Stuffed Calamari Recipe

Classic Italian Stuffed Calamari recipe, featuring squid tubes filled with breadcrumbs, garlic, lemon zest, and herbs. Perfect for a flavorful yet alcohol-free seafood dish.

Stuffed Calamari is an exquisite Italian dish, rich in flavor and heritage. Tender squid tubes are filled with a seasoned breadcrumb mixture of garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Unlike traditional recipes that use white wine, this version uses a vegetable broth alternative, ensuring a flavorful yet alcohol-free meal. This seafood delicacy is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a special, savory meal.

If you enjoy seafood dishes like this, you may also love our Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon or our comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta for more family-friendly, easy seafood recipes.

Key Ingredients

Here are the key ingredients you need for the Stuffed Calamari:

• Calamari (8 tubes, large): Choose large-sized squid with a long tube to hold more stuffing.
• Breadcrumbs (2 cups): Regular or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan (¼ cup): Adds depth and richness to the stuffing.
• Lemon Zest (1 teaspoon): Adds brightness and complements the seafood.
• Fresh Parsley (1 sprig, chopped): Adds freshness to the stuffing.
• Vegetable Broth (½ cup): Used instead of white wine for simmering.
• Olive Oil (as needed): For sautéing the squid.
• Garlic Cloves (2, peeled): Essential aromatic for the dish.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors.

Equipment Needed

• Large Skillet: To cook the squid.
• Tongs: For turning the squid tubes.
• Toothpicks: To seal the squid tubes.

Preparation Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

1. Clean the Calamari:
   • Separate the calamari heads from the legs. Rinse and ensure there is no bone left inside the tubes.
2. Prepare the Stuffing:
   • In a blender, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Blend until smooth.
   • Sauté the calamari legs in olive oil and minced garlic until they become a whitish color. Chop and add to the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring all the flavors combine.

Stuff and Cook the Calamari

1. Stuff the Calamari Tubes:
   • Gently fill the tubes with the breadcrumb mixture, making sure not to overfill. Use a toothpick to close the opening of each tube.
2. Cook the Calamari:
   • In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the stuffed calamari until slightly white.
   • Pierce the tubes to allow juices to escape while cooking.
   • Add vegetable broth and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until tender. Stir occasionally.

Chef’s Secrets

• Stuffing Consistency: Ensure the breadcrumb mixture is moist to avoid the stuffing being too dry once cooked.
• Piercing the Tubes: Always pierce the stuffed calamari before cooking to prevent the tubes from bursting as they shrink.
• Don’t Overstuff: Since the squid will shrink when cooked, overfilling the tubes may cause the stuffing to pop out.

Alternative Versions or Modifications

• Tomato-Based Sauce: Add ½ cup tomato sauce after the vegetable broth has evaporated for a flavorful red sauce version.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the calamari with bell pepper for a vegetarian twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfilling the Tubes: When cooked, the calamari will shrink, and overfilled tubes may burst.
• Skipping the Sauté: Not sautéing the legs before mixing with the breadcrumbs will result in a loss of flavor in the stuffing.
• Cooking for Too Long: Overcooking the calamari will result in a rubbery texture. Stick to the recommended cooking time for the best results.

Tips and Tricks

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh squid is key to achieving the best taste and texture.
• Lemon Zest Boost: Adding extra lemon zest right before serving brightens the entire dish.
• Seal the Stuffed Tubes Properly: Use toothpicks to secure the ends of the squid tubes properly so that the stuffing stays intact during cooking.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 266 kcal per serving
• Protein: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Sodium: 498mg

This dish is relatively low in calories but rich in flavor, making it a satisfying and light seafood option.

FAQs

1. Q: Should I boil calamari before frying?
   A: No, boiling will make calamari rubbery. The quick sauté method used here ensures it stays tender.
2. Q: Can I use a different kind of cheese?
   A: Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or a non-dairy Parmesan alternative if needed.
3. Q: How do I keep the stuffing from falling out?
   A: Use a toothpick to securely close the opening of the calamari tube and avoid overfilling.
4. Q: Can I add vegetables to the stuffing?
   A: Absolutely! Adding finely chopped spinach or zucchini can add more flavor and nutrients to the stuffing.
5. Q: Is there an alcohol-free substitute for white wine?
   A: Use vegetable broth with a splash of lemon juice to replicate the acidity and depth that white wine adds.

Serving Suggestions

• With Steamed Potatoes: Serve with Baby Potatoes Salad with Basil for a light side dish.
• With Green Vegetables: Green Beans Marinated in Garlic and Parsley pair excellently with this dish.
• As an Appetizer: Slice and serve on a platter with a simple lemon aioli dipping sauce.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to prevent the calamari from becoming rubbery.

Conclusion

This Stuffed Calamari Recipe is a true Italian classic, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner. The tender calamari combined with the flavorful breadcrumb stuffing creates a delightful dish that’s full of textures and vibrant flavors. Whether you serve it with a side salad or some steamed potatoes, it’s sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to explore our Shrimp Cakes Recipe or our popular Easy Indian Chicken Curry for more inspiration.