The dish is essentially a hearty soup made with , cannellini beans, tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs. It is typically served with a slice of crusty bread to mop up the delicious broth. The flavors in this dish are expertly balanced, with the natural sweetness of the squid complementing the earthy flavor of the beans and the tanginess of the tomatoes.
Preparing this dish is relatively simple but requires a bit of patience and attention to detail. The first step is to clean and prep the squid. This involves removing the head and the innards, as well as the skin and the backbone. The cleaned squid should be cut into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Next, you’ll need to prepare the base for the stew. This involves sautéing some onions and garlic in olive oil until they are soft and fragrant. Then you’ll add in some diced tomatoes and cook them for a few minutes until they start to break down and form a sauce.
Once the sauce is ready, you can add in the squid and the cannellini beans. These should be simmered together for about 15-20 minutes until the squid is cooked through and the flavors have melded together. The final step is to add in some fresh herbs like parsley or basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
One of the great things about this dish is its versatility. It can be served as a main course or as a hearty appetizer. It also pairs well with a wide range of wine varietals, including crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio or full-bodied red wines like Chianti.
In addition to being delicious, squid and cannellini stew is also packed with health benefits. Squid is a low-fat, high-protein food that is a good source of vitamins and minerals like B12, iron, and phosphorus. Cannellini beans are also a good source of protein and fiber, making this dish a great option for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet.
Overall, squid and cannellini stew is a classic dish that is sure to please anyone who loves seafood or Mediterranean cuisine. It is easy to prepare and packed with flavor and nutrition. So why not try making it for your next dinner party or weekday meal? Your taste buds (and maybe even your guests) will thank you!