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Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squid:
- Start by cleaning the squid. If your squid isn’t pre-cleaned, remove the head, tentacles, and the cartilage (the “quill”) from each squid body. Rinse thoroughly and set aside.
- Pat the squid bodies dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Stuffing:
- In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, basil, garlic, and lemon zest. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Slowly add the olive oil to the breadcrumb mixture, stirring until it becomes moist and sticks together, but not too wet. The stuffing should be firm enough to hold its shape but not too dry.
3. Stuff the Squid:
- Gently stuff each squid body with the breadcrumb mixture. Be careful not to overfill, as the squid can burst during cooking.
- Use a toothpick to seal the opening of each squid, ensuring the stuffing stays inside.
4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Cook the Stuffed Squid:
- Carefully place the stuffed squid into the tomato sauce. Cover and cook over low to medium heat for about 20-25 minutes. Turn the squid halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- The squid will cook through and become tender, while the stuffing will soak up the rich flavors of the tomato sauce. The sauce should thicken slightly during cooking.
6. Serve:
- Once the squid is tender, remove it from the heat. Serve the stuffed squid with a generous spoonful of the tomato sauce and garnish with fresh basil and a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.
- Pair this dish with crusty bread or a side of pasta to complete your Amalfi-inspired meal.
Tips for Success:
- Fresh Squid: If possible, use fresh squid for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen squid, make sure it’s completely thawed and patted dry before stuffing.
- Don’t Overstuff: It’s tempting to fill the squid bodies with too much stuffing, but it’s important not to overstuff them, as they can burst while cooking. Aim for just enough filling to provide a nice bite without overpacking.
- Gentle Cooking: Squid can become rubbery if overcooked, so it’s essential to cook it gently and monitor the time carefully.
- Customize the Filling: If you want to get creative, feel free to add sautéed spinach, chopped olives, or even crumbled sausage to the breadcrumb stuffing.
Variations and Customizations:
- Add Vegetables: You can mix in finely chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, into the breadcrumb stuffing for added texture and flavor.
- Cheese: For an extra creamy and rich stuffing, you can add mozzarella or ricotta cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Seafood Stuffing: If you want an extra seafood twist, consider adding cooked shrimp or crab meat to the stuffing for an even richer flavor profile.
Conclusion
Stuffed Squid Amalfi Style is a dish that celebrates the flavors of the Mediterranean with its fresh, savory stuffing and rich, aromatic tomato sauce. It’s a perfect blend of tender seafood and flavorful herbs, making it a standout meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a special gathering or just treating yourself to a taste of Italy, this dish is sure to impress. With a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can bring the magic of the Amalfi Coast right to your table. Buon appetito!
