Description
Mediterranean charm blossoms in this stuffed squid recipe, where tender calamari embrace a rich filling of herbs, breadcrumbs, and garlic. Mediterranean coastal kitchens come alive with each delectable bite, inviting you to savor authentic oceanic flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) squid, cleaned
- 150 g (5 oz) breadcrumbs
- 150 g (5 oz) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 10–12 black olives, pitted and chopped
Aromatic and Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 chili pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 20 g (0.7 oz) capers, rinsed and chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons grated cheese (Parmesan or Pecorino)
Seasoning:
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Water (as needed)
Instructions
- Craft a robust, aromatic filling by combining breadcrumbs with finely chopped garlic, vibrant chili pepper, briny capers, fragrant parsley, and pungent grated cheese. Incorporate a generous drizzle of olive oil, seasoning with salt and pepper. Blend ingredients thoroughly, ensuring a moist, cohesive mixture that binds easily.
- Gently stuff each squid body with the prepared mixture, taking care to leave a small margin at the top to prevent overflow. Secure the openings carefully with toothpicks to maintain the filling’s integrity during cooking.
- Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat. Carefully introduce the stuffed squid, searing them methodically to achieve a light golden exterior. This process typically requires 3-4 minutes of attentive cooking.
- Utilize the same skillet to create a vibrant sauce, adding additional olive oil. Introduce cherry tomatoes and olives, allowing them to soften and release their natural flavors. Enhance the sauce with a modest splash of water, seasoning appropriately with salt and pepper.
- Reintroduce the golden squid to the simmering sauce, covering the skillet to allow gentle cooking. Maintain a low heat, rotating the squid periodically during the 15-20 minute cooking process. Monitor the sauce’s consistency, adding water if it becomes too thick.
- Present the stuffed squid while piping hot, embellishing with freshly chopped parsley. Complement the dish with crusty artisan bread or a crisp, refreshing salad for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Notes
- Select fresh, medium-sized squid with clean, intact bodies for the best texture and flavor absorption.
- Rinse squid thoroughly and pat dry before stuffing to ensure the filling adheres properly and prevents excess moisture.
- Chop ingredients finely to create a uniform, cohesive filling that distributes evenly inside the squid.
- Avoid overstuffing by leaving a small space at the top, which allows the filling to expand slightly during cooking without bursting.
- Use toothpicks strategically to seal the squid openings and prevent filling from leaking during cooking.
- Sear squid quickly over medium heat to develop a golden exterior while maintaining tenderness.
- Monitor liquid levels during simmering, adding water gradually to prevent burning and maintain a light, delicate sauce.
- Experiment with alternative fillings like quinoa, herbs, or different cheeses for dietary variations or personal preferences.
- Consider gluten-free options by substituting breadcrumbs with almond meal or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Pair with light white wines or crisp rosés that complement the seafood’s delicate flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 37 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg