Squid Salad (Insalata di Calamari)
Category: Appetizers
Servings: 4
This fresh and zesty Squid Salad is perfect for an appetizer that will impress your guests with its balanced flavors and refreshing textures. It combines tender squid, crispy vegetables, briny olives, and crunchy almond flakes, all tossed together in a light and aromatic citrus dressing. Itโs the ideal dish to start a Mediterranean-inspired meal or to enjoy on a warm summer evening.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Squid (calamari) | 350g |
| Cherry tomatoes (pomodorini ciliegino) | 250g |
| Carrots (carote) | 2 |
| Baked black olives (olive nere infornate) | 80g |
| Almond flakes (mandorle in scaglie) | 30g |
| Lemon juice (succo di limone) | ยฝ |
| Salt (sale fino) | To taste |
| Extra virgin olive oil (olio extravergine dโoliva) | To taste |
| Ground chili powder (peperoncino in polvere) | A pinch |
| Fresh mint (menta) | To taste |
| Fresh parsley (prezzemolo) | To taste |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~220 kcal |
| Protein | ~18g |
| Carbohydrates | ~14g |
| Fat | ~14g |
| Fiber | ~3g |
| Sodium | ~800mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Squid:
- Begin by cleaning and cutting the squid into bite-sized rings or strips. Place the squid pieces in a large mixing bowl. Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of salt, a dash of chili powder, and a few fresh mint leaves. Squeeze the juice from half a lemon over the squid, then toss everything together to ensure the squid is evenly coated with the seasoning and marinade. Let the squid marinate for about 20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
-
Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the squid is marinating, wash and halve the cherry tomatoes, then set them aside. Peel the carrots and slice them into thin rounds or julienne strips, depending on your preference. You want the carrots to add a fresh crunch to the salad, so thin slices work best.
-
Toast the Almonds:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the almond flakes. Toast them for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent them from burning. Once golden and fragrant, remove the almonds from the pan and set them aside to cool.
-
Grill the Squid:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to a high heat. Once hot, add the marinated squid. Grill the squid for just 2-3 minutes per side, or until a light crust forms. Be careful not to overcook the squid, as it will become tough. When cooked, transfer the squid to a large baking dish or serving bowl.
-
Assemble the Salad:
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced carrots, and pitted black olives to the dish with the grilled squid. Toss gently to combine the ingredients.
-
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, prepare the citronette by whisking together equal parts of extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice. Add a pinch of salt, finely chopped fresh parsley, and a few more mint leaves for extra flavor. Emulsify the dressing by whisking until smooth and well combined.
-
Finish and Serve:
- Pour the citronette over the squid and vegetable mixture. Toss everything gently to ensure the salad is evenly dressed. Finally, sprinkle the toasted almond flakes on top for a delightful crunch. Garnish with additional fresh mint or parsley if desired.
-
Enjoy:
- Your Squid Salad is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve immediately as a light appetizer or pair it with a refreshing white wine for the perfect Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Tips & Variations:
- Squid Variations: You can use other seafood like shrimp or octopus if squid isnโt available, but be sure to adjust the cooking time for these different seafood types.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as cucumbers, radishes, or bell peppers to increase the salad’s freshness and color.
- Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add some finely chopped fresh chili to the dressing.
This Squid Salad is a beautifully light yet flavorful dish that is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. The combination of tender squid, fresh vegetables, and zesty dressing creates a refreshing and satisfying start to any meal.
