We get it, sangria is a party all on its own (a Spanish wine-based punch made with red wine, fruit, and often brandy), but the right side dish takes it to the next level.
From savory bits to fresh bites, there's a whole spectrum of accompaniments that perfectly balance the fruity notes of your favorite drink.
Our experiences led us through a whirlwind of flavors, leaving a bunch of delicious stories to share. So, buckle up, grab your glass, and get ready to munch on the ultimate sangria companions!
Top 13 Side Dishes for Sangria
Here are 13 of the best side dishes to serve with sangria, based on our taste tests and recommendations from our foodie friends:
1 - Manchego Cheese with Marcona Almonds
We're talking Manchego cheese (a Spanish sheep's milk cheese), and boy, does it pair well with a fruity sangria.
This Spanish cheese meets Marcona almonds, which are richer and softer than regular almonds.
It's a combo that hits the spot every time.
Remember, Manchego comes in different ages. Younger is milder, while an aged one packs more punch.
We dig slicing this beauty into small, easy bites. Throw some almonds on the side.
Simple yet sophisticated - also great alongside cauliflower cheese side ideas for rich pairings.
2 - Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Shrimp tacos (made with white-fleshed shrimp like Gulf or Pacific). They're simple, they're quick, and they're great with sangria.
We grill the shrimp until it's just right. Toss on a warm tortilla.
Add avocado or salsa, your call.
An easy prep with high returns - see grilled salmon side pairings for summer menus.
Sprinkle some lime and cilantro on top.
Fun to eat and even better to share. A laid-back dish that feels fancy.
Keep napkins handy, it gets messy and it's all part of the fun.
3 - Prosciutto and Melon Skewers
We snagged these skewers at a party once and haven't stopped. Prosciutto (a dry-cured Italian ham) has a saltiness that hits just right.
Pair it with melon for a contrast that's unbeatable. This dish is a taste combo that's hard to beat.
Cut melon into chunks, wrap with prosciutto. It's easy and quick.
Serve ice cold (about 40°F) for the best experience. The juicy melon brings out prosciutto's boldness.
Handy for snacking.
Ideal for casual gatherings. Not messy, no fuss, just good.
4 - Paella Valenciana
Alright, who's hungry? We're all eyes on Paella Valenciana.
This dish is a Spanish classic. Looks fancy, real simple to prep.
We use saffron rice (saffron from Crocus sativus), deliciously golden. Chicken, rabbit join the party.
Add a mix of green beans, red peppers. Hit with a dash of rosemary.
Cooked slow. Tastes amazing.
The texture? Perfect balance of soft and crispy.
Share it at gatherings or keep it all - see paella side suggestions for sharing.
Pass the spoon!
5 - Spanish Tortilla
This dish is not your average tortilla. We're talking layers of thinly sliced potatoes and onions (traditionally about a 2:1 potato-to-onion ratio), bound together with eggs, and cooked to golden perfection.
It's like a potato pancake but so much better.
Serve it sliced into wedges; pair with Spanish tortilla side options for tapas-style meals.
It's a simple comfort dish that never fails to impress.
Versatile enough for breakfast, lunch, or as a tapas treat, it definitely earns a spot on our list.
6 - Chorizo-Stuffed Dates
Ever thought we'd be speechless over dates? Picture this: chorizo (a smoked Spanish pork sausage seasoned with pimentón) inside a sweet date.
It's spicy, savory, sweet in one bite.
Wrap with bacon for more flavor. It's like a little snack revolution.
We bite into the crisp bacon, then hit the soft date. The chorizo surprise?
Oh, it's there. Your palate notices everything.
These appetizers work for any hangout. We say chill them before serving to enhance every bite.
Keep them coming, we can't quit this combo.
7 - Patatas Bravas
We're dishing out Patatas Bravas-crispy potatoes with a saucy attitude; pair with patatas bravas side pairings for tapas spreads.
Think of a punchy bite that makes the perfect sidekick to a chilled drink.
Cut potatoes, fry until they're golden stars. Spice it up with smoked paprika (pimentón de la Vera).
Drizzle zingy sauce over the hot fries. Bites are small, easy to munch.
We dig the contrast of textures. Packs a tasty whammy in every bite.
8 - Grilled Artichokes with Lemon Aioli
Grilled artichokes (globe artichokes, a thistle in the Asteraceae family), anyone? This dish isn't fancy, just tasty.
We char them nicely. They get smoky, bringing out a new layer of flavor.
Squeeze some lemon.
Feels fresh.
Our hack? Dip in lemon aioli - similar to grilled sausage side ideas for backyard feasts.
Creamy and tangy together. Simple but effective.
Grilled till tender. Friends always reach for them.
Easy to share.
Artichokes might seem tricky. Truth?
Much easier than expected. Stick them on a grill.
Result: bite-sized joy. Easy cleanup after.
Great for swaps. Trust us, they deliver.
9 - Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with Pita
Roasted red pepper hummus is not just your average dip. It's creamy with a sweet and smoky kick.
We blend roasted peppers with chickpeas (about a 1:3 pepper-to-chickpea ratio).
Adds that wonderful color. Easy to whip up.
Grab a can of chickpeas, roasted peppers, toss in food processor. We like to serve it with warm pita.
Adds a nice touch. Spread it on flatbreads, or dunk veggies.
It's versatile.
We can munch all day. Try drizzling olive oil on top. Enhances the flavor.
10 - Serrano Ham Croquettes
We roll Serrano ham (a dry-cured Spanish ham) into crispy croquettes. Crunchy outside, savory surprise inside.
These bites are tiny delights.
We whip them up quickly. Fry them golden alongside sangria.
Ideal way for afternoon snacks.
Tip: Pair with aioli for dipping. Smack of flavor that's too good to miss.
We devour them instantly.
They're simple, homely, scrumptious when shared. Our gatherings often include these.
They're quick bites to impress guests.
11 - Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo)
Alright, so we're talking Garlic Shrimp, or as the Spanish say, Gambas al Ajillo. This dish is about garlicky shrimp in olive oil with a pinch of chili.
It's that simple.
We cook the shrimp fast. Gotta avoid that rubbery texture.
The key? Fresh shrimp (16-20 count per pound); frozen won't cut it here.
Pro tip: plenty of fresh parsley on top. Adds freshness.
Here's the deal: heap this on crusty bread to soak up the oil. Shrimp's ready in minutes; it's a show-stopper, folks!
12 - Gazpacho
Gazpacho's the cool cat of soups. It's chilled and zesty.
Starts with a tomato base (typically ripe Roma or vine tomatoes).
We throw in cucumbers and bell peppers. Blend smooth.
Add garlic for that kick. It's fresh.
Great for summer days. We keep it in the fridge.
Cools us down fast. Easy to prep.
We recommend ripe tomatoes. They boost the flavor. Serve in cups or bowls.
Each sip refreshes.
Tangy bite lingers. Surprising side dish.
Works as an appetizer too. Enjoy it cold.
13 - Spinach and Feta Empanadas
Spinach and Feta Empanadas are our pocket-sized delights. We wrap these flaky bites, packed with spinach's earthy vibe and feta's salty richness (feta is a brined sheep's milk cheese).
Quick snack?
Check. Dinner party dish?
You bet.
Personal tip: bake these for crisp, not fry. Heat control is our secret.
These never hang around long. Need a hack?
Freeze them for impromptu cravings. Easy peasy!
Spices tweak the flavor. Nutmeg?
Adds warmth. Customize to your palate.
Tailored goodness wrapped in pastry. Simple, satisfying, we appreciate their flexibility.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.
