6 Stunning Air Fryer Spanish Recipes Made Healthily And Quickly (2024)

With delicious easy Spanish meals in the air fryer, you can create mouthwatering paella, tortilla española and more. Spanish cuisine offers a range of delicious options.

And don’t forget tapas – small plates of amazing flavour perfect for sharing.

Read more about the history of tapas.

Air Fryer Patatas Bravas Recipe UK

What are Patatas Bravas?

Patatas Bravas, also known as Papas Bravas, is a classic Spanish dish that originated in Madrid. It is typically served as a tapa, which is a small dish that is shared among friends and family.

The name “Bravas” means “fierce” in Spanish, referring to the spicy sauce that gives the dish its bold flavour.

How to Make a Crispy and Flavourful Spanish Classic at Home

It consists of crispy fried potatoes that are topped with a spicy tomato sauce and a creamy aioli sauce.

While it may seem like an easy Spanish dish in the air fryer, getting the potatoes crispy and tasty can be a challenge.

This is where the air fryer comes in handy.

Using an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispy texture and bold flavour of traditional Patatas Bravas with minimal oil and effort.

Ingredients

You will need the following ingredients:

• 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• salt and pepper to taste
• 56g passata
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chilli powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 56g mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

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How to Make Air Fryer Patatas Bravas

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.

Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

In a bowl, mix the olive oil, salt, and pepper with the potatoes until they are evenly coated. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra flavour.

Step 4: Air Fry the Potatoes

Place the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.

The potatoes should be golden and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Step 5: Prepare the easy Patatas Bravas sauce

While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the sauce.

In a small bowl, mix the tomato sauce, smoked paprika, chilli powder, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.

In another small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and minced garlic until smooth.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the potatoes are cooked, transfer them to a serving dish.

Drizzle the tomato sauce over the potatoes and then add the aioli sauce on top.

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Sweet Potato Patatas Bravas

If you prefer you can use sweet potatoes for the Patatas Bravas.

Follow the same recipe for potatoes but substitute potatoes for sweet potatoes.

Air Fryer Hacks For Patatas Bravas

• Use a starchy variety of potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the best texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can prevent the potatoes from getting crispy.
• Shake the basket every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
• Experiment with different seasonings to find your favourite flavour combination.
• Serve the dish immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavours.

Air Fryer Twists On Classic Spanish Patatas Bravas Recipe

• Add diced chorizo or cooked prawns to the dish for a protein boost.
• Swap out the passata for a spicy salsa or harissa paste.
• Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a healthier twist on the classic dish.
• Top the dish with crumbled feta cheese or grated Parmesan for extra flavour.

FAQs

Can I use frozen potatoes for Air Fryer Patatas Bravas?

While fresh potatoes are recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen potatoes if that is all you have. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and air frying.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to use. Just stir it before drizzling over the potatoes.

Can I use a different type of oil for seasoning the potatoes?

You can use any oil that has a high smoke point, like vegetable oil or avocado oil.

Can I make this dish in a regular oven?

Bake the potatoes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes or until crispy and golden.

Air Fryer Tortilla Española -Spanish Omelette

What is Tortilla Española?

Tortilla Española is a classic dish from Spain that has been enjoyed for centuries.

It is a type of omelette made with potatoes, onions, eggs, and olive oil.

The dish is typically served as a snack or a light meal, and it is popular throughout the country.

The traditional version of tortilla española is cooked on the stovetop, but air frying is now a healthier and more convenient way to prepare this delicious dish.

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

How to Make Air Fryer Tortilla Española

1. Preheat your air fryer to 190 C / 380 F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until they are well whisked

3. Add the sliced potatoes, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper to the bowl and mix everything.
4. Add the olive oil to the air fryer basket and heat it for 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the air fryer basket and spread it out evenly.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the tortilla is set and golden brown.
7. Use a spatula to carefully remove the tortilla from the air fryer basket and transfer it to a serving plate.
8. Slice and serve hot or cold.

FAQs

Can I make tortilla española in a regular oven?

Yes, you can bake the tortilla in a preheated oven at 190C / 375F for 15-20 minutes or until it’s set and golden brown.

Can I make tortilla española ahead of time?

You can make the tortilla ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the air fryer before serving.

Can I use frozen potatoes for the tortilla?

While fresh potatoes are best, you can use frozen sliced potatoes that have been thawed and dried thoroughly.

Can I use a different type of oil for cooking the tortilla?

Use other oils such as vegetable oil or canola oil, but olive oil adds the most authentic flavour.

Can I freeze leftover tortilla española?

Freeze leftover tortillas in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the air fryer or oven before serving.

Air Fryer Gambas Al Ajillo

What is Gambas al Ajillo?

If you’re a fan of Spanish tapas, you’ll love Gambas al Ajillo.

Gambas al Ajillo, also known as Garlic Prawns in Garlic Sauce, is a traditional Spanish dish that originated in the southern region of Andalusia.

The dish is made by sautéing prawns in garlic and chilli-infused olive oil, resulting in a succulent and flavourful dish that’s perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

• 454g large prawns, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 red chilli, thinly sliced
• 59ml olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

How to Make Air Fryer Gambas al Ajillo

Here’s how to make Gambas al Ajillo step-by-step:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 200 C / 400 F.
2. In a bowl, mix the prawns, garlic, chilli, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Transfer the prawn mixture to the air fryer basket and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the prawns are cooked through and slightly charred.
4. Remove the prawns from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving dish.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips for Making Perfect Gambas al Ajillo

To ensure that your Gambas al Ajillo turns out perfectly, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Use high-quality prawns for the best flavour and texture.
• Don’t overcook the prawns, as they can become tough and rubbery.
• Adjust the amount of chilli according to taste. If you don’t like spice, you can omit the chilli altogether.
• Serve the Gambas al Ajillo hot, as it tastes best when freshly cooked.

Variations on Gambas al Ajillo

While Gambas al Ajillo is a delicious dish on its own, there are many ways to customize and experiment with the recipe. Here are some variations to try:

• Add chopped tomatoes or bell peppers for a colourful twist.
• Use different types of seafood, such as scallops or mussels.
• Experiment with different spices and herbs, such as paprika or thyme.

Serving Suggestions

Gambas al Ajillo is typically served as a tapa or small plate, along with other Spanish dishes.

It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family with a glass of white wine or sangria.

To complete your Spanish meal, serve Gambas al Ajillo with other classic tapas, such as patatas bravas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen prawns for Gambas al Ajillo?

Yes, you can use frozen prawns for this recipe, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

How can I make Gambas al Ajillo less spicy?

Just adjust the amount of chilli used in the recipe or omit it altogether if you prefer a milder dish.

Can I make Gambas al Ajillo ahead of time?

While Gambas al Ajillo tastes best when served fresh, you can make the garlic oil mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook the prawns.

What can I serve with Gambas al Ajillo?

Gambas al Ajillo is often served as a tapa or small plate and pairs well with other tapas dishes.

Can I use a different type of seafood for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of seafood such as scallops, mussels, or squid to make a delicious variation of Gambas al Ajillo.

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Air Fryer Croquetas de Jamón

What are Air Fryer Croquetas de Jamón?

Air Fryer Croquetas de Jamón are a Spanish-style snack that consists of a crispy outer shell made of breadcrumbs and a creamy filling made of béchamel sauce and diced ham.

They are typically served as tapas or appetizers.

By using an air fryer instead of deep-frying, the croquettes are cooked with less oil, resulting in a lighter and less greasy snack.

They are easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients, making them a popular choice for home cooks who want to recreate the taste of Spain in their own kitchen.

Making Croquetas de Jamón

If you’re ready to try making Air Fryer Croquetas de Jamón at home, here are the ingredients and step-by-step instructions you’ll need:

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium finely chopped onion
• 30g plain flour
• 250ml whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 68g finely diced ham
• 50g dried breadcrumbs or 30g fresh breadcrumbs
• 1 egg, beaten
• cooking spray

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Step-By-Step Instructions

How to make the béchamel sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the flour and whisk until combined.
4. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Add the salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and smoked paprika, and continue to whisk until the mixture thickens.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.

How to mix in the ham

1. Stir in the diced ham to the béchamel sauce until well combined.
2. Cover the saucepan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm.

How to shape the croquettes

1. Using a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop, form the mixture into small balls or log shapes.
2. Place the croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.

How to coat the croquettes in breadcrumbs

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk the beaten egg.
2. In another shallow bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
3. Take the frozen croquettes and dip them into the egg mixture, then roll them in the breadcrumbs until coated evenly.
4. Place the coated croquettes back on the baking sheet.

How to cook the croquettes in the air fryer

1. Preheat the air fryer to 200C /400F for 5 minutes.
2. Lightly coat the croquettes with cooking spray.
3. Place the croquettes in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy turn halfway through cooking time.
5. Serve hot with your favourite dipping sauce.

Tips for Serving Croquetas de Jamón

Now that you have your Croquetas de Jamón ready, here are some tips for serving them:

How to make a dipping sauce

You can make a simple dipping sauce by mixing mayonnaise with a dash of lemon juice, smoked paprika, and salt.

Alternatively, you can use tomato sauce or aioli.

What to serve with the croquettes

Croquetas de Jamón is usually served as tapas or appetizers.

You can serve them with a salad, olives, or other Spanish-style snacks.

How to store leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

You can reheat them in the air fryer or oven for a few minutes until crispy again.

Air Fryer Pisto

What is Pisto?

Pisto is a Spanish dish that originated in the region of La Mancha.

It’s made with sautéed vegetables such as onions, peppers, and tomatoes, and also aubergines and courgettes.

Pisto is typically served as a side dish, but it can also be a main course by adding protein such as eggs or meat.

Ingredients

• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 large tomatoes, chopped
• 1 courgette, chopped
• 1 aubergine, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 190C / 380F.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large bowl, mix the chopped onion, red and green bell peppers, minced garlic, chopped tomatoes, courgettes, and aubergines.

Add the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and olive oil.

Mix everything until the vegetables are coated in the oil and spices.

Step 3: Air Fry the Pisto

Once your air fryer is preheated, place the vegetable mixture in the air fryer basket.

Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and slightly browned.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once your Air Fryer Pisto is cooked, serve it as a side dish or as a main course with eggs or meat.

Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!

Tips for Making the Perfect Pisto

• Make sure to chop the vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
• If you want to reduce the cooking time, you can sauté the vegetables in a pan for a few minutes before putting them in the air fryer.
• Experiment with different spices and herbs to find your perfect combination.

FAQs

What can I serve with Air Fryer Pisto?

Serve Air Fryer Pisto as a side dish or as a main course by adding protein such as eggs or meat. Pair with crusty bread or rice.

Can I use different vegetables?

Yes, you can use any vegetables you like. Make sure to chop them into similar sizes for even cooking.

Can I make Air Fryer Pisto ahead of time?

Make Air Fryer Pisto ahead of time and reheat it in the air fryer.

Can I freeze Air Fryer Pisto?

Freeze Air Fryer Pisto in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Can I use different spices?

Experiment with different spices and herbs to find your perfect combination.

Air Fryer Paella

What is Air Fryer Paella?

Air Fryer Paella is a healthier twist on the classic Spanish dish.

Instead of cooking it over an open flame, it’s cooked in an air fryer.

This allows the rice to cook evenly and absorb all the flavours of the ingredients.

The result is a delicious and healthy version of the traditional paella.

Ingredients

• 200g Arborio rice
• 475 ml chicken stock
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of saffron threads (if available)
• 75g frozen peas
• 30g chopped fresh parsley
• 30g chopped fresh coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• lemon wedges

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Step-by-Step Guide – How to Make Air Fryer Paella

1. Preheat your air fryer to 190C / 380F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the Arborio rice and chicken stock. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
3. Chop the vegetables into small pieces then mix the chopped onion, red and green bell peppers, tomato, garlic, smoked paprika, and saffron threads in a separate bowl.
4. Add the vegetable mixture to the bowl with the Arborio rice and chicken stock. Mix well.
5. Pour the mixture into the air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. Add the frozen peas to the air fryer basket and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley, coriander, lemon wedges and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of rice?

While Arborio rice is the traditional choice for paella, you can use other short-grain rice varieties. However, keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.

Can I add seafood to my Air Fryer Paella?

Seafood, such as prawns or mussels, can be added to the paella for an extra burst of flavour. Simply add them to the air fryer basket in the last few minutes of cooking.

Can I make a vegetarian version of Air Fryer Paella?

Simply omit the chicken broth and substitute it with vegetable broth. You can also add extra vegetables, such as courgettes or aubergines, for a vegetarian option.

Can I add meat to Air Fryer Paella?

Add any leftover meat such as cooked chicken or beef in the last few minutes.

How do I store leftover Air Fryer Paella?

Leftover paella can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the air fryer before serving.

Can I freeze Air Fryer Paella?

While it is possible to freeze paella, the texture may be slightly affected when reheated. It is best to enjoy the dish fresh.