Neapolitan Calamari
Neapolitan Calamari is a vibrant seafood dish featuring tender squid cooked with tomatoes, olives, walnuts, and raisins, delivering a harmonious blend of Mediterranean flavors perfect for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the squid and pat dry.
- Cut the squid into 1/4 inch slices.
- Heat the oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the garlic in the oil, stirring frequently, until golden.
- Add the tomatoes, chili, and squid to the skillet.
- Cook uncovered for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the walnuts, green olives, raisins, white wine, parsley, and salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Ensure not to overcook to keep the squid tender.
- Serve by spooning the liquid over each portion.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the squid in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking. If fresh squid isn't available, frozen can be used, but ensure it's fully thawed and drained. For a spicy kick, add more red chili or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Pair with Kalamara Yemista for a delightful Mediterranean feast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Neapolitan Calamari over a bed of couscous or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of Capers-Spinach Salad complements the dish nicely, adding freshness. For an authentic touch, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Neapolitan Calamari can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat to prevent overcooking the squid, which can become rubbery if heated too quickly. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Neapolitan Calamari contains roughly 702 calories, with 30g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (124% of the Daily Value), iron (112% of the Daily Value), and potassium (62% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1358mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of seafood in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute squid with other seafood like shrimp or scallops, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Shrimp typically requires less cooking time, so add them in the last 3-5 minutes of cooking to ensure they remain tender.
What can I use instead of dry white wine?
If you prefer to avoid alcohol, substitute the dry white wine with vegetable broth or a mixture of lemon juice and water. This will add acidity and flavor without the alcohol, ensuring the dish stays vibrant and flavorful.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat level, add more red chili or incorporate crushed red pepper flakes into the dish during cooking. Additionally, a splash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños can be mixed in to give it a fiery kick while maintaining the dish's overall flavor balance.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).