Stuffed Calamari in Tomato Sauce

Looking for a delicious and impressive dish to serve at your next dinner party? Try our Stuffed Calamari in Tomato Sauce recipe! These tender calamari tubes filled with a flavorful breadcrumb mixture and simmered in a rich tomato sauce are sure to wow your guests. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. Bursting with flavor: The combination of fresh bread crumbs, cheeses, garlic, and parsley creates a mouthwatering filling that complements the tender calamari perfectly.
2. Quick and easy prep: This recipe comes together in no time, making it a great option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
3. Versatile: Serve the Stuffed Calamari in Tomato Sauce over your favorite pasta for a complete meal, or pair it with a side salad for a lighter option.

Ingredient Notes:

For the filling:

• Fresh bread crumbs from day-old bread provide a light and crispy texture.
• Grated Parmigiano/Pecorino cheeses add a salty and nutty flavor.
• Freshly chopped parsley brings a bright and herby note.
• Garlic and egg bind the filling together.
• Salt and pepper for seasoning.
  For the tomato sauce:
• Olive oil for sautéing.
• Minced garlic and red pepper flakes for added flavor.
• Tomato passata (tomato purée) forms the base of the sauce.
• Salt to taste.
  For serving:
• Pasta of your choice complements the flavors of the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine bread crumbs, cheeses, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper for the filling.
2. Stuff the calamari tubes with the breadcrumb mixture and secure with toothpicks.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic and red pepper flakes.
4. Add tomato passata, salt, and stuffed calamari. Simmer until calamari is cooked through.
5. Serve over cooked pasta and enjoy!

Helpful Tips:

• To enhance the flavor, consider adding chopped olives or capers to the filling.
• For a lighter version, use whole wheat breadcrumbs and lean ground turkey as a filling alternative.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the texture of the calamari.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Sear the stuffed calamari briefly before simmering in the tomato sauce for a caramelized exterior.
2. Use homemade tomato sauce for a fresher and more vibrant flavor profile.
3. Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for a twist on the traditional recipe.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair the Stuffed Calamari in Tomato Sauce with a side of garlic bread and a crisp white wine for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, place the dish in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to maintain the tenderness of the calamari.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use frozen calamari for this recipe?
   Yes, thaw the calamari completely before stuffing and cooking.
2. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
   Certainly! Prepare the filling in advance and stuff the calamari just before cooking for a quicker meal prep.
3. Can I freeze the Stuffed Calamari in Tomato Sauce?
   While the dish can be frozen, the texture of the calamari may change slightly upon reheating.
4. What can I serve alongside this dish?
   Garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments to this flavorful dish.

Conclusion:

Impress your guests with our Stuffed Calamari in Tomato Sauce recipe that is bursting with flavor and easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a special meal, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds. Try it out and let us know how it turns out!

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