onion or a chunk of pickled chilli for heat. It is perfect as a no-cook tapa, easy to assemble and perfect for snacking alongside a drink.
4. Ensalada de Anchoas
Ensalada de Anchoas is literally translated to Anchovy salad, and like many dishes, it emphasizes freshness and simple ingredients. It has Mediterranean magic in such ingredients. It is good for summer or as a light tapas spread.
Ensalada de Anchoas typically highlights the anchovies because it is a key flavourful component, with fresh vegetables and a light dressing. It is a perfect mix of fresh, salty and tangy. Slice ripe tomatoes and red onions, then layer them on a plate with olives and Spanish anchovy fillets. Serve it chilled or at room temperature.
5. Huevos Rellenos con Anchoas
Huevos Rellenos con Anchoas is a classic and Spanish tapa. It is mostly famous in warm months and is very essential with a taste of Spanish deviled eggs. These are creamy bites and very easy to prepare. It enhances wonderfully on a tapas table.
Start by boiling eggs, then slice them in half and scoop out the yolks. You have to finely chop the mash yolks with anchovy fillets, mayonnaise and mustard or lemon juice. You can serve at parties, picnics or as a snack.
6. Anchoas y Queso
Anchoas y Queso is a classic tapa with a boosting flavour. It involves just a couple of ingredients like anchovies and cheese that give a rich, salty and satisfying bite. There is a sharpness in the cheese mellows.
A slice of Manchego cheese, agnes or nuts, and goat cheese is the best pairing. You can serve them on toasted bread, crackers, or simply as-is on a plate. It is very easy to make and also looks elegant.
7. Patatas con Anchoas
Patatas con Anchoas is a humble and delicious tapa. It is less common but has a surprisingly satisfying tapa with a combination of Spanish ingredients: potatoes and anchovies. This serves as a warm or cold beverage and is perfect for any season.
Start by boiling and roasting small potatoes. Slice them and serve on a plate. You can top each piece with a Spanish anchovy fillet. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of smoked paprika and at the end sprinkle with chopped parsley. It is full of rich flavour.
8. Tosta de Anchoas y Pimientos
Tosta de Anchoas y Pimientos is a fantastic and simple Spanish tapa that has sweet and smoked roasted peppers on toasted bread. It is a kind of open-faced sandwich or bruschetta. Toast slices of crusty bread and use a good quality rustic bread, baguette or even sourdough.
There is a magic in the contrasting flavour. You can drizzle with a bit of olive oil, finish with fresh parsley or a few flakes of sea salt. It is a fantastic example of how simple Spanish tapas can be flavourful.
9. Coca de Anchoas
Coca de Anchoas is a traditional type of flatbread or pizza-like dish. It originated from Catalonia, Valencia and other parts of Eastern Spain. It is a combination of a thin and crispy base with a mix of vegetables and anchovies.
This dish is very easy to make and is made with simple dough, topped with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Once baked until golden, it’s finished with anchovy fillets laid over the top, adding a salty contrast to the sweet, caramelized veggies.
10. Pepinos Rellenos de Anchoas
Pepinos Rellenos de Anchoas is a light, refreshing and very easy tapa. It is very popular during warmer weather. It has the crispness of cucumber with a salty, savoury punch of anchovies.
You can slice a cucumber into thick rounds and centre it around. You can fill each with a paste or a rolled anchovy fillet. Top with a drizzle of olive oil, sprinkle some black pepper or chopped tomato for great texture. It is a low-effort and so satisfying dish. Serve it with a cold glass of white wine or vermouth.
Conclusion
Whether you’re new to Spanish anchovies or already a fan, these recipes show just how easy it is to turn anchovies into something truly special. With just a few ingredients, you can create tapas that are packed with flavour, full of tradition, and perfect for sharing.
Don’t be afraid to experiment—try one or two of these dishes for your next appetizer night or go all in and host a full tapas spread. You’ll be surprised how versatile and delicious these little fish can be. Share your feedback with me and some creative ideas or tips. I would love to hear. Don’t forget to share with your friends, family and loved ones!
