Half Baked Harvest's Spicy Pesto Pasta Alla Vodka

pesto pasta with vodka recipe

This silky, smooth and extra creamy Spicy Pesto Pasta Alla Vodka is the perfect cozy winter recipe. Fresh pasta tossed in a spicy tomato pesto vodka sauce that's creamy and so delicious! The secret to this one-pot pasta? Basil pesto and plenty of cheese on top. The pesto adds a vibrant layer of flavor and richness to this silky and smooth pasta. Serve this 30-minute dinner up any night of the week. It's delicious and looks pretty on any table…not to mention that everyone LOVES a GOOD creamy vodka pasta. This dish will be your new go-to.

So what does the vodka actually do?

The vodka adds a sharp bite that helps to balance out the sweetness of the tomatoes. When used in small amounts, the vodka will boost and intensify the aroma of the sauce. The key is to slowly simmer vodka into the sauce. This will release its flavors and cook out the alcohol.

If you prefer to not cook with alcohol, swap the vodka for chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even just water. That will be totally fine and your sauce will still be great.

All the spicy details…

This pasta is simple. I didn't go over the top with it but instead wanted to really focus on the traditional flavors of a great vodka pasta…garlic, tomatoes, and cream. The key is to slowly cook the garlic in oil. I learned this trick when I first started cooking from a friend of our family's, Mrs. Mooney, as I called her, and actually still call her to this day.

Mrs. Mooney taught me to slowly caramelize garlic in olive oil to really infuse flavor into a recipe, especially within an Italian-style red sauce. So, don't skip this step! Once the garlic is extra fragrant and turns golden, I like to stir in the tomato paste and chili flakes. Then cook those for a bit to really help intensify the flavors in the sauce.

Once that's cooked for a bit, stir in lots of cream. Then let the sauce simmer while you boil the pasta.

For the pasta, I just used short cut rigatoni (to be honest, it's really the best kind of short cut pasta I can find in my area). But use any short cut pasta you love or have on hand.

You'll want to first boil off the pasta, then just before draining reserve some of the pasta cooking water. This step is so important, so be sure to not dump the water before reserving a cup. The pasta water is used to finish the creamy vodka sauce.

Now add in some of the pasta cooking water and simmer the sauce until it has reduced down a bit and thickened. At this point, your kitchen is going to smell amazing. There should be hints of garlic and butter throughout…it's the best of Italian scents.

Once the pasta is cooked, toss it with the sauce and that pasta water. Add some butter and toss until the sauce is very creamy. Stir in the parmesan and basil. Immediately the heat from the pasta intensifies the smell of the basil…leaving you with nothing but excitement for dinner.

And trust me, you should be excited. Every bowl of pasta is creamy, just oh so slightly spicy, with a subtle pesto touch, and just the right amount of butter and cheese.

It's is so very good. Roll your eyes back, go for that second bowl, and finish the pasta all in one sitting, GOOD. Dramatic, but true.

The leftovers are just as delicious! You can prepare the dish in advance, keep it fully assembled in the fridge, and then bake before serving. I love dishes like this for holiday entertaining…they make life so easy!

You can even prepare the sauce way ahead of time, then just add the pasta before you're ready to serve. This would make a great dinner party meal with a side salad and some bread. Usually, I keep it simple with my 5 Ingredient Beer Bread or Salted Butter Parker House Rolls. It's one of those pasta dishes that's easily loved by all.

INGREDIENTS

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 shallot, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1-2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup vodka
  • 3/4 cup basil pesto, homemade or store-bought
  • kosher salt and black pepper
  • 1 cup heavy cream or canned coconut milk
  • 1 pound short cut pasta
  • 3 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil roughly chopped

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. When the oil shimmers, add the shallot, garlic, and oregano. Cook until the shallots begin to caramelize, about 5 minutes. Reduce the heat to low, add the tomato paste and red pepper flakes, cook 4-5 minutes, until thickened. Stir in the vodka, cook another 2 minutes. Stir in the pesto and cream. Season with salt and pepper. Keep warm over low heat.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Just before draining, remove 1 1/2 cups of the pasta cooking water. Drain.
  3. To the vodka sauce, add the pasta, 1/2 cup pasta cooking water, and the butter, tossing until the butter has melted. Add the parmesan and basil. If needed, thin the sauce with additional pasta cooking water.
  4. Divide the pasta among plates and top with basil and cheese. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

To Replace the Vodka: use an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth.

To Make Ahead: prepare the alla vodka sauce through step 1. The sauce can be made 4 days ahead of time and chilled in the fridge. To serve, warm on the stove, follow the directions through step 2.

To Freeze: the alla vodka sauce can be made, then frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw, then use as directed.

Tune into the Teach Me Something New podcast Wednesday 2/24 when Half Baked Harvest's Tieghan dishes on all things food with Brit.

This article was originally published on Half Baked Harvest. This post has been updated.

I think we can all agree that cheese turns pretty much any meal into an instant winner. I mean, have you ever met a grilled cheese you didn't like? And mac and cheese is always a treat, especially when it's homemade. But fresh mozzarella – whether melted on pizzas or eaten atop a salad – stands above the rest. These 24 fresh mozzarella recipes will rescue you from boring dinners for good!

Chicken, Pesto, and Mozzarella Panini

Kitchen Swagger

Fresh mozzarella, gooey and melted, is the glue that holds this panini together. It adds a milky richness to the pesto, chicken, and tomato stuffed inside. (via Kitchen Swagger)

Cheesy Cabbage Casserole

Give Recipe

Okay – the mention of cabbage can be *a little* off-putting to most – but just trust us on this one. In this gooey, comforting casserole, the crispy veg soaks up tons of moisture and delicious flavor to the point where you won't even realize it's cabbage anymore. (via Give Recipe)

Skillet Meatball Parm Recipe Using Fresh Mozzarella

Brown Eyed Baker

Skip the basic subs altogether and make this skillet meatball Parm instead. It’s topped with *loads* of fresh mozzarella and a generous sprinkle of fresh basil. (via Brown Eyed Baker)

Butternut Squash Stuffed Shells

The Girl on Bloor

Using the fall season as your *only* excuse to eat butternut squash is overrated. You can surly enjoy it anytime of year – more specifically, in this hypnotizing stuffed shells dish. Each tender noodle gets packed full with a creamy fresh mozzarella cheese sauce and turkey sausage filling. (via The Girl On Bloor)

Pepperoni Pizza Sliders

Countryside Cravings

Faster than ordering a pizza for delivery, these pepperoni and mozzarella sliders are great for a crowd. Just assemble and bake for a quick and satisfying dinner! (via Countryside Cravings)

Kugel Arancini

Amanda Wilens

These kugel bites are full of a tasty, ultra-cheesy noodle filling on the inside, while their exterior remains crispy and crunchy. Taking flavors inspired by Italian arancini, these bite-sized snacks are truly unforgettable (and a tad addicting, too). Pair with a rich marinara dipping sauce for the full dining experience! (via Amanda Wilens)

Oven-Baked Pizza Dip with Mozzarella

Rachel Mansfield

Screaming. Crying. Salivating. All for this devilishly cheesy pizza dip! All it asks of you is to pile the necessary ingredients into a baking pan, pop it into the oven for 20 minutes (yes, only 20!), and dig *right* in with your dipping vessel of choice. For us, we'll have to go in with some super crispy bread! (via Rachel Mansfield)

Italian Meatball Hero Sandwich

Sugar Love Spices

You’ll want a ridiculously fluffy roll to soak up the delicious sauce that the meatballs in this sandwich were simmered in. Arugula adds a peppery bite, and milky mozzarella adds the ultimate finishing touch. (via Sugar Love Spices)

Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Cakes

The Endless Meal

Graciously give your leftover mashed potatoes a new life using this easy potato cakes recipe! When you lightly pan-fry each disc, the fresh mozz on the inside becomes miraculously melty, while the crust gets oh-so nice and crispy. Because who doesn't love potatoes + cheese?! (via The Endless Meal)

Balsamic Burger Recipe Using Fresh Mozzarella Cheese

Life Tastes Good

Creamy, mild mozzarella helps balance out the tangy balsamic vinegar in this burger recipe. It’s much more exciting than the classic ketchup-mayo combo your OG burgers may be used to. (via Life Tastes Good)

Baked Spinach Artichoke Dip

Cozy Cravings

Spinach artichoke dip is one of the best apps ever. Step yours up using a decadent combo of fresh mozzarella and cream cheese, so each scoop you get is covered in cheesy goodness. (via Cozy Cravings)

Roasted Tomato and Artichoke Grilled Cheese

The Merry Thought

Add some sophistication to your favorite ‘wich with fresh mozzarella, sweet roasted tomatoes, and artichokes. (via The Merry Thought)

Marinated Mozzarella Melon Skewers

Half Baked Harvest

These skewer snacks are *perfect* for a fancy summertime soirée. The pesto-soaked balls of fresh mozzarella are a delightfully surprising complement to the watermelon, cantaloupe and honeydew additions, providing a light flavor that refreshes you amid the warm weather. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Skillet Chicken and Mozzarella

3 Scoops of Sugar

Chicken, marinara, and mozzarella make up a classic trio in this skillet-based meal. But what makes it *different* than the rest are the chunks of crusty bread sprinkled throughout the dish to soak up all that delicious flavor. (via 3 Scoops Of Sugar)

Italian Pasta Salad

Feel Good Foodie

Pasta salad is nothing short of a delectable and dependable dish for the summer season. Though you can really make any variation you want on the recipe, this chilled pasta salad that gets tossed in fresh mozz and veggies is definitely one you'll keep coming back for. It's extremely bright, plus it's good for you! (via Feel Good Foodie)

White Pizza With Prosciutto and Blue Cheese

Hunger Thirst Play

Fresh mozzarella and blue cheese join forces in this white sauce pizza. Salty prosciutto and sweet caramelized onions add tons of complex flavor that you can't get anywhere else. (via Hunger Thirst Play)

Creamy Gnocchi Bake

The Fast Recipe

*Three* types of cheeses get infused into this ultra-tender gnocchi bake, which we could never complain about. It gives everything we'd ever want from a comfort dish – rich red sauce, pillowy pockets of pasta, and stretchy, stringy cheese. Plus, it only takes 20 minutes to prep, so you can get to munchin' quickly. (via The Fast Recipe)

Broccoli and Mozzarella Gratinata

Art of Natural Living

Here’s a sure-fire way to make eating green veggies more... palatable. Bake them along with cherry tomatoes and plenty of mozzarella until tender and drowning in melted cheese. (via Art Of Natural Living)

Kimchi Mac and Cheese

Takes Two Eggs

Some contemporary Korean dishes use fresh mozzarella cheese to adorn their delights in melty madness. (While writing this, we can totally feel the Korean hot dog cravings kicking in.) This kimchi mac and cheese takes on the traditional spice and umami that most other meals do, but with a cheesy twist we cannot resist! (via Takes Two Eggs)

Tomato, Mozzarella, and Prosciutto Pasta

Nourish And Fete

Served warm or cold, you can’t really go wrong with this fancy pasta. It’s made with tomatoes, mozzarella, prosciutto, and other gourmet ingredients that form a fantastic flavor. (via Nourish And Fete)

Stone Fruit Caprese Salad

Most Hungry

Fresh mozzarella pairs *exceptionally* well with stone fruits like peaches, plums, and apricots, thanks to its delicate flavors and creamy textures. This easy recipe combines them all into a fancy summer caprese that gets drizzled in a fantastic blend of balsamic and mint! (via Most Hungry)

Caprese Pizza

The Redhead Baker

This caprese pizza makes for a filling meal that somehow tastes light at the same time. Pesto, tomatoes, and basil add a summery freshness to the pie, while fresh mozzarella keeps things feeling decadent. (via The Redhead Baker)

Easy Cheesy Baked Ravioli

Salt & Lavender

Subdued mozz meets strong Parmesan in this simple pasta bake! Garlic and marinara flavors swim throughout the noddles and ground beef so that each forkful you take is enhanced with deep savory tastes. (via Salt & Lavender)

Pasta Caprese

Foodtasia

Jazz up your usual weeknight pasta with the addition of tomatoes, pesto, and fresh mozzarella. One bite, and you’ll see that these ingredients were made to go together. (via Foodtasia)

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This post has been updated.

Lead image via Most Hungry

I enjoy every single aspect of a vacation: planning, packing, even the journey itself. But there are few things I love more than settling into a flight with my favorite snacks and a movie. Figuring out exactly what to watch can feel like a hassle when there are dozens of movies to pick from, which is exactly why the Brit + Co team rounded up our favorite airplane movies to watch when you jet off on your own vacay!

Crazy Rich Asians

Warner Bros. Entertainment

Crazy Rich Asians is arguably the best airplane movie of all time (even if some airplanes have started removing it — a travesty!). The story follows Rachel, who joins her boyfriend Nick in Singapore for a wedding...then realizes he's the country's most eligible bachelor. It's got everything we want in our own holiday, including romance, travel, and incredible food.

Ocean's Eight

Warner Bros. Entertainment

I've lost count of how many times I've seen this movie, and it's always a good choice when you want a fun watch! Powerhouse women who team up for the ultimate New York City heist? The Met Gala? Rihanna, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, and Mindy Kaling? Count me in.

Eat Pray Love

Sony Pictures Releasing/Columbia Pictures

Even if your summer vacation doesn't include a trip to Italy, your airplane movie can. Eat Pray Love stars Julia Roberts as Liz, a woman who heads to the other side of the world for some soul searching after she realizes how loveless her marriage is. As expected, there's some very tasty food.

Mamma Mia!

Universal Pictures

Mamma Mia really is the gift that keeps on giving. It's an incredible birthday movie, bachelorette party movie, and airplane movie, all in one. The story follows Sophie, who invites all three of her mother's exes to her wedding to figure out which one is her father. And, naturally, they all sing ABBA the entire time.

Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants

Warner Bros. Entertainment/Dungaree Productions

For a nostalgic movie that's all about friendship, growing up, and learning how to stick up for yourself, you HAVE to watch The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, which follows Bri, Carmen, Tibby, and Lena. The girls send a single pair of jeans to one another during their first-ever summer apart.

Under the Tuscan Sun

Touchstone Pictures

Diane Lane stars as Frances, a writer who's in serious need of inspiration after her divorce. But instead of going on her own vacation or trying a new dish, she decides to buy a house in Tuscany for a change of scenery. No big deal!

The Devil Wears Prada

20th Century Studios

Fashion, New York City, and the '00s are always a recipe for success, which is why The Devil Wears Prada is one of my favorite airplane movies. Anne Hathaway stars as Andy, whose life get turned upside down when she starts working for magazine mogul Miranda Priestly.

Barbie

Warner Bros. Entertainment

Margot Robbie's Barbie movie follows the titular doll, who has to navigate the real world when her life in Barbieland starts falling apart. Not only did it become THE movie moment of 2023, but it's also an emotional, fun, and colorful summer movie we want to watch all the time.

Crazy, Stupid, Love

Warner Bros. Entertainment

If you want to laugh out loud on your flight, then Crazy, Stupid, Love is definitely the airplane movie you want to choose! It perfectly executes its multiple storylines, and the ensemble cast (which includes Emma Stone, Ryan Gosling, and Steve Carrell) are pure magic together.

Harry Potter​

Warner Bros. Entertainment

There are few things more comforting than Harry Potter, so if you suffer from in-flight nerves (you're not alone TBH!!), then opt for this classic story about a boy who learns he's a wizard.

What are your favorite airplane movies to watch when you travel? Let us know on Facebook!

Lead image via Warner Bros. Entertainment

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 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?

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?

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?

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

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 Brit + Co)

Baked Churro Chips

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

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

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 Brit + Co)

Chicken Pineapple Skewers

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

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 Brit + Co)

Eggplant Moussaka

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 Brit + Co)

Triscuit + Cherry Tomatoes + Mozzarella Cheese + Spicy Chili Flakes

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)

Vegan Grazing Platter

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

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)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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)

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Lead image via Barley & Sage.

This article has been updated.

POV: You're on day 5 of your hair wash routine, and you're trying to decide whether to dry shampoo, or just try to do a slick back bun that you know will take you forever to get right. With option A, you're left with talc-like texture and heavy buildup in your hair, and option B, you're left nervous that the tight hairstyle might not help your hair thinning.

But what if I told you there were dry shampoos that didn't leave behind all that that heavy residue and buildup? What if there were a dry shampoo that felt lightweight and easy, so you could get ready in 5 minutes? Believe it or not, these actually exist, so you don't have to worry about resorting to that hour-long slick back bun process anymore! I've tried and tested these dry shampoos — some of them being completely talc-free — to give you the easiest hair routine in the morning! Here are the 8 I recommend.

Crown Affair

Crown Affair Dry Shampoo

I was gifted this product a few weeks ago, but I can say that I genuinely have fallen in love with it, and I can't wait to purchase it as it runs out. It's a nontoxic, refillable dry shampoo that comes in powder form. This dry shampoo is incredibly lightweight and blends into my roots seamlessly — so much so, that I forgot I even used it! One of my favorite dry shampoos I've used in recent years. Plus, it's an Allure Best Beauty Product Award-Winner, so you know it's good! Definitely worth the hype!

Vegamour

Vegamour Dry Shampoo

This product is an award-winning dry shampoo, not only because of it's ability to make your hair looks freshly washed, but also because of all the volume it adds to your hair. It makes your roots look fuller and more lifted than before, so you'll get a refreshed do with a little height for the day! It's a great product if you're looking for more volume in your roots alongside a more typical dry shampoo.

Amazon

Batiste Dry Shampoo

This dry shampoo is extremely effective and extremely affordable — it's only $6! I've been using this for years because I go through my dry shampoo really fast, so it's nice to have a cheaper alternative that I can go through quickly and not worry about it being too expensive. Plus, it smells amazing! You'll have fresh hair in no time!

Amazon

Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo

Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo is completely talc-free, so it doesn't have the annoying buildup that a lot of dry shampoos cause. It's designed to completely get rid of excess oil that may accumulate in your hair and on your scalp. It's a great, lightweight option that won't weigh your hair down.

Amazon

Moroccan Oil Dry Shampoo

This dry shampoo is designed with lighter toned-hair in mind! It helps to blend in seamlessly with your lighter hair color, so you don't have traces of dry shampoo left behind for everyone to see. An added bonus with this one? It protects against UV damage! This is a huge plus for me as someone who is very sensitive to UV rays — especially on my scalp. The scent of this dry shampoo is just divine, as well! Grab this one to be protected, look fresh, and smell nice while you're at it.

Amazon

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day

Not only does this eliminate any oil, smell, or buildup, but it's also silicone-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free and cruelty-free — which is very rare in beauty products these days. Add this dry shampoo to your cart immediately to get the job done in a safe and sustainable way, because this product really cleans your hair.

Amazon

Dryer Detox Dry Shampoo

Anyone can use this product because it works effectively for all hair types! It smells so good, and genuinely cleanses your hair. I love to use it on my blowouts because it helps to make my hair looks clean, but also give it that voluminous, bouncy curls that I'm looking for. This one is a favorite of mine that I savor for more special occasions!

Amazon

Kristin Ess Dry Shampoo

We've got an option for all my ladies with darker tones as well, don't you worry! Another amazing aspect to this one is that it's infused with Vitamin C oil which is good for shine, making your hair look healthy, and keeping it from appearing too chalky. Lucious locks are on the way with this dry shampoo!

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Lead image via Crown Affair

If you’re eating according to the Mediterranean diet, sometimes it can be hard to sneak a snack in here and there without having to track down something that abides by the diet’s guidelines first. Luckily, there are a ton of Mediterranean diet-friendly snacks out there that you can simply buy from the store and enjoy on-the-go easily!

These 10 snacks will totally transform your snacking game – from savory to sweet, these picks satisfy any kind of craving while keeping it all healthy and delicious, per the Mediterranean diet.

Amazon

Mariani Mediterranean Dried Apricots

These dried apricot bites make the perfect sweet treat to snack on during the workday. They're nutritious, but also so delicious.

Whole Foods

Cedar's Foods Feta Dip

Cedar's Foods carries tons of tasty Mediterranean dips, but their Feta Dip reigns supreme for me. It's just the right amount of tangy and cheesy and goes wonderfully with some crisp pita chips!

Amazon

Simple Mills Veggie Pita Crackers

These pita crackers are made from a unique vegetable-based flour to deliver a third of your daily recommended intake of veggies in a single serving. They hit any crunchy craving with ease, while still being healthy for you!

Amazon

Kitchen & Love Chocolate Covered Almond Stuffed Dates

These dates are stuffed with almonds then coated in a decadent layer of 85% dark chocolate that balances everything out beautifully. You're gonna have a hard time not downing the whole bag in one sitting.

Amazon

Oloves Natural Whole Pitted Olives Variety Pack

Olives are undeniably Mediterranean, and these little packs make snacking on them on-the-go super easy. They come in flavors like Basil & Garlic, Lemon & Rosemary, and Chili & Oregano to keep your snack rotation lively.

Target

Good & Gather Red Pepper Hummus

Don't forget the hummus! It's always a great Mediterranean diet snack to have in the fridge since it's flavorful and filling, thanks to protein-rich chickpeas. This Target pick is flavored with red pepper, but you can find all sorts of different tastes at any grocery store.

Amazon

Brami Lupini Beans Snack Variety Pack

Think of lupini beans as the very-Mediterranean take on edamame. These crunchy, dried snacking legumes are slightly pickled and seasoned before being packaged, so you get all that good flavor when it's finally time to dig in. Every serving is 0 calories and has 0 grams of net carbs, so you're not sacrificing a single thing with this selection.

Amazon

Stretch Island Black Forest Fruit Strips

Since the Mediterranean diet is all about getting in tons of veggies and fruits, these purely fruity strips will fit right in. They're low-calorie and low-sugar, so you can ideally enjoy a few of 'em during each snack sesh.

Target

DeLallo Greek Feta Salad

This feta cheese salad incorporates two types of olives, oil, and spices, so it's a little bit heartier. I've eaten it as a pre-dinner snack many times. It goes super well with crispy toasted bread, or you could even enjoy it on its own if really briny foods are your vibe.

Amazon

365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil + Sea Salt Popcorn

Olive oil plays a big role in the Mediterranean diet, whether it's used as a cooking agent or a topping. In this case, it's used to pop some amazingly light popcorn that's finished off with the ideal amount of sea salt. Yum!

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