Print

Calamari Marinara

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Calamari Marinara is a classic Italian seafood dish featuring tender squid simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic, white wine, and chili peppers. This flavorful and comforting dish pairs beautifully with pasta or crusty bread, making it perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Marinara Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 serrano chili pepper, thinly sliced (optional, for heat)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 anchovy fillet (adds umami, optional)
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes
  • ½ tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • ½ cup dry white wine
  • 1 cup clam juice (or seafood stock)
  • 6 cups crushed Italian plum tomatoes
  • ½ tsp dried oregano

For the Calamari & Pasta:

  • 2 lbs calamari (squid), cleaned and cut into ½-inch rings
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
  • 1 tbsp freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • 1 lb pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine)

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce:

  • Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add onion, serrano chili, garlic, anchovy fillet, red pepper flakes, and salt.
  • Sauté until onions soften and garlic is fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).

2. Deglaze and Simmer:

  • Pour in the white wine, scraping the pan to deglaze.
  • Let the wine reduce by half (about 3-5 minutes).
  • Stir in clam juice, crushed tomatoes, and oregano.
  • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

3. Cook the Pasta:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook pasta until al dente, according to package instructions.
  • Drain and set aside.

4. Add the Calamari:

  • Stir calamari rings into the simmering sauce.
  • Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the calamari turns opaque and tender.
  • Be careful not to overcook, as it can become rubbery.

5. Serve:

  • Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt if needed.
  • Toss the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce until well coated.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmigiano-Reggiano.
  • Serve immediately with crusty Italian bread or garlic bread.

Find it online: https://avarecipe.com/calamari-marinara/