Italian Lemon Ricotta Stuffed Calamari with Tomato Basil Sauce
Stuffed with lemony ricotta, this calamari dish is enhanced by a rich tomato basil sauce, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.
Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Marinating the Filling
- 1
Combine ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, lemon zest, parmesan, garlic, salt, pepper, and parsley.
- 2
Mix
Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- 3
Refrigerate
Cover and refrigerate for about 15 minutes.
Preparing the Calamari
- 1
Clean and dry
Rinse the calamari tubes under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
- 2
Stuff
Stuff each tube with the prepared ricotta filling using a small spoon or piping bag.
Tip: Use a piping bag for easier and cleaner stuffing.
- 3
Secure
Secure the open ends with toothpicks to prevent spilling.
Tip: Do not overfill the calamari tubes as they might burst during cooking.
How to Make Italian Lemon Ricotta Stuffed Calamari with Tomato Basil Sauce
Total time: 1 h 40 min · Yields 4 servings
- 1
Sautéing
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and add stuffed calamari. Cook until lightly browned on all sides.
- 2
Sauce Preparation
In another pot, heat olive oil. Add onion and garlic, cook until soft. Stir in crushed tomatoes and basil, cook for 15 minutes.
- 3
Simmering
Add the browned calamari to the sauce, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until calamari is tender.
Chef's Tips
Further reading
Frequently asked questions
Can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the stuffing and stuff the calamari tubes ahead of time, but it's best to cook them fresh.
Can I use frozen calamari?
Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before use.
What can I use as a substitute for ricotta?
You can use cottage cheese blended until smooth, or cream cheese for a richer texture.
Is there a vegetarian version?
Substitute the calamari with hollowed-out zucchini or bell peppers for a veggie-friendly alternative.
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