Sautéed Greek Calamari: A Flavorful Mediterranean Delight

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Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this Sautéed Greek Calamari recipe. Combining tender calamari with vibrant cherry tomatoes, tangy olives, and mild banana peppers, this dish is bursting with flavors and textures. Perfect as an appetizer or a light main course, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1/5 cup red onion, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup mild banana pepper rings, drained
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 pkg Wholey® Calamari Squid Rings, thawed
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
    • Thaw the Wholey® Calamari Squid Rings if frozen and pat them dry with paper towels. Chop the red onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, drain the banana pepper rings, and pit the Kalamata olives.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics:
    • Warm the olive oil in a spacious skillet set to medium heat.
    • Add the chopped red onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften.
    • Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Cook the Vegetables:
    • Add the halved cherry tomatoes, mild banana pepper rings, and Kalamata olives to the skillet. Stir in the dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and ground black pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
  4. Cook the Calamari:
    • Increase the heat to medium-high and add the thawed calamari rings to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the calamari turns opaque and is cooked through.
    • Avoid overcooking, as calamari can turn tough and rubbery if left too long.
  5. Finish and Serve:
    • Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, if using.
    • Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the calamari.

Conclusion

This Sautéed Greek Calamari is a quick and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. The combination of tender calamari, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs makes it a perfect appetizer or light meal. Enjoy the fresh and tangy flavors of this delightful dish, and bring a touch of Greece to your table!

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