There’s no better way to enjoy a match than getting together with friends or family around a good meal. Whether it’s a final, a decisive match or any World Cup fixture, the appetisers take centre stage before the kick-off. The key is to choose dishes that are easy to share, full of flavour and with that Mediterranean touch we love so much. If you want to surprise your guests, here you have how to prepare the best snacks for watching football.

CHARCUTERIE AND CHEESE PLATTER

There are some classics that never fail. A platter of Iberian ham, pork loin, chorizo, salchichón and a selection of mature and semi-mature cheeses is perfect for nibbling on throughout the match. Serve it with breadsticks, rustic bread, olives and nuts to add some variety. As well as being a very Spanish appetiser, it requires hardly any preparation and is always a hit with guests. All you need to do is arrange the ingredients attractively on a wooden board to achieve a result worthy of any celebration.

SPICY CHIPS AND CROQUETTES

If there are two tapas that epitomise Spanish cuisine, they are patatas bravas and croquettes. You can make some potatoes in the oven or in an air fryer and serve them with a homemade brava sauce and a dash of aioli. Round off the starter with ham, chicken or porcini mushroom croquettes, crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. They’re easy to serve, almost everyone loves them, and they let you enjoy the match without any hassle in the kitchen.

MEDITERRANEAN SKEWERS AND SPIT-ROASTED MEATS

Skewers are a practical, colourful and very appetising option. Combine olives, Manchego cheese, cherry tomatoes, anchovies, gherkins or boquerones on small skewers to create flavourful bites. You can also make small open sandwiches with Spanish omelette, ham or cheese to offer more variety. These are light bites that are quick to prepare and add that Mediterranean touch that’s always a hit at any gathering.

POTATO OMELETTE TO SHARE

The Spanish omelette remains one of the absolute essentials of any snack spread. You can make it in advance and serve it cut into small squares or on skewers, making it much easier to share. Serve it with bread with tomato, extra virgin olive oil or some roasted peppers to round off the presentation. It’s a simple, inexpensive recipe that’s perfect for any football get-together.

VERMOUTH, BEER AND ICE-COLD DRINKS

Every good aperitif needs a drink to match. Vermouth remains one of the big trends for aperitif time, accompanied by a nice cold beer, a glass of white wine or a refreshing tinto de verano. You could also make some homemade lemonade with ice, mint and citrus fruits for those who prefer a non-alcoholic option. The important thing is to keep the drinks nice and cold so that everyone can enjoy the match without missing a single minute.

Regardless of the result, this is the perfect excuse to get together and share good times around the table learning how to prepare the best snacks for watching football.  A fun idea is to tailor the aperitif to the cuisine of the country playing that day: some nachos if Mexico are playing, a cheese platter if France are playing, or some bruschetta if Italy are in the spotlight. That said, at Font del Llop Terraza we’ll always be cheering on Spain, whilst enjoying the finest Mediterranean flavours. And if you’re looking to forget about the preparations and enjoy an authentic Mediterranean aperitif in a unique setting.