Recipe Name: Squid with Peas (Seppie con Piselli)
Category: Main Courses (Secondi Piatti)
Serves: 4
Introduction:
If you’re in the mood for a hearty, comforting seafood dish with the perfect balance of flavors, Squid with Peas (Seppie con Piselli) is an excellent choice. This traditional Italian recipe combines tender squid with fresh peas, tomatoes, and aromatic seasonings, creating a dish that’s both savory and satisfying. Perfectly seasoned with a touch of white wine and finished with fresh parsley, this meal is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s a flavorful and filling option for lunch or dinner, and with its simplicity and ease of preparation, it is an ideal dish to enjoy with family and friends.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh peas | 500g |
| Squid (seppie), cleaned | 1kg |
| White onions | 1 |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 4 tbsp |
| Fine salt | to taste |
| Fresh parsley | to taste |
| Vegetable broth | as needed |
| Canned peeled tomatoes | 500g |
| White wine | 50g |
| Black pepper | to taste |
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by preparing your ingredients. Clean the squid if not already done so. To clean, remove the head, tentacles, and the ink sac, and discard the skin. Cut the squid into wide strips and then chop them into smaller pieces. Set aside. |
| 2 | Next, finely chop the onion. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can pulse the onion in a food processor for a finer result. Prepare the peas (if using fresh peas, shell them beforehand) and set them aside as well. |
| 3 | Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they become soft, translucent, and fragrant. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. |
| 4 | Once the onions are softened, add the squid to the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir frequently as the squid begins to release its moisture. Increase the heat slightly to allow the squid to release its liquid and cook off any excess water. |
| 5 | After the liquid from the squid has evaporated, pour in the white wine and allow it to cook off for about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the squid from sticking to the pan. |
| 6 | Add the canned peeled tomatoes to the pan. Break them up with a spoon or your hands, if necessary, to create a chunky tomato sauce. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. Add a bit of vegetable broth if the sauce seems too thick or to your desired consistency. |
| 7 | Now, stir in the peas and let everything cook together for another 10-15 minutes, or until the peas are tender and the squid has fully cooked through. If the mixture becomes too dry, you can add a splash more vegetable broth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. |
| 8 | Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove the pan from the heat. Finely chop the fresh parsley and stir it into the dish for a burst of freshness and aroma. |
| 9 | Serve immediately while still hot. You can enjoy Squid with Peas on its own, or pair it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. |
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350-400 kcal |
| Protein | 40g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Fats | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 90mg |
| Sodium | 700mg |
| Potassium | 700mg |
| Vitamin A | 10% of RDI |
| Vitamin C | 15% of RDI |
| Iron | 15% of RDI |
Tips for Success:
-
Choose fresh squid: When making Squid with Peas, the key to success is using fresh squid. If you can’t find fresh squid, frozen is an acceptable substitute, but be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
-
Adjust the seasoning: Taste the dish as you go along and adjust the seasoning. Salt, pepper, and parsley are the main seasonings, but you can also add a pinch of chili flakes for some heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.
-
Use homemade broth: If you have the time, homemade vegetable broth adds extra flavor to the dish. However, store-bought broth works just fine, too. You can also use fish stock for a more seafood-forward flavor.
-
Don’t overcook the squid: Squid can become rubbery if overcooked. Make sure to simmer it just long enough to become tender and fully cooked, but avoid extended cooking times.
-
Serve with bread: For an authentic Italian experience, serve your Squid with Peas with some crusty Italian bread. This allows you to enjoy the delicious sauce with every bite.
Conclusion:
This recipe for Squid with Peas is a classic Italian dish that brings the sweet, tender squid together with fresh peas in a savory, tomato-based sauce. It’s an easy-to-make, healthy, and hearty option that is perfect for a family meal or a special dinner. With its simple yet flavorful combination of ingredients and a few expert tips, you can create a memorable dish that will impress your guests or satisfy your family. Enjoy the flavors of Italy in your own kitchen with this delightful recipe.
