Recipe Name: Squid with Peas (Moscardini con i Piselli)
Category: Main Courses
Servings: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Squid (small ones, cleaned) | 800g |
| Peas (fresh or frozen) | 250g |
| White wine | 100ml |
| Fresh chili pepper | 1 |
| Garlic clove | 1 |
| Fresh mint leaves | 6 |
| Lemon zest | 1 |
| Extra virgin olive oil | q.b. |
| Fine salt | q.b. |
| Black pepper | q.b. |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by preparing the fresh ingredients. Slice the chili pepper into thin rounds, removing the seeds for a milder taste if desired. Mince the garlic finely and zest the lemon to extract its aromatic oils.
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Cook the Squid: In a large skillet or shallow pan, heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the garlic and sauté until it releases a fragrant aroma, about 1-2 minutes. Next, add the sliced chili pepper and continue sautéing for another minute.
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Add the Squid: Gently add the cleaned squid to the pan. Stir to coat the squid in the oil and garlic mixture, and allow them to cook for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to lightly brown. The squid will release some liquid, so ensure it doesn’t burn or stick to the bottom of the pan.
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Add the Peas: Once the squid has lightly browned, add the peas to the pan. Stir to combine, and then pour in the white wine. The wine will help deglaze the pan, lifting the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, uncovered, so that the peas cook through and the flavors meld together.
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Season and Finish: Taste the dish and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the fresh mint leaves and lemon zest to infuse the dish with a refreshing aroma and vibrant flavors.
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Serve: Your squid with peas is now ready! Transfer the dish to serving plates and garnish with a few more mint leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot, ideally accompanied by a slice of rustic bread to soak up the savory sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the subtle brininess of the squid and the sweetness of the peas. For an extra touch, serve with a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad.
Tips for Success:
- If you don’t have fresh peas, frozen peas work equally well and will save you time.
- For added depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit more heat.
- Be sure not to overcook the squid, as it can become tough and rubbery. A quick sauté ensures it stays tender and juicy.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
This Squid with Peas is a flavorful and light dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an elegant entrée for special occasions. The combination of tender squid, sweet peas, and fresh mint creates a delicate, yet satisfying meal.
