On June 16th, we celebrate World Tapas Day, a special occasion that pays tribute to one of Spain’s most beloved culinary traditions: enjoying tapas. And if there’s one tapa that truly represents the essence of the Spanish bar, it’s undoubtedly the olive.

At Aceitunas Torrent, as century-old experts in table olives, we join the celebration by highlighting the historical, cultural, and social significance of this millennia-old fruit, which has accompanied generations in every toast, every conversation, and every shared table. Today we want to tell you why the olive is much more than just a simple appetizer.

Tapas: a symbol of Spanish gastronomic culture

Spain is synonymous with good food, good company, and lively conversation. And in that setting, tapas play a fundamental role. There are multiple theories about their origin: some say that Alfonso X the Wise ordered small portions of food to be served with wine to counteract the effects of excessive alcohol. Others claim that it was common to cover glasses with slices of ham or bread to prevent insects from getting in.

Whatever its true origin, what’s undeniable is that the tapa has become a gastronomic institution. So much so that it now has its own day: World Tapas Day, promoted by hospitality associations to recognize its cultural, social, and economic value.

The olive: the most authentic tapa

Few tapas can boast of being as ancient and universal as the olive. It’s simple, healthy, versatile, and delicious. And above all, it has something special: it’s the first tapa served in bars, the one that comes with your first beer, vermouth, or sangría.

Why is it so popular?

• No preparation needed. Olives are served just as they are, preserved at their optimal flavor point.
• Everyone loves them. Their balanced flavor—salty, tangy, and umami—is perfect for an aperitif.
• They have history. Since Roman times, olives have been part of the Mediterranean diet and social gatherings.

Aceitunas Torrent: experts in a tradition with centuries of flavor

At Aceitunas Torrent, we’ve spent generations perfecting the art of preparing table olives. We know that each variety has its own character: from green manzanilla olives stuffed with anchovy, to intensely flavored black olives or gordal olives seasoned with garlic and pepper.

Our commitment is clear: to offer products that honor tradition, with the innovation needed to win over new palates.

• Careful fruit selection. We work only with top-quality olives, harvested at just the right time.
• Traditional and unique marinades. We combine timeless recipes with modern touches that surprise.
• Global presence. We bring Spanish tapas to over 70 countries, spreading the value of our culture.

The olive, the perfect pairing

A tapa should complement, not compete with the drink. And in that sense, the olive is unbeatable. Its balance of saltiness and acidity cleanses the palate, enhances flavors, and stimulates the appetite. It pairs perfectly with:

• Light and blonde beers
• White wines
• Red vermouth
• Sangría
• Salt-based cocktails, such as the Bloody Mary

It’s no coincidence that in many bars, when you order a drink, you’re immediately served some olives. It’s a gesture of courtesy, but also a well-thought-out gastronomic strategy.

The tapa that brings generations together

One of the olive’s greatest virtues is its ability to connect with all audiences. From grandparents enjoying their vermouth with a whole olive, to young people choosing gourmet options stuffed with pepper, blue cheese, or even salmon.

At family gatherings, outings with friends, food events, or even at home, the olive is that small detail that makes a big difference. At Aceitunas Torrent, we know this, which is why we work to ensure there’s always a perfect variety for every occasion.

Innovation without losing our essence

At Aceitunas Torrent, we embrace the future without forgetting our legacy. That’s why we develop easy-to-serve formats, with sustainable packaging and flavors adapted to new trends. Some of our most appreciated innovations include:

• Gourmet stuffed olives (Manchego cheese, sun-dried tomato, truffle…)
• Ready-to-serve marinated olives (black garlic, Mediterranean herbs…)
• Single-serve packaging for hospitality
• Pitted options for quick appetizers

This allows us not only to lead the table olive sector but also to enrich the concept of tapas, bringing them to new settings: events, catering, food trucks, brunches, and international appetizers.

How to celebrate World Tapas Day

If you love tapas, June 16 is the perfect day to pay tribute to this tradition. And what better way to do it than by preparing a board of assorted olives? Here are a few ideas:

Olive board for tapas:

• Green olives stuffed with anchovy
• Gordal olives marinated with peppers and oregano
• Seville-style black olives
• Stuffed with goat cheese and paprika
• Mixed olives seasoned with garlic and lemon

Pair your board with crispy bread, breadsticks, slices of ham, Manchego cheese, and a cold drink. Cheers!

This June 16, let’s toast to the tapa. And above all, let’s toast to the olive—that small yet great symbol of what it means to share.