Description
Spice up your dinner table with Calamari Fra Diavolo! This Italian seafood classic features tender squid simmered in a rich, spicy tomato sauce infused with garlic, red wine, and fresh herbs. Perfect for seafood lovers and easy to make for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz./800 g) whole peeled tomatoes
- 1/2 cup (125 ml) fish broth or bottled clam juice
- 1/2 cup (125 ml) full-bodied red wine
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 1/2 lb. (1.25 kg) cleaned squid, bodies cut into 1/2-inch (12-mm) rings and tentacles coarsely chopped
- 1/3 cup (15 g) chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
- Salt and freshly ground pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a small pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until tender and golden, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Stir in the whole peeled tomatoes with their juices, breaking them up with the back of a spoon.
- Build Flavor:
- Add fish broth (or clam juice), red wine, 2 tablespoons of oregano, and red pepper flakes to the pot.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, for 15–20 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
- Cook the Calamari:
- Add the cleaned squid to the pot, stir to combine, and cover.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the squid is very tender.
- Finish the Dish:
- Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon oregano and chopped parsley.
- Season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve the Calamari Fra Diavolo immediately with crusty bread, pasta, or over steamed rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Notes
- Adjust the Heat: For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
- Substitutions: If fish broth or clam juice is unavailable, substitute with chicken broth for a milder flavor.
- Make It Ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time. Add the squid just before serving for the freshest results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Protein: 37 g
