Stuffed squid, or calamari ripieni, is a cherished dish in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Greece, Italy, and Spain. This elegant recipe transforms humble squid into a flavorful centrepiece, perfect for special occasions or a gourmet weeknight dinner. Tender squid and a savoury filling create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or a culinary adventurer, this stuffed squid recipe impresses your palate and elevates your cooking repertoire.
Why You Will Love the Stuffed Squid Recipe
This stuffed squid recipe offers a delightful balance of flavours and textures, making it a standout dish for seafood lovers.
- Rich in protein and low in fat, making it a healthy choice.
- Versatile filling options to suit various tastes.
- Impressive presentation, ideal for entertaining guests.
- Quick to prepare, yet feels indulgent.
- Offers a taste of Mediterranean cuisine in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You Will Need
Gather these essential ingredients before diving into the cooking process to create a delectable stuffed squid dish.
- 6–8 cleaned squid tubes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Cook Stuffed Squid
Follow these steps to prepare a mouthwatering stuffed squid dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavours.
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and lemon juice in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Stuff the Squid Tubes
Carefully spoon the filling into each squid tube, ensuring they’re filled but not overstuffed. Secure the open ends with toothpicks.
Step 3: Sauté the Squid
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the stuffed squid and sauté for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Step 4: Serve
Remove the toothpicks and serve the stuffed squid hot, garnished with additional parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Stuffed Squid
Ingredients
Method
- Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fill squid tubes with mixture, leaving space at the top. Secure with toothpicks.
- Heat olive oil in a pan. Sear stuffed squid 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove toothpicks. Garnish with parsley and lemon juice. Serve hot.
Notes
Serving Tips for Stuffed Squid
Enhance your stuffed squid dish with these suggestions that complement its rich flavours and elevate the dining experience.
- Serve with a side of lemon wedges for added zest.
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
- Accompanied by a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a pop of colour.
- Serve over a bed of couscous or rice to soak up the flavorful juices.
- For a Mediterranean touch, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
Nutritional Benefits of Stuffed Squid
Stuffed squid is a nutritious addition to your diet. It’s high in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Squid is also rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B-12, potassium, copper, and iron, which strengthen the immune system and improve blood cell performance.
Additionally, squid contains omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation. Stuffed squid is a heart-healthy choice with minimal fat content when prepared with wholesome ingredients.
Conclusion
Incorporating stuffed squid into your culinary repertoire introduces a flavorful and nutritious dish. Its rich protein content and essential nutrients make it a heart-healthy option that doesn’t compromise taste. Whether preparing it for a special occasion or a delightful weeknight dinner, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe will impress and satisfy you.