How to make baked stuffed calamari

Calamari, also known as squid, is a delightful and versatile seafood option that can be cooked in various ways. One particularly approach is baking and stuffing the , resulting in a flavorful and succulent dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. If you’re eager to learn how to make calamari, let’s dive into the recipe and step-by-step instructions.

Ingredients:

– 8 large calamari tubes
– ½ cup bread crumbs
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
– 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
– 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your calamari cooks evenly and achieves a delightful texture.

2. Begin by cleaning the calamari tubes. Gently wash them under cold water, removing any remaining sand or debris from the inside. Pat them dry using paper towels.

3. In a bowl, combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

4. Carefully stuff the calamari tubes with the prepared mixture, ensuring they are adequately filled but not overly packed. Leave some room for the stuffing to expand during baking.

5. Place the stuffed calamari in a baking dish, making sure they are well-spaced. Drizzle them with lemon juice and a bit of olive oil.

6. Pour the marinara sauce around the calamari in the baking dish. This will help keep the calamari moist while adding a delicious tomato flavor to the dish.

7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, creating a sealed environment for the calamari to bake in. Place it in the preheated oven and let it cook for approximately 20 minutes.

8. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and allow the calamari to bake for an additional 10 minutes. This will give them a delectable golden-brown color and a slightly crispy texture.

9. Once baked, remove the stuffed calamari from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This will allow the flavors to settle and the calamari to cool slightly.

10. Serve the baked stuffed calamari on a platter, drizzled with the marinara sauce from the baking dish. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Baked stuffed calamari is a delightful dish that can be served as an appetizer or as a main course accompanied by a side salad or some deliciously cooked vegetables. The combination of flavors from the stuffing, lemon, and marinara sauce creates a sensational taste experience that will leave your guests craving for more.

Next time you’re in the mood for some exceptional seafood, consider making baked stuffed calamari. While it may seem intricate, this recipe is relatively straightforward and will undoubtedly impress your family and friends with its enticing aroma and delectable texture. Give it a try and embark on a culinary adventure with this mouthwatering dish!