Baked Chickpeas and Chorizo

I've always thought Chickpeas (garbanzo beans) and Chorizo are such a lovely partner for each other and I often make variations of this baked dish throughout the year.

In late summer, chopped up courgette (zucchini) is great, tomatoes make a saucier addition.  You can use "cooking" chorizo sausages as well.

This might not sound appetising but go with me.  As the chorizo or sausages cook, they naturally let out some oils into the dish which coat the vegetables with paprika scented gorgeousness.  Trust me, this is great as a tapas dish, side dish or even a main.

Chickpea and chorizo tapa

This tapa was inspired by a dish I had in Andalucia a couple of years ago; Seville maybe?  I've made my own tweaks.

One thing I love about eating foods in different countries is how you can see the history in the local meals.  The prevalence of spices, rice, chickpeas etc in Spanish cooking is a legacy of Roman and North African occupations over the years being absorbed into the culture.  It's the same with language, every similarity and difference is a sign of the past.

Hake with Chorizo

I bought some delicious hake from my local supermarket recently.  Hake is not a fish we eat a lot of in the UK but the fillet looked in beautiful condition and I had some chorizo in the fridge.  Hake is one of the most loved fishes in Spain and I can see why with it's firm, flaky flesh.

This is a very simple recipe made after a long hard day at work.

Tomato and Anchovy Salad

This is a very simple starter, side dish or light main course using lovely marinaded anchovies.

I first had anchovies like this in Spain so in my head I always want to call them boquerones (which is just the Spanish for anchovies which isn't very helpful) but they often sell them in deli counters or sometimes in the chill cabinet in film covered trays or small tubs.  Don't buy the anchovies in tins, they're great on a pizza or in pasta, not so good for a salad.

Great New Years Eve Nibbles

I'm currently trying to think of a menu for tonight so I thought I'd share with you some ideas I was having.

First plan, pakoras.  These are great because I can cook them earlier then reheat them when I'm ready (much better than hot fat when prosecco might have been involved and smells much better.)

The only downside is what to go with them?  Have a sit down meal with dhal and chicken tikka or go for a full on nibble fest?  Well scroll down for some more suggestions but in the meantime, let's continue with the appetisers.

Tempura

I love tempura, it's not healthy, it's not good for you (all that frying) but after a morning run, what could be better for Friday?  Let's make it Fry-day this week!  This can either be a great fish dish or vegan depending on your preferences.  Both are great.

Assiette of Tomatoes

Tomatoes are lovely at this time of year, the perfect combination of sweetness, a touch of acidity with the perfume of summer.

My home grown tomatoes are finally at their fragrant best.  Resisting the urge to just eat them as they are or with the merest drizzle of olive oil and vinegar (delicious though that is), I decided to get a bit poncy.  Sorry, but I love tomatoes so much I decided to make myself an assiette of some of the most delicious ways to eat them.

Pea and Ham Frittata

Frittata is a fab thing to use up the stuff in your fridge.  It's great warm or cold and fantastic for a picnic.

This is a vastly simplified version from most recipes which is a bit like a baked omelette but imagine it more as a quiche without the pastry.

I've used frozen peas but if you would like to use fresh, go for it, just cook them lightly first.

Serrano ham wrapped prawns

I had some lovely serrano ham in the fridge, prawns in the freezer and it got me to thinking of how I could marry the two to come up with a lovely tapas style dish.

Chickpea and Chorizo Salad

A delicious and quick salad of warm chorizo and chickpeas with rocket and tomato.  This was after a long day at work and very quick to make.

Pan con Tomate

I love pan con tomate (or pa amb tomaquet) when I'm on holiday.  It elevates the most humble sandwich or toast to something so much more.

Prawn Tapas

A lovely little dish of prawns for an evening nibble or starter for one or a delish little amuse bouche for you and your loved one.

Chorizo and Prawn Skewers

Chorizo and prawns, is there a better combination?  I love prawns, I love chorizo, I mean what's not to love?