Greek stuffed calamari is a delightful dish that transports you straight to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean. This recipe not only showcases the tender, succulent squid but also highlights the rich flavors of traditional Greek cuisine. With its origins rooted in coastal towns, calamari has been a beloved staple for generations, often enjoyed during festive gatherings and family meals. What I love most about Greek stuffed calamari is the perfect harmony of textures and tastes—the tender calamari paired with a savory filling of herbs, rice, and spices creates a culinary experience that is both satisfying and memorable.

People adore this dish not just for its incredible flavor but also for its convenience; it can be prepared ahead of time and baked to perfection, making it an ideal choice for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to explore new flavors, Greek stuffed calamari is sure to impress and become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients:

1 pound fresh calamari, cleaned and tentacles separated
1 cup cooked rice (preferably short-grain or arborio)
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 lemon, zested and juiced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup olive oil, divided
1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Fresh lemon wedges, for serving

Preparing the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, crumbled feta cheese, chopped Kalamata olives, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and finely chopped onion. 2. Add the dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), lemon zest, and lemon juice to the mixture. 3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 4. Mix everything together until well combined. This filling should be flavorful and aromatic, so don’t be shy with the seasoning!

Stuffing the Calamari

5. Take your cleaned calamari tubes and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. 6. Using a small spoon or a piping bag, carefully stuff each calamari tube with the rice and feta mixture. Be sure not to overfill them, as the calamari will shrink slightly while cooking. Leave a little space at the top to allow for expansion. 7. Once filled, secure the open end of each calamari tube with a toothpick or a small skewer to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.

Cooking the Calamari

8. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. 9. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the stuffed calamari in the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. 10. Once browned, remove the calamari from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Creating the Sauce

11. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté any leftover chopped onion and garlic until they are translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. 12. Pour in the marinara sauce and bring it to a gentle simmer. 13. Add the stuffed calamari back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. 14. Cover the skillet and let the calamari simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together and ensure the calamari is cooked through.

Serving the Dish

15. Once the calamari are cooked, carefully remove them from the skillet and place them on a serving platter. 16. Spoon the marinara sauce over the top of the calamari, ensuring they are well-coated. 17. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Calamari

– Make sure to clean the calamari thoroughly before stuffing. You can ask your fishmonger to clean them for you if you’re unsure how to do it. – If you prefer a bit of crunch, consider adding some breadcrumbs to the filling mixture. – For a twist, you can add some sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts to the filling for added flavor and texture. – If you have leftover filling, you can bake it in a small dish with some marinara sauce and cheese on top for a delicious side dish. Enjoy your Greek stuffed calamari with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and don’t forget to share with friends and family! This dish is sure to impress and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful journey into the world of Greek stuffed calamari, I can confidently say that this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to impress their family and friends with a dish that is both elegant and bursting with flavor. The combination of tender calamari filled with a savory mixture of herbs, spices, and cheese creates a culinary experience that transports you straight to the sun-soaked shores of Greece. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing these stuffed calamari with a refreshing Greek salad or a side of lemony rice pilaf to complement the rich flavors of the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with different fillings—try adding some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an extra burst of Mediterranean flair. I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a special meal, Greek stuffed calamari is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you come up with; I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!