The delightful scent of sautéed garlic and ripe tomatoes fills the air as I prepare to share one of my favorite seafood dishes: Calamari Puttanesca. This vibrant Italian recipe showcases tender calamari swimming in a rich and tangy sauce bursting with flavors from olives, capers, and a hint of anchovy. It’s a dish that reflects the essence of Mediterranean cooking—simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.
As the first signs of spring approach, I find myself yearning for meals that offer a taste of sunshine. Calamari Puttanesca fits the bill perfectly, making it an ideal choice for both cozy weeknight dinners and gatherings with friends. Plus, the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can easily swap ingredients to cater to your preferences or dietary needs.
Join me in creating this comforting dish that not only brings joy to the dinner table but also transports you to the charming streets of Italy. Let’s dive into the enticing world of flavors that await you!
Why will you love Calamari Puttanesca?
Delightfully Versatile: This dish adapts to your taste—feel free to swap out ingredients like anchovies or pasta types for a personal touch.
Rich, Tangy Sauce: The combination of olives, capers, and garlic creates a sauce that’s bursting with flavor, making your meal unforgettable.
Quick Preparation: Ready in just over 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights while still impressing guests!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether served on its own or over pasta, this dish is sure to win hearts at any gathering.
Mediterranean Essence: Experience a taste of the beautiful Italian coast, enhancing any table setting with warm, inviting flavors.
Essential Calamari Puttanesca Ingredients
For the Calamari
• Calamari – 1 lb (450g) fresh or frozen, cleaned and cut into rings; tender seafood that’ll soak up the sauce’s flavors.
• Olive Oil – 2 tbsp for sautéing calamari; adds richness and depth to the overall dish.
• Garlic – 2 cloves minced; enhances flavor, with fresh cloves providing the best aroma.
• Red Chili Flakes – ½ tsp (optional); adds a kick of heat, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – 2 tbsp to prepare the sauce; keep the richness consistent between the moments of flavor.
• Onion – 1 medium finely chopped; brings sweetness and depth, but can be substituted with shallots.
• Garlic – 3 cloves minced; this added amount greatly enhances the sauce’s aroma and taste.
• Canned Crushed Tomatoes – 1 cup; forms the heart of the sauce, providing a rich base for the dish.
• Black Olives – ½ cup, preferably Kalamata, roughly chopped; infuses briny goodness—green olives can work as a substitute.
• Capers – 2 tbsp drained and rinsed; contributes a tangy punch that brightens the sauce.
• Anchovy Fillets – 2, finely minced (optional); adds a depth of umami flavor, great for seafood lovers.
• Dried Oregano – ½ tsp; enhances the Italian character of the sauce, though fresh oregano is a lovely alternative.
• Sugar – ½ tsp (optional); balances the acidity of the tomatoes, giving the sauce a harmonious flavor.
For Serving
• Fresh Parsley – 2 tbsp chopped for garnish; provides freshness and a lovely pop of color.
• Pasta – 12 oz (340g) spaghetti, linguine, or penne; serves as a satisfying base to accompany the flavorful calamari.
• Crusty Bread – perfect for dipping into the sauce, transforming every last drop into a delicacy.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – optional for serving; adds a creamy texture that beautifully contrasts the rich flavors.
Transform your dining experience with this delightful Calamari Puttanesca!
How to Make Calamari Puttanesca
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Prepare Calamari:
Thaw the calamari if frozen and pat it dry. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté 2 cloves of minced garlic and the red chili flakes until fragrant, about 1 minute. -
Add Calamari:
Toss in the calamari rings and sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they become opaque—watch carefully to avoid overcooking! Remove the calamari from the skillet and set aside. -
Make Puttanesca Sauce:
In the same skillet, pour in the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the additional 3 cloves of minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute. -
Combine Ingredients:
Next, add 1 cup of canned crushed tomatoes, ½ cup of chopped Kalamata olives, 2 tablespoons of rinsed capers, and 2 minced anchovy fillets if using. Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, optional extra chili flakes, and ½ teaspoon of sugar. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened. -
Finish with Calamari:
Return the cooked calamari to the skillet, gently tossing it into the sauce. Allow everything to simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully. -
Serve:
While the sauce is finishing, cook 12 ounces of pasta according to the package instructions. Toss the pasta with the calamari and sauce or serve it separately alongside crusty bread for dipping. Garnish with chopped parsley and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if you desire.
Optional: Serve with a light side salad to complement the dish’s rich flavors.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Calamari Puttanesca?
Elevate your meal with these delightful accompaniments that enhance the rich, flavorful essence of this Italian seafood dish.
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Garlic Bread: Crisp and fragrant, it’s perfect for soaking up every drop of the savory Puttanesca sauce.
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Arugula Salad: A light, peppery salad with a citrus vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables brings an earthy sweetness that complements the savory sauce beautifully, making every bite a delight.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or a dry Sauvignon Blanc pairs exquisitely, balancing the brininess of the calamari.
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Lemon Wedges: Squeezing fresh lemon over the dish brightens the flavors, adding a zesty punch that enhances the overall tasting experience.
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Tiramisu: Conclude your meal with this classic Italian dessert, offering a sweet ending that melts in your mouth and wraps up the meal perfectly.
Expert Tips for Calamari Puttanesca
- Perfectly Cooked Calamari: Avoid rubbery texture by sautéing the calamari over high heat for 2-3 minutes until opaque. Don’t overcook!
- Flavorful Sauce: For a deeper flavor, simmer the sauce longer, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully.
- Ingredient Freshness: Use fresh garlic and quality tomatoes for the best Calamari Puttanesca—it makes a noticeable difference!
- Vegetarian Option: Omit anchovies and replace them with extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a hearty dish.
- Pasta Choice: Experiment with different pasta shapes for a unique twist; make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Variations & Substitutions for Calamari Puttanesca
Feel free to get creative and adapt this recipe to your taste and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free spaghetti or linguine to enjoy this dish without gluten, while still maintaining the delightful flavors.
- Vegetarian Delight: Omit the anchovies and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a hearty twist without losing richness.
- Seafood Medley: Swap calamari with shrimp or scallops for a delightful seafood variation that brings additional flavors and textures to the dish.
- Zesty Lemon: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end of cooking for an extra burst of flavor that brightens the entire dish.
- Herb Variety: Replace parsley with fresh basil or dill for different herbal notes that add a new layer of aroma and taste to your meal.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the chili flakes or add a chopped jalapeño to the sauce for those who love a little extra heat in their seafood dishes.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a luxurious, creamy version of Calamari Puttanesca that pairs beautifully with pasta.
- Roasted Garlic: For a richer flavor, roast the garlic before adding it to the dish, transforming its pungency into a sweet, caramelized note.
Let your culinary imagination run wild, and transform your Calamari Puttanesca experience!
How to Store and Freeze Calamari Puttanesca
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, ensuring the calamari doesn’t overcook.
Freezer: If you have leftover sauce, it can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Calamari Puttanesca out for more than 2 hours at room temperature to ensure food safety.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce moist and prevent the calamari from toughening up.
Make Ahead Options
Calamari Puttanesca is a fantastic candidate for meal prep, allowing you to save precious time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the Puttanesca sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its rich flavors. For the best results, cook the calamari fresh just before serving to ensure it remains tender—this only takes about 5 minutes! On the day you’re ready to enjoy your meal, sauté the calamari, combine it with the pre-made sauce, and serve alongside cooked pasta. This way, you’ll still have that delightful combination of flavors without spending significant time in the kitchen!
Calamari Puttanesca Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best calamari?
Absolutely! Look for fresh calamari that is firm to the touch with a slight sheen. If using frozen, ensure it’s been properly thawed and is free from ice crystals. Avoid calamari with dark spots, as this indicates poor quality.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store your Calamari Puttanesca in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the calamari tender.
Can I freeze Calamari Puttanesca?
Absolutely! If you have leftover sauce, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the sauce to cool completely, then portion it into containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
What are some common issues when making this dish?
One common challenge is overcooking the calamari, which can lead to a rubbery texture. To avoid this, cook the calamari quickly over high heat for just 2-3 minutes until it turns opaque. If the sauce becomes too thick during simmering, add a tablespoon of water or broth to loosen it up.
Is Calamari Puttanesca suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
For those with seafood allergies, it’s best to skip the calamari. The dish can easily be transformed into a vegetarian option by eliminating the calamari and anchovies, while adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini. Ensure the pasta used is gluten-free if needed!
Savor Calamari Puttanesca: A Hearty Italian Delight!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Thaw and pat dry the calamari. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté minced garlic and red chili flakes until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add calamari rings and sauté for 2-3 minutes until opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the additional minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add canned crushed tomatoes, chopped olives, rinsed capers, and minced anchovies if using. Sprinkle oregano, optional chili flakes, and sugar. Stir and let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Return the cooked calamari to the skillet, tossing it into the sauce. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Toss with calamari and sauce or serve separately. Garnish with chopped parsley and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.