Tender squid tubes stuffed with a flavorful mixture of seafood, herbs, garlic, and breadcrumbs, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce until perfectly tender. This Ultimate Stuffed Calamari is an elegant Mediterranean dish that’s impressive enough for guests yet easy enough for a special family dinner.

Ingredients

For the Calamari

• 8 large squid tubes, cleaned
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Stuffing

• 250 g shrimp, finely chopped
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper

Tomato Sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (400 g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Mix all stuffing ingredients in a bowl.
2. Fill each squid tube about three-quarters full and secure with toothpicks.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet.
4. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Nestle the stuffed calamari into the sauce.
7. Cover and simmer for 35–40 minutes until tender.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

40 minutes

Servings

4 servings