Spanish tapas

Appetizer

Item Rating: 59/100

1 serving (100 grams) contains 250 calories, 8.0 grams of protein, 18.0 grams of fat, and 15.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)

Calories		595.2
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		42.9 g	55%
	Saturated Fat	11.9 g	59%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		71.4 mg	23%
Sodium		1428.6 mg	62%
Total Carbohydrates		35.7 g	12%
	Dietary Fiber	4.8 g	17%
	Sugars	4.8 g
protein		19.0 g	38%
Vitamin D		23.8 mcg	119%
Calcium		238.1 mg	18%
Iron		3.6 mg	20%
Potassium		476.2 mg	10%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

Fat: 386 cal (63.8%)

Protein: 76 cal (12.6%)

Carbs: 142 cal (23.6%)

About Spanish tapas

Spanish tapas are a diverse selection of small dishes or appetizers originating from Spain, often enjoyed as a social meal. They may include olives, almonds, cured meats like jamón, cheese, seafood, and vegetables, reflecting the diverse regional ingredients and culinary traditions of Spanish cuisine. Nutritionally, tapas can provide a mix of macronutrients and micronutrients depending on the ingredients, with options offering protein (e.g., from meats or seafood), healthy fats (from olives and olive oil), fiber (from vegetables), and essential vitamins like B12 and C, as well as minerals like calcium and magnesium from cheese and nuts.

Health Benefits

• Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats from olives and olive oil, which support heart health and reduce bad cholesterol levels.
• High-quality protein in seafood and cured meats helps maintain muscle mass and repair tissues.
• Vegetable-based tapas provide dietary fiber and vitamin C, supporting digestive health and immune function.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains nuts, seafood, dairy

Suitable for: Mediterranean diet, low-carb diets

Not suitable for: Vegan diets (many include animal products), low-sodium diets (due to cured products)

Selection and Storage

Store cooked tapas in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Olives and pickled items can be kept longer if safely brined.

Common Questions About Spanish tapas Nutrition

What is the nutritional content of Spanish tapas?

Spanish tapas vary greatly depending on the dish but are often high in healthy fats (from olive oil), moderate in protein, and can be calorie-dense due to ingredients like cured meats and cheeses. For example, a serving of patatas bravas can contain up to 300 calories while a small portion of gambas al ajillo offers about 120 calories and 15g of protein.

Can I eat Spanish tapas on a keto diet?

Yes, many Spanish tapas are keto-friendly, such as gambas al ajillo (shrimp in garlic oil) and albondigas (meatballs without added breadcrumbs). However, avoid carbohydrate-heavy options like patatas bravas or bread-based tapas if following a strict keto diet.

Are Spanish tapas healthy?

Spanish tapas can be healthy, as they often incorporate ingredients like olive oil, seafood, and vegetables that provide healthy fats, omega-3s, and antioxidants. However, some options, like fried croquettes or dishes high in sodium from cured meats, should be eaten in moderation to avoid excessive calories or sodium intake.

How many tapas should you eat per serving?

A typical portion may involve 3 to 4 tapas dishes for a meal, depending on hunger levels and size of the dishes. For appetizers, 1 to 2 small plates should suffice. It's important to balance lighter options with heavier ones to ensure a nutritious serving overall.

How do Spanish tapas compare to other small plate cuisines?

Unlike other small plate cuisines, Spanish tapas emphasize bold Mediterranean flavors with ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and paprika. Tapas also offer more seafood-based dishes compared to Italian antipasti or Greek meze, but fried items and cured meats may be similar across these cuisines.

Data Sources & Scientific References