There are few things as much a part of our lives as an aperitif. That sacred moment of gathering with friends or family before a meal, with the table laden with delicious treats and the clock seemingly ticking. It reminds us of Sundays at our grandparents' house, when the sun fell through the living room window and the checkered tablecloth announced the start of the party.
Preparing a Spanish-style appetizer isn't rocket science, but it has that special something that makes it a ritual. And that can't be improvised. It requires good ingredients , a little care, and a desire to enjoy it without rushing.
The art of choosing good sausages
Iberian ham , of course, is the king of the table. But don't forget to include some good slices of cured loin , sobrasada , cecina , and artisanal salchichón . Every bite is a journey through our geography of flavors. At Real Fábrica, we have packages designed for this moment, with cured meats from small producers who have been doing things the way they've always been done for generations.
Cheeses with character
A good cheese always finds its place in a worthy appetizer. Mature sheep cheese, semi-mature goat cheese, with a smoky touch, or even something milder for those who prefer it that way. The important thing is that it's artisanal and has a history. At Real Fábrica, we have a selection of Spanish cheeses that are true centerpieces on the table. And if you pair them with some quince jelly, jam, or nuts , you'll be amazed.
Preserves with history
Canned food is n't a quick fix: it's an everyday luxury. Octopus ,mussels , razor clams , or tuna ... seafood products prepared with care and canned to give you a summery taste even in December. We have Galician and Andalusian preserves that are truly wonderful and turn any snack into a mini-party.
Pâtés and foie gras to spread without rushing
Another gem in our pantry is pâtés and foie gras . Whether it's an Iberian pâté , partridge pâté , bonito pâté , or a well-made goose foie gras , these little indulgences elevate the appetizer to another level. Presented on a platter with crusty bread with raisins or regañás , they become memorable bites. At Real Fábrica, we work with producers who treat each recipe as if it were unique.
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Bread: don't miss the breadsticks
Breadsticks , regañas , breadsticks... crispy little gems that are a must-have on the table. Pair them with ham, spread some foie gras, or simply snack between sips. Choose the ones with that wood-fired oven flavor and old-fashioned texture.
Vermouth or wine: we toast with our own
A good Spanish aperitif must include a toast . You can opt for a classic vermouth , with its orange slice and olive, or a chilled red or white wine . The important thing is that it's local, from wineries that make things with love. At Real Fábrica, we've selected a few that have captured our hearts.
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The presentation also counts
They say you eat with your eyes, and this is evident in appetizers. Using a beautiful glazed ceramic tray , handcrafted bowls , or blown glass glasses can completely transform the table. You don't have to have everything matching; just choose pieces you like and that add warmth.
At Real Fábrica, we take great care with this aspect because we know that objects also tell stories. We have ceramics from Fajalauza , clay tableware from Agost , recycled glass cups from Mallorca , and traditional pieces that are a joy to look at (and use).
Details that make the difference
Set a linen tablecloth, a ceramic you like, and some cloth napkins. An aperitif isn't all about the food: it's about the moment. It's the smell of freshly sliced sausage, the sound of the cork popping, the conversation that stretches out, the sun shining through the window. Preparing a Spanish aperitif is, ultimately, a way of caring and celebrating.
And if you want to throw one of those historic events, check out our online store or come see us on Cervantes Street. We have everything you need to make that moment truly memorable. Because a good aperitif isn't improvised: it's shared.
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Real Fábrica is a project born to reclaim what's ours: what's well-made, what has history and soul. We travel across Spain in search of traditional products, those that smell of childhood, of the village, of long after-dinner conversations. You can discover our pieces in the online store , read the stories we tell on the blog , and join our community by subscribing to the newsletter .