Squid with Peas (Moscardini con i Piselli) Recipe

Introduction

The dish known as Squid with Peas, or “Moscardini con i Piselli,” epitomizes the delicate balance of flavors and textures found in Mediterranean cuisine. This recipe, cherished in Italian coastal culinary traditions, combines tender, lightly sautéed small squid with sweet, vibrant peas, enhanced by fresh herbs, lemon zest, and a splash of white wine. Its simplicity allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through while offering a satisfying yet light main course suitable for any season. Whether you are preparing a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant centerpiece for a dinner party, this dish exemplifies versatility and sophistication, making it a perfect choice for seafood lovers and food enthusiasts alike. As featured on Love With Recipes, this recipe emphasizes fresh ingredients and straightforward techniques to produce a wholesome, flavorful meal that highlights the best of Italian coastal flavors.

Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Large skillet or shallow frying pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Fine grater or zester for lemon zest
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Serving plates or shallow bowls
• Optional: Tongs for handling squid

Tags

• Seafood
• Italian cuisine
• Quick dinner
• Healthy
• Gluten-free
• Low carb
• Fresh herbs
• Summer dish

Serving Size

This recipe yields four generous main course servings, ideal for sharing among family or friends. Adjust the portion sizes accordingly if serving as part of a larger multi-course meal or buffet.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate — requires basic sautéing skills, precise timing to avoid overcooking seafood, and handling fresh ingredients with care. Suitable for home cooks with some experience in seafood preparation.

Allergen Information

• Seafood: Contains squid
• Possible cross-contamination: If prepared in shared kitchen spaces, check ingredients for cross-contact with shellfish or other allergens.

Dietary Preference

• Gluten-Free: Yes (assuming no gluten-containing additives)
• Low-Carb/Keto: Yes, due to low carbohydrate content from peas and seafood
• Pescatarian: Yes
• Vegetarian: No

Course

Main Course — ideal as a centerpiece on your dinner table, served with complementary sides like crusty bread or light salads.

Cuisine

Italian, Mediterranean

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preparing the Ingredients

The first step in creating an exquisite Squid with Peas dish involves meticulous preparation of all ingredients. Begin by selecting high-quality small squid, which are typically sold cleaned and ready to cook. If purchasing whole squid, ensure they are thoroughly cleaned by removing any residual innards, cartilage, and beak. Rinse the squid under cold running water and pat dry with paper towels. Slice the chili pepper into thin rounds, removing the seeds if a milder flavor is desired—this step allows control over the dish’s heat level. Mince the garlic finely, which will infuse the oil with aromatic richness during sautéing. Zest the lemon using a fine grater or microplane, capturing only the colorful outer peel, as the zest contains fragrant oils that will elevate the dish’s brightness.

2. Cooking the Squid

Heat a large skillet or shallow pan over medium heat. Once hot, add a generous drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil—about 2 to 3 tablespoons, enough to lightly coat the bottom of the pan. Allow the oil to warm for a few seconds before adding the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste. Add the sliced chili pepper and continue sautéing for another minute, stirring constantly to evenly distribute heat and flavor. This step ensures that the chili’s heat subtly infuses the oil, releasing essential oils and flavor.

3. Introducing the Squid

Gently place the cleaned squid into the pan, taking care not to overcrowd, which can cause steaming rather than sautéing. Stir the squid to coat it evenly with the garlic and chili-infused oil. Cook the squid for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to turn opaque and develop a light golden color. The squid will release some liquid, which helps to create a flavorful base for the dish. Be attentive to avoid overcooking—the squid should remain tender and slightly firm; overcooked squid becomes rubbery and unappealing. During this process, the outer surface should develop a slight caramelized hue, enhancing flavor depth.

4. Adding the Peas and Deglazing

Once the squid is lightly browned, add the peas to the pan, stirring gently to incorporate them into the mixture. Pour in the white wine, which serves as a deglazing agent, loosening browned bits stuck to the pan’s surface that are packed with flavor. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow the dish to cook uncovered for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step ensures that the peas are cooked through, tender but not mushy, and that the wine reduces slightly, concentrating its flavor. The aroma during this step is delightfully fragrant, with hints of garlic, chili, and wine mingling with the seafood’s briny scent.

5. Seasoning and Finishing Touches

Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with fine salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remember that the salt enhances the natural flavors, so add sparingly at first and adjust as needed. Once seasoned, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the fresh mint leaves—torn or chopped—and sprinkle the lemon zest over the top. The mint adds a burst of freshness that complements the seafood and peas, while the lemon zest imparts a vibrant citrus aroma and bright acidity that balances the richness of the olive oil and wine. This final touch elevates the dish, making it lively and aromatic.

6. Serving the Dish

Transfer the squid with peas onto warm serving plates or shallow bowls. Garnish with additional mint leaves for visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor. Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the tender squid and the freshness of the herbs. Accompany this dish with a slice of rustic, crusty bread—preferably toasted—to soak up the flavorful sauce. For an elegant presentation, you can also add a few lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze fresh lemon juice, enhancing the citrus notes in the dish.

Preparation Tips

• Use fresh or properly thawed frozen squid for the best texture and flavor. Fresh squid offers a slightly sweeter and more delicate taste, but high-quality frozen squid is a convenient and equally delicious alternative.
• Handle the squid gently during cooking; over-agitation can cause it to become tough. Use a gentle stirring motion when incorporating ingredients.
• Adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of chili pepper. For milder flavor, remove the seeds and membrane; for more heat, keep them intact or add red pepper flakes.
• Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end of cooking to suit your preference, especially salt and pepper.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For added depth of flavor, consider adding a small pinch of red pepper flakes during sautéing for a subtle heat.
• Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to maximize flavor and health benefits.
• If fresh mint is unavailable, substitute with basil or parsley for different aromatic profiles.
• Cooking time for squid is crucial—overcooking leads to toughness, while undercooking leaves it rubbery. Keep an eye on the color and texture.
• You can prepare the dish partially in advance; simply reheat gently on low heat before serving to maintain tenderness.

Add-ons

• Cherry Tomatoes: Add halved cherry tomatoes during the last 5 minutes for extra sweetness and color.
• Olives: Incorporate pitted black or green olives for a salty, savory accent.
• Capers: A teaspoon of capers adds a tangy, briny flavor that complements the seafood beautifully.
• Seafood Variations: Combine with other shellfish like mussels or clams for a richer seafood medley.

Side Dishes

• Crusty rustic bread or baguette
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Grilled or roasted vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant
• Light pasta or rice for a more filling meal

Improvements and Variations

• Enhance the dish by adding a splash of fish stock along with the wine for a more intense seafood flavor.
• For a creamier texture, stir in a small amount of mascarpone or heavy cream at the end.
• Use smoked paprika or saffron to introduce warm or floral notes, respectively.
• Experiment with different herbs, such as basil, parsley, or tarragon, to modify the flavor profile.

Save and Store

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of white wine or broth if necessary to prevent drying out. To avoid overcooking the squid during reheating, do so for only a few minutes. For longer storage, consider removing the squid and peas separately and reheat them just before serving to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

FAQ

Can I use frozen squid?

Yes, frozen squid is a suitable substitute for fresh as long as it is properly thawed. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and pat dry before cooking to remove excess moisture.

What if I don’t have fresh mint?

You can substitute with fresh basil or parsley, which also provide aromatic freshness. Dried herbs are not recommended for this dish as they do not impart the same vibrant flavor.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely. Increase the amount of chili pepper or add red pepper flakes during sautéing to customize the heat level to your liking.

Is this dish suitable for children?

Yes, especially if you remove the seeds from the chili or omit it altogether for a milder flavor. The dish’s gentle seafood flavor and sweet peas are generally appealing to children.

Conclusion

“Squid with Peas” exemplifies the elegance of simple Italian coastal cuisine, emphasizing fresh ingredients and precise cooking techniques to produce a dish that is both flavorful and visually appealing. Its quick preparation makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights, yet its sophisticated flavor profile ensures it will impress guests at any dinner gathering. The combination of tender squid, sweet peas, aromatic herbs, and zesty lemon creates a harmonious balance that celebrates the bounty of the sea and the freshness of herbs. As with many Italian recipes, the key lies in quality ingredients and careful attention to cooking times, ensuring that each component is perfectly cooked and seasoned. For those seeking a healthy, low-carb, and protein-rich main course, this dish stands out as a definitive choice. Remember to explore variations and add your own twist to make it uniquely yours. For more delicious recipes and culinary insights, visit Love With Recipes, where every dish is crafted with passion and culinary expertise.

References

• Traditional Italian Seafood Recipes, Italy’s Coastal Culinary Heritage, 2018.
• Fresh Seafood Cooking Techniques, by Chef Giovanni Rossi, 2020.