Calamari Salad: A Fresh and Zesty Mediterranean Delight

A Calamari Salad is a perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a light appetizer or a refreshing main course. With its combination of tender calamari, fresh vegetables, and zesty dressing, this salad is a true celebration of Mediterranean flavors. The olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice give the salad its vibrant taste, while the olives and celery add a satisfying crunch. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare.

In this article, we’ll guide you through making this Calamari Salad from start to finish, including tips for advanced techniques, storage recommendations, and dietary adaptations. By the end of this guide, you’ll be ready to serve up a fresh and flavorful calamari salad that will impress your guests.

For more Mediterranean-inspired recipes, check out these Mediterranean salad ideas or this easy calamari recipe.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

This simple yet flavorful Calamari Salad recipe combines fresh calamari with a tangy, lemony dressing. The optional anchovies and mushrooms enhance the overall Mediterranean experience, but they can be left out if desired.

Calamari Salad Recipe: A Zesty Mediterranean Delight

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 30-45 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Calamari Salad is a light and refreshing Mediterranean-inspired dish made with tender calamari, crisp celery, savory olives, and zesty lemon juice. It’s perfect as an appetizer or a light main course, with the option to add anchovies and mushrooms for extra depth of flavor. The white wine and olive oil dressing gives it a bright, tangy finish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2–1/2 pounds cleaned fresh or frozen calamari (squid), thawed
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 3 anchovy fillets, minced (optional)
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh Italian parsley
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or dry vermouth
• 1 can (8 ounces) mushroom stems and pieces, drained (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup pitted Italian olives, sliced
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice

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Instructions

• Cook the calamari: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the calamari and cook for about 1-2 minutes, just until they are tender. Be careful not to overcook them, as calamari can become rubbery if cooked for too long. Drain and set aside to cool.
• Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced anchovies (if using), garlic, dry white wine or vermouth, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
• Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked calamari, chopped celery, sliced olives, and minced fresh parsley. If using, add the drained mushroom stems and pieces.
• Toss with dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
• Chill: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Serve: Serve chilled as an appetizer or light main course.

Notes

• If you prefer a lighter version, you can skip the anchovies and mushrooms.
• This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving.
• You can add other vegetables such as red onion or bell peppers for added crunch and flavor.
• If you want extra flavor, drizzle some extra lemon juice before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Salad
• Method: Boiling, Tossing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 cup)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Calamari Salad Recipe

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Calamari: If you’re using frozen calamari, thaw it by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water. Slice the calamari into rings if they aren’t pre-sliced.
2. Cook the Calamari: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the calamari and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until they turn opaque and tender. Be careful not to overcook the calamari, as it can become tough.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, anchovies (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir in the white wine or vermouth. The dressing should have a tangy, slightly garlicky flavor with a hint of saltiness from the anchovies.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked calamari, chopped celery, sliced olives, and mushroom stems (if using). Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
5. Finish the Salad: Sprinkle the minced parsley over the salad and give it one final toss. Allow the salad to sit for about 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
6. Serve: Serve the Calamari Salad chilled or at room temperature, as a refreshing appetizer or light main dish. Garnish with additional parsley or lemon wedges for extra flavor.

Advanced Techniques

While the basic recipe is simple and delicious, you can elevate your Calamari Salad with these advanced techniques for extra flavor and presentation.

Grill the Calamari

For a smoky, charred flavor, consider grilling the calamari instead of sautéing it. Simply skewer the calamari rings and grill them for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly charred. This adds depth of flavor and gives the salad a slightly more rustic, Mediterranean feel.

Add Roasted Vegetables

To enhance the texture and flavor of the salad, roast vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant. These roasted vegetables will add richness and a touch of sweetness that complements the briny olives and tangy lemon dressing.

Make a Herbed Vinaigrette

Instead of using the basic lemon-garlic dressing, you can make a more complex vinaigrette by adding fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme. These herbs will bring a Mediterranean aroma and make the dressing even more aromatic and flavorful.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

A Calamari Salad is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, here are some tips to keep it at its best.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will last for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the calamari may release some moisture as it sits, so the salad may become slightly watery. To avoid this, you can drain excess liquid before serving.

How to Make Ahead

You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Cook the calamari and prepare the dressing, but don’t assemble the salad until just before serving. This will ensure the calamari stays tender and doesn’t become over-marinated. Store the ingredients separately in airtight containers, and combine them right before serving.

Freezing

While it’s not recommended to freeze the assembled salad, you can freeze the cooked calamari separately. Store the cooked calamari in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the calamari overnight in the fridge and assemble the salad.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

This Calamari Salad can easily be adapted for various dietary needs and preferences.

Gluten-Free Version

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any wheat or gluten-based ingredients. However, if you add bread or crackers for serving, make sure to choose gluten-free options.

Vegetarian Version

To make this recipe vegetarian, you can replace the calamari with a variety of fresh, roasted vegetables or even use marinated artichokes for a similar texture. The anchovies can be omitted or replaced with a plant-based substitute like miso paste for a salty umami flavor.

Dairy-Free Version

The recipe is already dairy-free, so no changes are necessary. Just be sure to avoid any creamy dressings or toppings that may contain dairy.

Low-Carb Version

This recipe is naturally low-carb, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. You can further reduce carbs by skipping the olives or replacing them with a lower-carb vegetable.

FAQs About Calamari Salad

1. Can I use frozen calamari instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen calamari works perfectly fine. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the salad.

2. Can I substitute the anchovies?

If you don’t like anchovies, you can omit them, or substitute them with a small amount of Worcestershire sauce, miso paste, or capers for a similar salty flavor.

3. Can I add more vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, tomatoes, or cucumber for added freshness and crunch.

4. How can I make this salad spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, add some sliced red chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or salad. This will give the salad an extra kick.

5. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, the salad can be made ahead. Just assemble the ingredients without the dressing and refrigerate. When ready to serve, add the dressing and toss the salad.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Calamari Salad is a delightful Mediterranean dish that combines tender calamari with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing. It’s the perfect appetizer or light meal that’s both flavorful and healthy. Whether you enjoy it with or without the anchovies, this salad will become a go-to recipe for any seafood lover. By following the tips for advanced techniques, storage, and dietary adaptations, you can make this dish to suit any occasion or dietary need.

So, grab your calamari and get ready to enjoy this vibrant, fresh, and delicious Calamari Salad!