Spicy calamari with pasta

Spicy Calamari with Pasta Recipe - A Quick and Tasty Delight

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

There are times when we crave a quick meal that is also delicious. The spicy calamari with pasta recipe is exactly what you are looking for! This combination of flavors will transport you to a summer dinner, even on cooler evenings.

A Bit of History
Calamari is considered a delicacy in many culinary cultures, appreciated for their unique texture and delicate flavor. This simple recipe has evolved over time, blending Mediterranean traditions with quick cooking techniques, making everyone fall in love with seafood dishes.

Ingredients you will need
- 1 kg calamari rings (try to use fresh calamari for optimal taste)
- 1-2 medium onions
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 700-800 g small tomatoes (or canned tomatoes if fresh are not available)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 300 g pasta (shells, penne, or spaghetti)
- A bunch of fresh parsley (or basil for a different aromatic note)
- A pinch of chili flakes
- 100 g dry white wine
- Salt to taste
- Cayenne pepper (optional, for an extra kick)

Cooking Technique
1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by finely chopping the onion and garlic. These ingredients are essential as they will form the base of the dish's flavor. If you want a more intense taste, let the garlic rest for a few minutes after chopping to release its aromas.

2. Sautéing the vegetables
In a large pot, add the three tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the onion becomes translucent and starts to take on a brownish hue. This is when the flavors begin to reveal themselves.

3. Adding the calamari
Add the calamari rings to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Calamari cooks quickly, so don't leave them on the heat too long, or they will become tough!

4. The wine and tomatoes
Once the calamari starts to change color, add the dry white wine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to evaporate the alcohol and concentrate the flavors. Then, add the halved or quartered tomatoes. They will add a fresh taste and wonderful texture to the dish.

5. Finishing the cooking
Let the mixture simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. It is important to check the calamari with a fork; if it goes in easily, they are done. Here you can adjust the seasonings, adding salt and chili flakes to taste.

6. Cooking the pasta
In another pot, boil the pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook in the calamari mixture. Once done, drain them well.

7. Finishing the dish
Add the cooked pasta to the pot with the calamari and mix well to combine the flavors. Leave on heat for 2 minutes so the pasta absorbs some of the delicious sauce.

8. Serving
Finally, add the chopped parsley (or basil) and mix to give a fresh note. Serve the dish warm, garnished with a few chili flakes for an extra splash of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions
These spicy calamari with pasta can be served with a fresh green salad for a crunchy contrast or with a slice of garlic toast, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. A bottle of dry white wine would complete the meal perfectly.

Tips and Variations
If you want to experiment, you can replace the parsley with fresh basil or even cilantro for a more exotic flavor. You can also add green or black olives for an additional Mediterranean touch.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen calamari?
Yes, but make sure to completely thaw and dry them well before using. Fresh calamari offers a superior taste.

- How can I tell if the calamari is well cooked?
Calamari is done when it becomes opaque and bends easily. A simple test is to check with a fork; if it goes in easily, it is done.

- What drinks pair well with this dish?
We recommend a dry white wine, but fresh lemonade or a fruity cocktail would also make a perfect combination.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to put on your apron and enjoy this simple, quick, and flavorful recipe! Bon appétit!