15 Italian Calamari Sauce Recipe They're Simply Irresistible!
Published on: Mar 17, 2024
Calamari is a popular seafood dish that originated in Italy and has become a beloved delicacy around the world. The dish features tender and flavorful squid rings, often served fried or grilled and topped with a variety of sauces. One of the most delicious and versatile sauces to pair with calamari is the Italian calamari sauce. This flavorful sauce is a perfect accompaniment to the tender and delicate calamari, adding a burst of flavor and richness to the dish. In this article, we will share a professional and well-organized Italian calamari sauce recipe that will elevate your calamari dish to new heights.
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Ingredients for Italian Calamari Sauce
1. Fresh Tomatoes
The key to a delicious Italian calamari sauce is using fresh tomatoes. They add a bright and tangy flavor to the sauce and also provide a beautiful red color. Make sure to use ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best results.
2. Garlic and Onion
Garlic and onion are essential flavor enhancers in any Italian dish. They add depth and complexity to the sauce, making it more flavorful and aromatic.
3. Herbs and Spices
To give the calamari sauce its signature Italian flavor, we will use a combination of herbs and spices. These include dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. You can also add a pinch of thyme and rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Olive Oil
Olive oil is an essential ingredient in Italian cuisine, and it adds a rich and fruity flavor to the sauce. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
5. White Wine
White wine not only adds a delicious tang to the sauce, but it also helps to balance out the acidity from the tomatoes. Choose a dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
6. Calamari
Of course, the star of this dish is the calamari itself. Use fresh or frozen calamari rings for this recipe, and make sure to clean them thoroughly before cooking.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Tomatoes
Start by blanching the tomatoes in boiling water for a minute, then transferring them to an ice bath. This will make it easier to peel off the skin. Once peeled, dice the tomatoes and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Onion
In a large saucepan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onion, and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Spices
Add the diced tomatoes to the pan and stir in the dried herbs and spices. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the White Wine
Once the tomatoes have cooked down and the sauce has thickened, pour in the white wine and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Add the Calamari
Finally, add the calamari rings to the sauce and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the calamari, as it can become tough and rubbery.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once the calamari is cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the sauce over a bed of freshly cooked pasta or as a dipping sauce for grilled calamari. Garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. You can also serve the sauce over a bed of creamy polenta for a delicious twist.
In conclusion, this Italian calamari sauce is a must-try for all seafood lovers. It's easy to make, bursting with flavor, and pairs perfectly with the tender calamari. Impress your family and friends with this delicious sauce and elevate your calamari dish to a whole new level. Buon appetito!
