Stuffed Squid
Tender stuffed squid filled with rice, herbs, and tomatoes, baked to perfection; a flavorful Mediterranean dish perfect for seafood lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove ink sac and bones from squids.
- Wash squids thoroughly.
- Remove head and entrails from the body.
- Cut feelers from head and chop very fine together with entrails.
- Place chopped feelers and entrails in a bowl.
- Add rice, 1/2 cup olive oil, chopped mint leaves, tomato paste, canned tomatoes, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Stuff the squids with the mixture and replace the heads to keep the filling inside.
- Arrange stuffed squids in a baking dish and pour remaining juice from filling over them.
- Add remaining olive oil and water to the dish.
- Bake in a hot oven at 475°F (246°C) for 20 minutes.
- Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Baste the squids occasionally during baking.
- Serve very hot.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your stuffed squid, consider adding some grated lemon zest or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling. If fresh mint is unavailable, dried mint can be a suitable substitute. For a lighter version, substitute the olive oil with vegetable broth when baking. Make sure to check the squids for any remaining ink sacs or bones before stuffing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed squid very hot, drizzled with the baking juices for added flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or Mediterranean recipes like Tuna Tabouli(Strict Fast) for a complete meal. A side of crusty bread is also great for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed squid can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, place them in a baking dish with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Squid contains roughly 518 calories, with 12g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (166% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), and potassium (33% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2623mg per serving (114% 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 frozen squid for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen squid; just make sure to thaw them completely before starting. Quick thawing can be done by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. Ensure they are cleaned thoroughly before stuffing.
What can I serve with stuffed squid?
Stuffed squid is delicious on its own, but it pairs well with a side of Mediterranean rice or a fresh green salad. You might also consider serving it alongside some herbed bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
How do I know when the squid is cooked properly?
The stuffed squid is done when the rice is tender and the squid is opaque. It should not be rubbery; overcooking can make the squid tough. Baking at the recommended temperatures will help ensure perfect results.
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).