How to Make Italian-Style Stuffed Squid
Italian-style stuffed squid, also known as calamari ripieni, is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of fresh seafood with savory filling. Making this dish at home can be a rewarding experience for both novice and experienced cooks. Follow this guide to create a delicious Italian-style stuffed squid that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
To prepare Italian-style stuffed squid, gather the following ingredients:
- 8 medium-sized fresh squid, cleaned and tentacles reserved
- 1 cup of cooked rice or quinoa
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of marinara sauce
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions
Preparing the Squid
1. Start by cleaning the squid if not already done. Rinse them under cold water and remove any residual ink or internal organs. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Chop the squid tentacles into small pieces and set aside for the stuffing.
Making the Stuffing
1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
2. Stir in the chopped tentacles of the squid and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice or quinoa, sautéed mixture, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, parsley, beaten egg, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Stuffing the Squid
1. Carefully stuff each squid with the prepared mixture using a small spoon or piping bag, filling them about three-quarters full. Be careful not to overstuff, as the squid will shrink during cooking.
2. Secure the openings of the squid with toothpicks or by gently tying them with kitchen twine.
Cooking the Stuffed Squid
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In an oven-safe skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the stuffed squid and brown them for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
3. Pour the marinara sauce over the squid, ensuring they are well-covered.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the squid is tender and fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
Remove the toothpicks or twine from the squid before serving. Plate the stuffed squid with a generous amount of marinara sauce and sprinkle with additional parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Pair the dish with crusty bread or a side salad to complement the flavors.
Conclusion
Italian-style stuffed squid is a delicious and elegant dish sure to make any meal special. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can bring the taste of Italy into your kitchen. Enjoy your culinary creation!