Embark on a culinary adventure through Argentina’s vibrant streets, where the cuisine is as rich as it is flavorful. From the bold flavors of charcuterie to the savory delights of Picada and Provoleta, Argentine appetizers are designed to tantalize your taste buds. With an array of meaty and cold options, these snacks are perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a party or looking to elevate a fancy dinner.
Let us guide you through 11 mouthwatering Argentinian appetizers that will leave you wanting more.
Huevos Rellenos
In Argentina, Huevos Rellenos – Spanish for ‘stuffed eggs’ – is a beloved dish that offers a fascinating twist on traditional deviled eggs from the United States and England. The defining feature of these deviled eggs is the incorporation of tuna in olive oil, which imparts an unmistakable flavor profile. This unique combination yields a creamy, slightly tangy taste experience, punctuated by a smooth mouthfeel.
When served as a snack or appetizer, Huevos Rellenos proves to be a delectable and innovative take on the classic deviled egg, well worth exploring.
Empanadas Mendocinas
There’s an undeniable allure to empanadas, a culinary delight that transcends borders. The perfect combination of crispy exterior and savory interior makes them hard to resist. But what sets Empanadas Mendocinas apart is their rich cultural heritage as a traditional Argentinian staple. The recipe itself is a masterclass in flavor, featuring a filling packed with tender beef, smoky paprika, caramelized onions, creamy hard-boiled eggs, and the subtle tang of olive, oregano, and seasoning.
These empanadas are more than just a snack or street food – they’re an experience that will leave you craving for more, yet still satisfying your cravings.
Ensaladilla Rusa
Ensaladilla Rusa, the Spanish version of potato salad, has an intriguing history. Although its name may suggest Russian origins, the dish was actually brought to Argentina by Russian immigrants and became a staple at deli gatherings. Typically served as an appetizer alongside cold cuts and cured meats, this salad’s recipe is surprisingly straightforward.
A medley of ingredients including carrot, potato, hard-boiled eggs, tuna, olives, roasted peppers, peas, and mayonnaise come together to create a rich, creamy, and textured delight. The roasted red pepper adds a subtle smokiness that elevates the dish, making it an excellent addition to any summer BBQ or gathering.
Mollejas Tacos
In Argentina, Mollejas Tacos – also known as sweetbread tacos – are a beloved street food staple often served as an appetizer. Contrary to their name, these tacos don’t contain any sweet bread ingredients. Instead, sweetbread refers to the cow’s thymus glands, which might sound unusual but yields a surprisingly delicious flavor. The recipe is straightforward and hearty, much like traditional tacos.
The only challenge lies in sourcing the sweetbread itself – simply visit your local butcher store to get started.
Picada
Imagine an Argentinian-inspired charcuterie board on steroids! Our Picada recipe takes store-bought ingredients to the next level, offering a unique blend of flavors and textures to explore. What sets it apart from our other charcuterie boards is the inclusion of unexpected delights like potato chips, crusty French bread, creamy olive and pepper paste, luxurious pate de foie gras, savory sardines, and an array of traditional cheeses.
This generous board is perfect for feeding a large crowd at your next gathering.
Bread & Chimichurri
Imagine a match made in heaven – crispy garlic bread paired with tangy, spicy chimichurri sauce. This Argentinean-inspired combination is a game-changer when it comes to snacks and appetizers. The simplicity of making your own garlic bread and having this flavorful dip on hand elevates the experience even further. With each bite, you’ll be treated to a harmonious balance of garlicky goodness, spicy kick, and satisfying crunch, all in one delightful package.
Provoleta
Provoleta is a decadent delight that combines the richness of Provolone Cheese with the pungency of herbs. This savory treat is often crafted by baking or melting the cheese with oregano and spices, then served piping hot alongside crusty bread and tender meat. As a renowned appetizer and side dish, Provoleta is commonly paired with steak, roasted vegetables, and other hearty fare.
What sets this recipe apart is the satisfying crunch of the cheese’s caramelized top layer, which gives way to a creamy, cheesy interior packed with an abundance of herby flavors. And the best part? It’s just as delicious served over plain pasta as it is on its own.
Rabas
Rabas, Argentina’s beloved beer-batter fried Calamari rings, tantalize taste buds with an extra layer of flavor courtesy of garlic and parsley. Served with a squeeze of lime on the side, this staple dish is often found in cozy cafes and pubs across the country. While they may seem familiar to those from other parts of the world, Rabas boasts a unique twist that elevates them beyond what’s commonly found at home.
The crispy exterior gives way to succulent, flavorful interior, making it an impossible-to-resist treat. So good, in fact, you might find yourself trading in your old recipe for this Argentine classic.
Panchos Argentinos
Panchos Argentinos, also known as Argentinian Hotdogs, boast a distinctive twist with the incorporation of Salsa Criolla – a tangy condiment that elevates their flavor profile. This savory sauce is crafted from a medley of ingredients, including tomatoes, onions, green bell peppers, olive oil, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar. While it may appear slightly watery at first glance, rest assured the bun will effectively absorb the flavors, resulting in an unparalleled gastronomic experience.
To recreate this culinary delight, all you require is a straightforward combination of plain all-beef hot dogs, buns, and a homemade Salsa Criolla – a recipe perfect for your next backyard BBQ or casual gathering.
Medialunas
Argentinian medialunas, also known as crescent rolls, are a beloved breakfast and snack item. These flaky, buttery treats are often enjoyed with a steaming cup of coffee or served alongside a pat of butter, despite their already-rich flavor profile. The key to their indulgent taste lies in the brioche dough, infused with subtle notes of lemon and vanilla, which is carefully shaped into crescent rolls.
While crafting these medialunas from scratch requires patience and dedication, the end result is well worth the effort. Once you’ve mastered the art of making them at home, there’s no going back to store-bought alternatives.
Sandwiches De Miga
Among the most iconic sandwiches we’ve had the pleasure of trying, Sandwich De Miga stands out as a masterpiece. Its simplicity belies a depth of flavor that’s both surprising and delightful. These on-the-go delights can be found at street vendors and bakeries throughout Argentina, making them an absolute must-try for anyone visiting the region.
At its core, the recipe is all about combining a medley of ingredients – eggs, ham, cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, red bell pepper, mayo, and a squeeze of lime juice – in a way that’s both harmonious and tantalizing. While traditional Sandwich De Miga recipes typically use molded and compressed white bread to create perfect rectangles and squares, the good news is that you can still achieve amazing results with plain white bread.
The bottom line
Argentina’s cuisine is a reflection of its vibrant culture and people. The country’s traditional dishes and specialties are a testament to its rich heritage, and its appetizers and snacks are no exception. Full of flavor and tantalizing aromas, Argentinian cuisine will leave you craving for more. We’ve curated a selection of 11 mouthwatering appetizers and snacks that showcase the country’s unique take on familiar flavors.
From surprising twists on classic dishes to innovative fusions, each recipe is a celebration of Argentinian culinary creativity. We’d love to hear from you – which one will you try first? As you embark on this gastronomic journey, remember to Happy cooking and eating! Let us take you on the adventure!
