From sizzling garlic shrimp served in bubbling olive oil to crispy fried calamari enjoyed with a glass of Spanish wine, seafood tapas showcase some of the freshest and most flavorful dishes in Spanish cuisine.
Found in coastal cities, seaside taverns, and bustling tapas bars across Spain, these small plates celebrate the country’s deep connection to the sea and its rich culinary traditions.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Spain, exploring authentic Spanish food, or looking for inspiration for your next gathering, these seafood tapas offer a delicious introduction to one of Spain’s most beloved dining experiences.
Tapas are designed for sharing, turning every meal into a social event filled with conversation, variety, and unforgettable flavors.
1. Gambas al Ajillo
A classic Spanish tapa, Gambas al Ajillo features succulent shrimp sautéed in a garlicky, spicy olive oil.
The aroma of garlic shrimp sizzling in the pan is enough to make your mouth water, while the heat from the red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick.
This popular tapas dish is best enjoyed with crusty bread for dipping in the flavorful oil.
2. Boquerones en Vinagre
These tangy, marinated white anchovies are a must-try for seafood enthusiasts.
Fresh Spanish anchovies are marinated in a blend of vinegar, olive oil, garlic and parsley, resulting in a zesty, mouthwatering dish.
Boquerones en Vinagre is perfect as a standalone tapa or atop a slice of toasted bread.
3. Pulpo a la Gallega
Hailing from the Galician region of Spain, Pulpo a la Gallega or Galician-style octopus, is a tender and flavorful dish.
The octopus is boiled, sliced and then dressed with olive oil, smoked paprika and sea salt.
The combination of smoky paprika and delicate octopus makes this a unique and delicious tapa.
4. Calamares a la Romana
A popular seafood tapa in coastal regions, Calamares a la Romana also referred to as Calamares Fritos, consists of tender squid rings coated in a light batter and fried to golden perfection.
Served with a side of tangy aioli or lemon wedges, the Spanish fried calamari bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
5. Mejillones en Escabeche
Mejillones en Escabeche is a Spanish dish featuring mussels marinated in a flavorful blend of vinegar, olive oil, paprika and other spices.
The mussels are first steamed, then combined with the marinade and allowed to rest for the flavors to meld together.
This tapa is best enjoyed chilled, making it a refreshing option on a warm day.
6. Almejas a la Marinera
A seafood tapas list wouldn’t be complete without a clam dish.
Almejas a la Marinera are tender clams cooked in a rich, tomato-based sauce with garlic, onion, white wine and parsley.
The briny Spanish clams and savory sauce create a symphony of flavors, perfect for dipping with crusty bread.
7. Tortillitas de Camarones
Originating from the Andalusian region of Spain, Tortillitas de Camarones are thin, crispy shrimp fritters.
The Spanish fritters are made with a mixture of shrimp, chickpea flour and various herbs and spices, then fried until golden and crunchy.
These delightful tapas bites make for an excellent snack or appetizer.
8. Salpicón de Mariscos
Salpicón de Mariscos is a refreshing, cold seafood salad that showcases a medley of seafood, including shrimp, mussels, and octopus.
Tossed with bell peppers, onion, tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette, this Spanish seafood dish is perfect for sharing on a warm day, as its bright flavors awaken the palate.
9. Gulas al Ajillo
Gulas al Ajillo, or baby eels cooked with garlic, is a unique and flavorful tapa.
Although the traditional version uses baby eels, imitation eels made from surimi can also be used.
The eels are sautéed in olive oil with garlic, red pepper flakes and parsley, resulting in a satisfyingly spicy and garlicky dish.
10. Pescaditos Fritos
Pescaditos Fritos, or small fried fish, is a popular tapa in coastal regions of Spain.
Small, whole fish are lightly coated in flour, then fried until crispy and golden brown.
Served with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of sea salt, these crunchy seafood bites are a delicious way to enjoy the ocean’s plentiful bounty.
11. Croquetas de Bacalao
Croquetas de Bacalao are creamy, flavorful cod croquettes that are a popular seafood tapa in Spain.
Made from a mixture of salted cod, béchamel sauce and Spanish spices, these croquetas are coated in breadcrumbs and then fried until golden and crispy on the outside, with a smooth and savory interior.
Served on small plates with a side of aioli or lemon wedges, Croquetas de Bacalao are a delicious and satisfying addition to any tapas board.
12. Navajas a la Plancha
Navajas a la Plancha, or grilled razor clams, is a simple yet flavorful seafood tapa that showcases the delicate taste and texture of razor clams.
These long, slender clams are grilled on a hot griddle with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, garlic and parsley.
Cooked until they open up and release their briny juices, Navajas a la Plancha are typically served with a splash of lemon juice and a sprinkle of sea salt, making them a delightful and unique tapas experience.
13. Zarzuela de Mariscos
Zarzuela de Mariscos is a traditional Spanish seafood stew that makes for a delicious tapa.
This dish features a variety of seafood, such as fish, mussels, clams, shrimp and squid, simmered in a rich and flavorful tomato-based sauce with onions, garlic and a touch of saffron.
Often served with a side of crusty bread for dipping, Zarzuela de Mariscos is a delightful and warming tapa that showcases the bounty of the sea.
14. Montadito de Anchoas y Pimientos
Montadito de Anchoas y Pimientos is a simple yet flavorful seafood tapa that features anchovies and roasted red peppers atop a slice of crusty bread.
The saltiness of the anchovies is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the roasted red peppers, while the bread provides a satisfying base.
Often drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with parsley, this seafood tapa is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s perfect for sharing.
15. Calamares en su Tinta
Calamares en su Tinta, or squid in its own ink, is a traditional and unique Spanish seafood tapa.
It combines simple ingredients of tender squid with a rich, dark sauce made from the squid’s own ink.
Calamares en su Tinta is popular in various regions of Spain, particularly in the Basque Country and Catalonia and can be enjoyed as a tapa or a main course.
Spanish Seafood Tapas: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Seafood tapas are a delicious and diverse way to experience the flavors of traditional Spanish cuisine.
From classic Gambas al Ajillo to refreshing Salpicón de Mariscos, these top Spanish seafood tapas offer a culinary adventure for seafood lovers.
Be sure to try these bite-sized dishes at your next tapas outing or even make them at home for a taste of Spain. Buen Provecho!
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Jorge Garcia is the founder of AmigoFoods, where he has spent over 20 years helping readers discover authentic Latin American and Spanish cuisine. Raised in a Cuban-American household, Jorge learned to cook at the hands of his mother and grandmother, carrying forward generations of family recipes. That heritage, backed by his family’s four-generation history in the Latin food industry, inspired him to launch AmigoFoods in 2003. With more than 1,000 published articles on recipes, ingredients, and food culture, Jorge’s mission is simple: make authentic Latin cooking approachable for home cooks everywhere while honoring the traditions behind every dish.