Gildas
Serves: 4 | Level: Easy | Season: All Season
If you’re looking for the perfect no-fuss appetizer that delivers maximum flavour with minimal effort, Gildas are it.
A beloved Spanish pintxo (that’s Basque for snack on a stick), Gildas combine just three ingredients: briny olives, salty anchovies, and punchy pickled peppers into the ultimate one-bite cocktail companion. Named after Rita Hayworth’s character in Gilda, this little skewer is bold, unapologetic, and just the right amount of spicy.
Assemble them in advance and serve with an ice-cold martini (twist mandatory). Your guests will think you’re fancy, but you’ll know the truth—it took five minutes.
INGREDIENTS
12 green olives (Manzanilla or other briny Spanish olives)
12 pickled guindilla peppers (or substitute with pepperoncini if unavailable)
12 anchovy fillets, halved lengthwise
Toothpicks or small skewers
DIRECTIONS
Assemble
On each toothpick, thread one olive, one folded anchovy fillet, and one guindilla pepper. The order isn’t strict, but the classic combo usually starts with the olive and finishes with the pepper for a balanced bite.Plate and serve
Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. If you like, drizzle with a little of the anchovy oil or high-quality olive oil for extra richness. Serve chilled or at room temperature.