All we have to do is browse our favorite social media platform and we’ll come across a plethora of trending-food-days such as #MeatlessMonday #SundaySupper and #TacoTuesday. These are all lovely, of course. However, I’d like to propose we adopt a new one… #TapasTuesday.

What are tapas?

The word “tapas” originated in Spain and basically means appetizer or snack. They can be hot or cold as a regular appetizer… however I like to make tapas as an entire meal occasion.

Let me explain why tapas are the perfect meal.

Tapas are a perfect simple meal.

If you ever find yourself struggling to figure out “what’s for dinner” tonight, the answer is always to keep it simple. Yes, that may mean calling up the pizza delivery guy…  however the simplest answer probably is in your fridge, freezer, and pantry.

Tapas are perfect for dinner because you use a little bit of this and a little bit of that. 

In other words, leftovers! 

Small bites! 

Pretty dishes! 

Comfy couch! 

Follow this simple plan for your #TapasTuesday.

If you have ever struggled with meal planning and WISH that you could master it, then #TapasTuesday is for you. It basically plans itself!

Here’s how it works:

1. Plan it out. 

This means open up your fridge and see what leftovers you have that can be incorporated into something else. Remember to think small bites. Next, do the same browsing in your pantry and freezer. Make a list so you can feel super on top of it! Go you!

2. Start with a fun drink. 

This can be a mocktail, cocktail, or even water served in a beautiful glass, poured from that darling pitcher your Aunt Peggy left you.

3. Prep your tapas. 

Remember step 1? Leftover proteins make great quesadillas and because it’s small-bites we’re after, one quesadilla can feed a family because it’s all about a variety of small bites. Tapas prefer not to be complicated, so think easy easy easy.

4. Use those gadgets. 

Do you have an air fryer? Popcorn popper? George Forman panini maker? These are PERFECT for tapas! I like to use my air fryer for small bites because it does small batches and clean up is a snap. Then again, a stovetop is always a simple choice.

5. Multi-task.

 Since tapas are small bites, multiple sheet pans can cook in the same oven, and sauté pans can be reused after a simple wipe clean. The goal is to create LESS WORK and have MORE FUN on #TapasTuesday.

6. Kick back and enjoy. 

Okay, dim the lights and strike a match to those candles and hurricane lamps. Music is always acceptable and if you happen to be close to a campfire or fireplace, it doesn’t get much better than that!

Insider tip: Netflix has great virtual campfires and fireplace scenes, complete with all the delightful crackles and pops!

Are tapas something you would consider serving as an entire meal?

Keep it simple, my friend.

Lyndi