Name: Savory Shrimp Stuffed Squid in Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 1 medium Onion; 3 cloves Garlic; 1 can Tomatoes; 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste; 1 teaspoon Oregano; 1 tablespoon Basil; 1/2 teaspoon Pepper Flakes; to taste Salt and Pepper; 1 pound Shrimp; 1 large Egg; 1 cup Bread Crumbs; 4 Squid (calamari); 1/2 cup Wine; to taste Parsley; 1 cup Drake’s Batter Mix

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Shrimp Stuffed Squid is a delightful dish that brings together the flavors of the ocean with a savory twist. This recipe features tender squid filled with a luscious shrimp mixture, all enveloped in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for dinner, this dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also makes for an impressive presentation. Let’s dive into how to create this seafood sensation!

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Stuffed Squid

This seafood stuffed squid dish is a culinary delight for several reasons. First, it combines the sweetness of shrimp with the subtle brininess of squid, creating a harmonious flavor profile. Second, the incorporation of fresh herbs like basil and oregano elevates the dish, making it a gourmet experience. Third, it’s versatile; you can bake or grill the squid for different textures. Additionally, stuffed squid with shrimp is not only delicious but also nutritious, packed with protein and essential nutrients. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or planning a special dinner, this shrimp and squid dish checks all the boxes!

Ingredients for Shrimp Stuffed Squid

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1 medium Onion
3 cloves Garlic
1 can Tomatoes
2 tablespoons Tomato Paste
1 teaspoon Oregano
1 tablespoon Basil
1/2 teaspoon Pepper Flakes
to taste Salt and Pepper
1 pound Shrimp
1 large Egg
1 cup Bread Crumbs
4 Squid (calamari)
1/2 cup Wine
to taste Parsley
1 cup Drake’s Batter Mix

How to Make Shrimp Stuffed Squid Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until light brown and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in canned tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil before reducing heat and simmering for 10 minutes.
Step 2: In a food processor, puree the shrimp until smooth. Transfer to a mixing bowl and stir in sautéed onion, garlic, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs until well combined.
Step 3: Carefully fill each squid with the shrimp stuffing, leaving about an inch space to prevent bursting. Secure the opening with a toothpick.
Step 4: Dust the stuffed squid in Drake’s batter mix. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat and brown the squid for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Step 5: Transfer the stuffed squid and any remaining tentacles into the simmering tomato sauce. Cover and cook for 20 minutes.
Step 6: In the last 10 minutes of cooking, fry the remaining tentacles for a crunchy garnish.
Step 7: Arrange the squid on a serving platter, spoon the rich tomato sauce over the top, garnish with crispy fried tentacles and chopped parsley, and serve.

Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Stuffed Squid

Keep these in mind:

Ensure the squid is fresh for the best flavor.
Don’t overstuff the squid to prevent bursting during cooking.
Experiment with different herbs to customize the stuffing.
Use high-quality tomatoes for a rich sauce.

Best Ways to Serve Shrimp Stuffed Squid

There are several delightful ways to serve this dish. Pair it with a fresh salad for a light dinner or serve it over a bed of rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. For a casual meal, consider offering grilled shrimp-stuffed calamari as part of a seafood platter with lemon wedges and garlic bread.

Savory Shrimp Stuffed Squid in Tomato Sauce - Shrimp Stuffed Squid - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Shrimp Stuffed Squid

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. This dish is also great for meal prep, as the flavors develop even more after a day in the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp Stuffed Squid

What’s the secret to perfect Shrimp Stuffed Squid?

The secret lies in using fresh ingredients and not overcooking the squid. When cooked properly, the squid remains tender while the shrimp filling adds a burst of flavor, making each bite a delight.

Can I make Shrimp Stuffed Squid ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed squid a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just cook them in the sauce when you’re ready to serve for a quick and delicious dinner option.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Shrimp Stuffed Squid?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t fill the squid too tightly and cook them over medium heat. This helps the squid cook evenly without becoming rubbery.

Variations of Shrimp Stuffed Squid You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different fillings for your stuffed squid. You can try incorporating spinach and feta for a Mediterranean twist, or add some cream cheese and crab for a gourmet shrimp stuffed squid experience. For a healthier option, consider using quinoa or brown rice in the stuffing.

For more delicious seafood recipes, check out Honey Garlic Shrimp or Seafood Stock Recipe. If you’re interested in more creative ways to use squid, visit Crispy Bang Bang Chicken for inspiration.