Peruvian-Inspired Tapas

Ingredients

While Spanish tapas are known for their variety of small plates, Peruvian cuisine adds its own unique touch by incorporating indigenous ingredients and flavors. This adaptation of tapas infuses traditional Peruvian ingredients such as quinoa, ají peppers, and native herbs, creating a fusion of Spanish and Peruvian culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Tapas, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (185g) cooked quinoa 1 cup (185g) cooked quinoa
• 200g fresh white cheese, cut into cubes 200g fresh white cheese, cut into cubes
• 1 avocado, sliced 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 ají amarillo pepper, deseeded and finely chopped 1 ají amarillo pepper, deseeded and finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 15g (7g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 22g (2g sugars)
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, white cheese cubes, avocado slices, red onion slices, and chopped ají amarillo pepper.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and gently toss to combine.
4. 4.
   Let the flavors meld together for at least 15 minutes before serving.
5. 5.
   Serve the Peruvian-inspired tapas at room temperature and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Quinoa — Rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness.
• Ají amarillo pepper — Use gloves when handling the pepper, as it can be spicy. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
• Avocado — Choose ripe avocados for a creamy texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For added crunch, sprinkle some toasted corn kernels (cancha) on top of the tapas.
• Experiment with different Peruvian herbs such as huacatay or culantro for a unique flavor profile.
• Serve the tapas with a side of Peruvian salsa criolla for an extra burst of freshness.

Serving advice

Serve the Peruvian-inspired tapas as an appetizer or as part of a larger spread of Peruvian dishes. They pair well with a refreshing pisco sour cocktail.

Presentation advice

Arrange the tapas on a colorful platter, garnishing with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a drizzle of olive oil for an enticing presentation.