Ingredients:
– 1 lb. calamarata pasta
– 1 large zucchini, washed and diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lbs of fresh squid, washed and cut into rings
– 2 tbsp of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 1/4 cup tuna bottarga
– Lemon zest and juice for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the calamarata pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, for about 30 seconds.
3. Add the diced zucchini, oregano, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5 minutes until the zucchini is and slightly browned.
4. Push the zucchini to one side of the skillet and add the squid rings. Cook until lightly browned and cooked through, for about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Mix the zucchini and squid together in the skillet and add the tomato paste, dry white wine, and reserved pasta water. Stir to combine and cook until the sauce has thickened, for about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add the cooked calamarata pasta to the skillet and toss gently with the sauce. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Grate the tuna bottarga on top of the pasta and sprinkle some lemon zest on top. Drizzle with lemon juice before serving.
Calamarata pasta with tuna bottarga, zucchini, and squid is a light yet flavorful dish that celebrates the taste of Southern Italy. The combination of fresh seafood, tangy tomato sauce, and earthy zucchini provides a balance of flavors that are at once comforting and refreshing. The tuna bottarga brings a salty, umami flavor that sets this dish apart from other pasta dishes. Serve it with a side of crusty bread and a glass of white wine to elevate this meal to a gourmet experience!