Stuffed Squid Delight: Savory & Easy Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Discover the Magic of Stuffed Squid Delight

Picture this: a cozy dinner party with friends, laughter filling the air, and the aroma of something truly special wafting from the kitchen. That’s exactly what happened when I first tried making Stuffed Squid Delight. It was love at first bite! This dish is a showstopper—tender calamari stuffed with a savory shrimp mixture, all bathed in a rich tomato sauce. It’s elegant yet simple, perfect for impressing your guests or treating your family to something unforgettable.

The Story Behind Stuffed Squid Delight

This recipe hails from Mediterranean cuisine, where seafood reigns supreme. Traditionally, calamari (or squid) is celebrated for its versatility and delicate flavor. Growing up, my grandmother would often prepare stuffed squid for Sunday dinners, but her version was simpler—just breadcrumbs, garlic, and parsley. Over time, I added my own twist by incorporating shrimp into the stuffing. The result? A dish that feels both nostalgic and excitingly new. Whether you’re honoring tradition or experimenting in the kitchen, this recipe bridges the gap beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for Stuffed Squid Delight. First, it’s packed with flavor—juicy shrimp, aromatic herbs, and tangy tomatoes create a symphony of tastes. Second, it’s surprisingly easy to make. Don’t let the fancy name fool you; even beginner cooks can pull this off. Plus, it’s versatile. Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or even part of a tapas spread. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Perfect Occasions to Prepare This Dish

Stuffed Squid Delight shines on special occasions. Think date nights, holiday gatherings, or intimate dinner parties. It’s also a fantastic choice for themed events like Mediterranean nights or seafood feasts. I’ve served it at birthday dinners and baby showers, and it always gets rave reviews. Even better? It works wonders for casual weeknight meals when you want to feel a little fancy without too much fuss.

Ingredients

• 12 medium calamari, cleaned (bodies and tentacles separated)
• 10 oz (280 g) wild Gulf shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tailless
• 1 tsp finely chopped garlic
• 2 tsp finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs or dry breadcrumbs
• 1 small egg
• Seasoned flour or Drakes Batter Mix
• Olive oil
• 1/2 bunch fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped
• Toothpicks
• For the tomato sauce:
• 2 cans (28 oz each) San Marzano tomatoes
• 2 tbsp Italian tomato paste
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Pinch of red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Substitution Options

• If you can’t find wild Gulf shrimp, any fresh shrimp will do.
• Panko breadcrumbs can be swapped with regular breadcrumbs.
• Drakes Batter Mix can be replaced with plain flour seasoned with salt and pepper.
• Fresh basil can be substituted with 1 tsp dried basil if needed.

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, letting them sizzle until golden brown. This step fills your kitchen with the most amazing aroma—a mix of sweetness and sharpness that sets the tone for the dish. Next, pour in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. The sauce thickens slightly and develops a deep, rich flavor during this time.

Pro tip: Use a wooden spoon to crush the tomatoes while stirring. It gives the sauce a rustic texture and helps blend the flavors.

Step 2: Make the Shrimp Filling

In a food processor, pulse the shrimp until they turn into a smooth paste. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the chopped onion, garlic, egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly with a rubber spatula until combined. Now comes the fun part—stuffing the calamari! Use a small spoon to fill each squid body evenly, leaving about 2 cm unfilled at the top. Secure the opening with a toothpick. Be gentle; these little guys are delicate!

Chef’s tip: If you have leftover tentacles, chop them finely and add them to the filling for extra texture.

Step 3: Cook the Calamari

Lightly coat the stuffed calamari in seasoned flour or batter mix. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the calamari for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer them carefully to the simmering tomato sauce. Cover the pot and let everything cook gently for 20 minutes. Occasionally stir and check the consistency of the sauce—if it’s too thick, add a splash of water.

Step 4: Fry the Tentacles (Optional)

While the calamari simmers, you can fry the tentacles for a crispy garnish. Dip them in milk, then coat with flour before frying in hot oil until golden. Drain on paper towels and set aside.

Step 5: Presentation

Arrange the cooked calamari on a platter, drizzle generously with the tomato sauce, and sprinkle with fried tentacles and fresh parsley. Serve warm with sharp knives for slicing or pre-cut portions for easy serving.

Timing

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Chef’s Secret

For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of white wine to the tomato sauce while it simmers. It adds depth and pairs beautifully with the seafood.

Extra Info

Did you know that calamari is not only delicious but also nutritious? It’s low in fat and high in protein, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Plus, using wild-caught shrimp ensures sustainability and superior taste.

Necessary Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Food processor
• Wooden spoon
• Sharp knife

Storage

Leftover Stuffed Squid Delight can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the texture of the calamari. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the squid rubbery.

If you’d like to freeze the dish, skip the frying step and freeze the stuffed calamari raw in the sauce. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For best results, store the fried tentacles separately and re-crisp them in a toaster oven before serving.

Tips and Advice

• Don’t overfill the calamari, as the stuffing expands during cooking.
• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for maximum flavor.
• Taste the sauce before adding salt—it may already be salty enough from the tomato paste.

Presentation Tips

• Garnish with lemon wedges for a pop of color.
• Serve on a bed of greens for a fresh contrast.
• Use colorful plates to highlight the vibrant dish.

Healthier Alternative Recipes

1. Low-Carb Version: Skip the breadcrumbs and use almond flour instead.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
3. Dairy-Free Twist: Omit butter and rely solely on olive oil.
4. Vegetarian Delight: Stuff the calamari with a mix of mushrooms and spinach.
5. Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
6. Herbaceous Blend: Incorporate fresh thyme or rosemary into the filling.

Mistake 1: Overstuffing the Calamari

Overstuffing is a common mistake that leads to uneven cooking and bursting. To avoid this, leave about 2 cm of space at the top. Remember, the filling expands as it cooks!

Mistake 2: Overcooking the Calamari

Calamari becomes tough if overcooked. Stick to the recommended cooking times and keep an eye on the texture. Tender calamari should feel soft and springy.

Mistake 3: Skipping the Searing Step

Searing locks in the flavors and creates a beautiful golden crust. Don’t skip this step—it makes a world of difference!

Mistake 4: Using Low-Quality Tomatoes

The quality of your tomatoes matters. Always opt for San Marzano or another premium brand for the best results.

FAQ

What does Stuffed Squid Delight taste like?

This dish offers a delightful balance of flavors. The calamari is tender, the shrimp filling is juicy and flavorful, and the tomato sauce ties everything together with its tangy richness.

Can I use frozen calamari?

Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry before using. Fresh calamari is preferable for optimal texture.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the mild flavor and fun presentation. Just go light on the spices if they’re sensitive to heat.

How do I clean calamari?

Check out online tutorials for cleaning calamari. It’s easier than it looks, but buying pre-cleaned squid saves time.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead and assemble just before cooking. Store the filling and sauce separately in the fridge.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Try crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. They complement the dish perfectly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not inherently, but you can easily adapt it by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.

Can I substitute the shrimp?

Yes, crabmeat or scallops work well as alternatives.

How do I prevent the calamari from tearing?

Handle the calamari gently and ensure your hands and workspace are clean and dry.

What wine pairs best with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully.

With its irresistible flavors and elegant presentation, Stuffed Squid Delight is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!