This Somali-American Representative Was Harassed on Her First Visit to DC

Minnesota made history in November by electing the first ever Somali-American to their state’s House of Representatives. As if Facebook’s reminder of how crappy this year has been wasn’t bad enough, we are shocked to hear that Ilhan Omar, the hijab-wearing Minnesota state rep elected this year, was harassed on her first official visit to DC.

Omar took to her Facebook account on Wednesday to recount what happened when she headed to the White House, attending a meeting about policy. Her cab driver (who she doesn’t give any information about) called her ISIS, threatened to remove her head scarf and lobbed sexist remarks at her.

This must have been SO SCARY for Ms. Omar. Her family fled Somalia before coming here as refugees. Hopefully, sharing like this in order to shame racists into keeping their hateful ideologies to themselves will help protect women who choose to wear head coverings. With a rash of violent attacks against hijabis on the rise in the country, now more than ever, it’s important to speak out against racism.

How have you fought back against racism? Tell us @Britandco!

(h/t Refinery29.com. Photos by Stephen Maturen/Getty)

On the same day Reese Witherspoon's book club announced it's 101th pick, the actress and entrepreneur excitedly shared she's also co-writing a book with Harlan Coben! I don't know what readers across America have done to deserve this, but we welcome the news with open arms. Reese has a keen eye for choosing invigorating reads — and turning them into fantastic projects beyond the page — so it totally makes sense she's putting her experience to good use by partnering with one of the world's creative mystery and thriller book authors.

Here's everything we know about one of the best pieces of news to come out of 2025.

Where did Reese Witherspoon share her book announcement?

Instagram/reesewitherspoon

Reese Witherspoon shared the news with eager fans on Instagram by posting a photo of herself smiling next to Harlan Coben. Based on their wide grins, they seem eager to be able to share this secret. We're only calling it that because there's no way we could've predicted Reese would be one-half of a writing duo next year!

She said, "To say I am a fan of Harlan’s body of work is a massive understatement… the fact that he found my idea for this thriller intriguing enough to want to partner with me on it as co-author is a dream becoming a reality," (via The Hollywood Reporter). Harlan followed up with, "Be it acting, producing, creating and even book-club selecting, Reese’s instincts about storytelling across all media are unrivaled."

Authors Lucy Foley and Stacy Lee both expressed excitement with both of them expressing how much they "can't wait to read" the upcoming book.

What's the book about?

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Since the book won't be published until next fall, details aren't readily available. We can suspect that it'll be a mystery or thriller book based on Harlan Coben's previous body of work. Still, we can't wait to devour what's sure to be a gripping story!

How long has Reese Witherspoon been working on her book? 

Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for Hello Sunshine

Reese Witherspoon held Hello Sunshine's Shine Away event over the weekend where she dished about her upcoming book with Harlan Coben. "I had the idea two years ago and then I approached Harlan Coben probably eight months ago and I was like, ‘Am I crazy?’ He said, ‘This is a really good idea Reese,’ so I knew I was onto something," she told the attentive audience (via The Hollywood Reporter). Eventually, Reese and Harlan "started brainstorming together" which resulted in them co-writing the book together.

Though she's shocked Harlan "agreed" to co-write the book with her, Reese trusts Harlan's judgement and creativity because she feels "he's an incredibly accomplished writer." According to her, it's been "really fun to collaborate" together.

Is Reese and Harlan's book available for preorder? 

Amazon

Sort of! The official cover for Reese and Harlan's book hasn't been released yet, so fans will have to imagine what to expect in the mean time. You can preorder it now if you're not one to judge a book by it's cover!

How many books has Harlan Coben written?

Shane Anthony Sinclair/Getty Images for the NTAs

New York Times bestselling author Harlen Coben has written 32 books that have over 80 million copies in print (via Harlan Coben). He has two more books on the way, including the title he's writing with Reese Witherspoon. In order, the books are:

Upcoming Books

Have any of Harlan Coben's work been adapted for TV or film?

Netflix

Yes! Harlan Coben's books have been adapted into several TV series. Here's a full list of them!

Will Reese and Harlan's book be adapted for TV?

Erin Simkin/Hulu

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the answer is yes! Reese and Harlan are still working out the details of the character so we'll have to wait a little longer to learn more about it!

While you wait for Reese Witherspoon and Harlan Coben's new book, revisit the amazing work Hello Sunshine has been doing!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

If you're throwing a tapas party and don't want to spend the entire night in the kitchen, look no further than these tapas recipes. They're yummy small plates of food to be shared among your guests. These smaller servings, typically of unique cuisines, can be a great way to try something new and really impress your foodie friends that always want a little bite!

Most of these tapas recipes come together in no time, which can be super helpful if you lean toward procrastinating the daunting task of hosting. To get you started, we've got the 56 best easy and authentic Spanish tapas ideas. And don't forget — these babies taste even better when paired with a pitcher of sangria!

What are the 3 types of tapas?

Sascha Weber / PEXELS

The three types of tapas include cosas de picar (finger foods), pinchos (which require something like a toothpick to eat), and cazuelas (little dishes served in a sauce).

What are some typical tapas foods?

Valeria Boltneva / PEXELS

Tapas foods are usually served in smaller portions, but they're all delicious. You can serve everything from olives and fried cheese to chorizo and sweet baked churro chips.

What do you serve at a tapas party?

RDNE Stock Project / PEXELS

There are a variety of foods you can serve at a tapas party, but our favorite tapas menu includes jalapeño poppers, fried cheese, savory canapés, and stuffed olives. We love a fig and bacon jam crostini, too!

Our Favorite Tapas Recipes To Share With The Whole Party

Vegan Italian Sausage Hand Pies

Plant Provisions

The only thing better than a new pizza recipe is when that pizza is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. These pies are totally delicious and feature a mouthwatering mix of vegan sausage, vegan cheese, and potatoes. (via Plant Provisions for Brit + Co)

Baked Churro Chips

Brit + Co

Steer away from tradition by making some churros into chips. They’re easy to make in big batches, and they’re even easier to dip into mocha-fudge sauce, caramel sauce or whipped cream. The fact that they're on the sweeter side is a great for switching things up in the tapas department. (via Brit + Co)

Triscuit + Cucumber + Mint + Feta

Brit + Co

A salty Triscuit cracker, paired with refreshing cucumber and bright mint? Sign us up, like, right now. This quick recipe makes for a refreshing tapa that your guests are sure to enjoy. (via Brit + Co)

Blistered Shishito Peppers

Forks & Foliage

Your tapas menu just got a serious upgrade with this recipe. The peppers get blistered over high heat for some massive flavor, then team up with some burrata and olive oil to mellow out the spice. (via Forks & Foliage for Brit + Co)

Chicken Pineapple Skewers

Brit + Co

Sweet meets savory in this top-tier tapas recipe. The skewered meat + fruit allows for such easy snacking! (via Brit + Co)

Chocolate-Covered Cheese Bites

Parmigiano Reggiano

You'd be surprised at just how well sharp cheese and dark chocolate work together! This is definitely one of the most unique tapas recipes we've ever tried, but the combo is so worth it. (via Parmigiano Reggianofor Brit + Co)

Eggplant Moussaka

Forks & Foliage

Moussaka, a tasty compilation of eggplants, garlic, onion, and chickpeas, is an unforgettable tapas menu item. It's vegan by nature, and meant to be served cold for hot summer days! (via Forks & Foliage for Brit + Co)

Triscuit + Cherry Tomatoes + Mozzarella Cheese + Spicy Chili Flakes

Brit + Co

The cherry tomatoes and spicy chili flakes in this tapas food will taste amazing together, especially when you have cheese to cut the tart spice! (via Brit + Co)

Bacon Pastry Twists

Brit + Co

Everyone will be in a twist over how tasty these pastry snacks are! (via Brit + Co)

Smoked Salmon Bites

Brit + Co

Smoked salmon elevates cracker bites to the max.(via Brit + Co)

Baked Brie

Ron Lach / PEXELS

Baked brie is one of the best finger foods to share with your friends. Make sure everyone gets a bite by setting out a baked brie platter complete with crackers, chips, honey, and jam. (via Brit + Co)

Stuffed Mushrooms

Brit + Co

Stuffed mushrooms are one of the best tapas recipes around, because they're painfully easy to make. They're also easily customizable via the filling, so you can switch it up each time depending on the occasion or theme of the get-together you're going to. (via Brit + Co)

Vegan Grazing Platter

The Edgy Veg

Everyone will want a bite from this colorful grazing platter. It's got veggies, it's got fruit, it's got nuts. You can also add in vegan cheeses, mushrooms, hummus — whatever floats your boat. (via The Edgy Veg)

Seared Tuna with Manzanilla Olive Tapenade

The Endless Meal

This bite may look super involved and fancy, but we promise you it's as simple as tapas recipes get. Sear some fresh tuna before using it to top cucumber slices that pair with a delicious homemade tapenade. (via The Endless Meal)

Spinach + Chickpeas (Espinacas Con Garbanzos)

Spanish Sabores

This spinach and chickpea stew is popular in Seville, Spain. Aside from the delicious flavors, the best part about this recipe is definitely the fact that it only takes half an hour to make! The ingredients are all healthy, too, which allows you to eat as much as you'd like to. (via Spanish Sabores)

Chorizo, Manchego, and Olive Skewers

My Modern Cookery

These honey-drizzled skewers embody the rich, fresh flavors of Spanish foods. They're a total fireworks show in your mouth. The best part is there is absolutely no cooking required! They're so easy to put together and can be customized to you and your guests' preferences. (via My Modern Cookery)

Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Bites

The Edgy Veg

For a rounding out a delicious and savory tapas menu, you can't go wrong with these cheese-stuffed garlic bites! They're super easy to make, and you can pair them with any dipping sauce. (via The Edgy Veg)

Fig and Bacon Jam Crostini

Barley & Sage

Smear goat cheese on some toasted baguette slices, add bacon jam and fig slices, and drizzle with honey (or hot honey) to make these tapas. This fresh flavor combination is nothing like you've ever tasted before. It's sure to wow your guests, due its delectable and complex flavor palette. (via Barley & Sage)

Garlic Shrimp with Lemon and Parsley

Spain on a Fork

This simple lemon-garlic shrimp is sure to satisfy. Serve with toothpicks for spearing or crusty baguette slices for dipping. P.S. this is a great dish to pair with some white wine! (via Spain on a Fork)

Spanish Tortilla with Burrata and Herbs

Half Baked Harvest

This recipe using potatoes, eggs, fresh herbs, prosciutto, and burrata is the perfect addition to your tapas dinner party menu. It's simple to make, but the flavors are oh-so complex. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Mushroom Croquettes

Cilantro and Citronella

Croquetas de jamón, AKA logs of ham coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden, are easy to find at most tapas bars in Spain. These bites are filled with mushrooms and made with non-dairy milk, so even your vegan friends can enjoy them! (via Cilantro and Citronella)

Squash Cornbread Mini Muffins

Chef Bai

These cornbread tapas are made with squash to boost your bite with tons of nutritional value, and their size makes them the perfect finger food for sharing with others. They're sweet, yet super savory! (via Chef Bai)

Pan Tumaca

Cilantro Parsley

This tapas recipe originates from old Spanish tradition of finding ways to reuse crusty bread. Adding tomato and olive oil will soften up your crust to be topped with flavorful meat and spiciness! (via Cilantro Parsley)

Fried Cheese Curds

Culinary Hill

Fry some cheese curds in your oil of choice, and this tapas finger food is ready to be enjoyed! Get ready to make a big batch, though, because these crunchy, creamy bites are addictive! (via Culinary Hill)

Chorizo Al Vino Tinto (Chorizo in Red Wine)

Caroline's Cooking

The red wine in this dish gives an extra layer of flavor that you just cannot miss. This recipe tastes delicious with both mild and spicy chorizo, so it's a great option for everyone. They're also super light, which makes them perfect to serve before a larger meal. (via Caroline's Cooking)

Brie Stuffed Crispy Baby Potatoes

Half Baked Harvest

Potatoes at a party are always a win. These brie-stuffed potatoes are unbelievably delicious and provide an elevated take on a classic potato recipe. The addition of truffle oil seriously just pushes these over the edge in terms of flavor. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Bacon + Goat Cheese Pops

The Endless Meal

Make this finger food an easy hack by using skewers to serve them! You'll get a mouthful rich with sweet and savory notes. (via The Endless Meal)

Spanish Cheese Board Easy Tapas Dish

My Kitchen Love

This easy tapas recipe allows you to cover all of your flavor bases on a single board instead of making multiple small plates. This tapas assortment is a yummy twist on the modern charcuterie, and is full of Spanish cheeses, meats, grapes, olives and flavorful spreads. (via My Kitchen Love)

Watermelon Salad with Feta, Cucumber, and Basil

Rachel Mansfield

Keep things fresh and fruity with this unique combination of flavors! This chilled tapas recipe will hit different during the summer, as it's a relaxing and refreshing bite. (via Rachel Mansfield)

Bruschettas

Signature Concoctions

This take on a classic bruschetta bite can take your tapas party so much further, displaying a range of flavors from spicy to sweet. There are so many different ways to customize them that you can bring them out time and time again and your guests won't ever get tired of them! (via Signature Concoctions)

Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Cozy Cravings

These delicious, tapas-worthy chicken wings are prepared in the air fryer, making prepping for a party so much easier. Everyone won't be able to get enough of the spicy, citrusy flavors! (via Cozy Cravings)

Chicken Empanadas Tapas Recipes

Food with Feeling

Because no one ever complained about chicken, cheese, and carbs – and we're not about to start. This genius tapas idea takes under 30 minutes to prepare and each bite is filling enough that you wouldn't need to serve much else! (via Food with Feeling)

Vegetarian Jalapeño Poppers

Live Eat Learn

You'll want to eat tons of these flavorful bites! Get into the crunch with these baked jalapeño poppers. This tapas recipe has the perfect amount of spice that will allow all of your guests to enjoy bite and bite again. (via Live Eat Learn)

Spanish-Style Tomato and Butter Bean Dip

Fresh Off the Grid

This addictive tapas party dip is so simple, you can even make it on a camping trip! Don't be fooled by the simplicity though, it's still delicious AF. You can pair it with pita chips or sourdough bread for a treat that's sure to impress. (via Fresh Off the Grid)

Gambas al Ajillo

A Spicy Perspective

This spicy shrimp tapas recipe can be used to toss with pasta or served on skewers! The choice is yours. They're packed with garlic, arbol chile, and sherry flavor that makes it a standout dish on a big tapas spread. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese and Pecans

The Cookie Rookie

These four-ingredient bites are both crispy, chewy, and creamy all at once. They'll add some flavor and texture variety to your tapas menu! (via The Cookie Rookie)

Mini Quiche

Culinary Hill

Quiche recipes are always a hit, so why not make them bite-sized for your tapas party? You can take this recipe in so many different ways to produce some truly unique flavors. This has got to be one of the best tapas recipes out there. (via Culinary Hill)

Chickpea Cranberry Lettuce Wraps

Chef Bai

Make entertaining a crowd super simple with these fresh lettuce wraps. You'll get a mouthful of sweet cranberry, but also some savory notes. These tapas pack in tons of nutrition, though you'd never guess it. They're high in fiber and low in fat, making them great to even just make as a snack for yourself! (via Chef Bai)

Pan Con Tomate

A Spicy Perspective

This snack is common in Spain, and just one of the easiest ways to make tapas recipes. Fresh, oily, and garlicky, we could never pass up pan con tomate. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Flank Steak with Goat Cheese on Toast

Steamy Kitchen

Grilled flank steak and roasted red pepper sit atop creamy goat cheese and crusty bread, but the real kicker is a roasted fig and onion jam that adds a perfect touch of sweetness. (via Steamy Kitchen)

Blistered Padrón Peppers

What's Gaby Cooking?

Olive oil, salt, lemon juice, and heat transform these Spanish peppers into a party-worthy tapas food. Your guests will be blown away by how much punch these little peppers pack. (via What’s Gaby Cooking?)

Zanahorias Saliñadas Tapas Recipe

Tara’s Multicultural Table

These vibrant pickled carrot slices, served in olive oil and parsley, make a refreshing accompaniment to heavier, meatier tapas. (via Tara’s Multicultural Table)

Spanish-Style Meatballs

Grab a Plate

Meatballs are a welcome guest at any tapas party. These small bites are made with spicy chorizo, a Spanish staple. And, don't be surprised by their tiny size – these easy meatballs are big on flavor. (via Grab a Plate)

Heirloom Tomato, Basil, and Manchego Toast

Half Baked Harvest

If your tomatoes are in-season, you'll want to make this mother of all tapas recipes: tomato-manchego toasts topped with basil. They look gorgeous, so they're super fit to serve at a tapas celebration! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Two-Minute Olive Tapenade

Mommy Musings

Black olives, capers, and olive oil make one salty spread that you’ll hungrily smear on endless baguette slices during your tapas party. (via Mommy Musings)

Fried Calamari with Cilantro Aioli

Baker by Nature

Looking for a tapas dish with a little wow factor? Behold this simpler-than-you-think squid appetizer. The aioli dipping sauce is sooo good, you're going to be making these again and again. (via Baker by Nature)

Pan-Fried Cauliflower

Just a Little Bit of Bacon

Quick-fried cauliflower is a healthier alternative to fried cheese or meat, but it still tastes indulgent. One of the best parts of this tapas recipe is that you can fry it a few hours ahead and throw the pieces in the oven to get crispy again. (via Just a Little Bit of Bacon)

Balsamic Roasted Grape and Brie Crostini

Barley & Sage

Toasted baguette slices are topped with brie, balsamic roasted grapes, and toasted pecans along with balsamic glaze, thyme, and black pepper. It's like a party of flavors in your mouth! (via Barley & Sage)

Broccoli and Cheese Hand Pies

Feel Good Foodie

Handheld snacks are just a massive 'yes' from us. These hand pies are packed with cheese and broccoli to deliver the most satisfying bite. If you're a fan of broccoli + cheddar soup, you're going to love this tapas recipe. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Sriracha Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Half Baked Harvest

Again, you could never go wrong with prepping cauliflower bites as far as tapas recipes go. This easy recipe leverages that Buffalo flavor we all know and love! It is one of the most flavorful and easy tapas you can whip up. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Mexican Tortilla Roll-Ups

Culinary Hill

These roll-ups are perfect for snack time, and easy to make with simple ingredients so that even little ones at your tapas party can enjoy! They're zesty, cheesy, and packed with flavor. (via Culinary Hill)

Caprese Crostini

Salt & Lavender

These garlicky caprese crostini melts are a delicious crowd-pleaser that is low-effort for the host! The crispy baguette paired with the sweet tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and balsamic drizzle makes for a fantastic tapas treat. (via Salt & Lavender)

Whipped Feta, Corn and Zucchini Crostini

Live Eat Learn

Whipped feta cheese sits atop a crunchy crostini to balance out all of the comforting flavors of this tapas recipe. It's perfect for a snack, a party finger food, or an appetizer before a big meal. (via Live Eat Learn)

Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms

Culinary Hill

These tasty stuffed mushrooms are buttery and savory and can be prepared in less than 30 minutes! The ingredients are superior and include two types of cheeses, scallions, and artichoke hearts. (via Culinary Hill)

Roasted Cauliflower Bites with Mint Dip

Salt & Lavender

Try something a little bit different and whip up some cauliflower to be dipped in this fresh mint concoction. It takes less than 30 minutes and is vegetarian-friendly! (via Salt & Lavender)

Spinach Artichoke Cups

Rachel Mansfield

This tapas recipe is like the classic dip, but even better. It's ready in 15 minutes and is made with all gluten-free ingredients, allowing you to accommodate your guests' varying dietary needs. (via Rachel Mansfield)

Join our newsletter for more tapas recipes and appetizer ideas, and check out our cooking and baking classes for more inspo!

This article has been updated.

We've all had those moments where our hair is simply... untamable. It seems like nothing you do, or no product you try can help it. That's me almost every morning when I wake up. My split ends are more noticeable, the breakage is showing, and I have kinks in my hair that last for days. So sometimes, the only solution is to simply use hot tools.

I try to minimize my hot tool use to strictly days like this where I know nothing else will work — and that's where flat irons will save the day. Sometimes, a flat iron is the only product that makes my hair look shiny, nice, and let's be honest: presentable. I've tried quite a few, and these are the best, most popular options that give your hair life. And some even do a better job than my Dyson Airwrap can on most days, so let's get into it!

Heat Protectant

Amazon

Chi 44 Iron Guard Heat Protectant

Before we get into the actual flat irons of it all, I want to make sure we all add this heat protectant to cart and click check out, because heat protectant is so important when using hot tools! This heat protectant is one I've been using for years, because of how well it works. It protects even the hottest of tools from your hair, and gets bonus points for being insanely affordable. Like $4 affordable... So definitely grab this one immediately and make sure to use every time you put heat on your hair.

Flat Irons

Amazon

Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron

I'm a simple woman — I see over 29,000 good reviews on a product, and I click "purchase." It's as simple as that. This flat iron from Conair has such good reviews, that you'll definitely want to try it out for yourself. It has a longer plate than most flat irons, helping to cover more of your hair with each swipe. So, if you've got a lot of hair like I do, then this is definitely the best choice for you.

Amazon

ADOBIRD Cordless Straightener

As someone who travels a lot, an on-the-go straightener is essential. It's something I didn't even know I needed until realizing that my normal straightener was such a hassle to bring places, given the size, and annoying cords. This flat iron is the perfect carry-on size, and it still heats up in seconds, so I don't have to take too long before heading out on whatever adventures I have planned that day. And don't worry — this cordless flat iron also comes with a charging cord, so you don't have to worry about a dead battery while you're out and about!

Amazon

Remington Hair Straightener

This Remington flat iron is good for so many reasons — especially how hot it can get! But another great plus to this hot tool is that it's infused with argan oil and keratin, so as you're using it you're actually helping your hair rather than hurting it. This will replace your damaging and harsh flat iron immediately after trying it. It's genuinely such a good product, boasting 14,000 reviews to prove it.

Amazon

Rozamor Professional Flat Iron

One thing that's so important to me is a flat iron with adjustable temperature settings, because I don't always want to use a lot of heat on my hair. Some days my hair requires less, and sometimes it requires more — it just depends on how unruly my hair is at the moment — so having this setting if super important! It's also titanium, which helps to prevent tugging or ripping of your hair! We love the sound of that!

Amazon

CHI Original Ceramic Flat Iron

This is the OG flat iron that I've used for so long, and there's a reason why. It is dependable, consistent, and doesn't damage my hair as much as other flat irons. The CHI original leaves my hair looking and feeling so soft. I'm telling you right now, this flat iron will last you years and years, because mine definitely did!

Amazon

Babyliss Pro Hair Straightener

All my thin hair girlies, listen up: I've got the product for you! This straightener is ideal for those with super thin hair, because of its slim size and shape. It makes it super easy to finish your hair in a rush without a lot of wrist pain, given how light it is. Sounds like a dream to me!

Amazon

Vanessa Pro Flat Iron

This straightener is amazing for getting straight, sleek hair — but also curls! It's made out of titanium which makes for a really smooth surface that can give you the best curls, because it doesn't tug too harshly on your hair or cause any weird kinks in your hair like a lot of straighteners do. Love that for a versatile styling moment!

Subscribe to our newsletter for more picks!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations