Introduction

Calamari, also known as squid, is a popular seafood dish enjoyed around the world. While most people are familiar with fried calamari rings, calamari steak is a lesser-known but equally delicious preparation. In this post, we’ll explore what calamari steak is, how to prepare it, and why it’s worth trying.

Calamari Steak

Course: MainCuisine: MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

150

kcal

Ingredients

1 pound calamari steaks (about 4 steaks)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 lemon, cut into wedges

Directions

Rinse the calamari steaks under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
Place the calamari steaks in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, making sure they are evenly coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.
Remove the calamari steaks from the marinade and place them on the hot grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are lightly charred and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as calamari can quickly become tough and rubbery.
Transfer the grilled calamari steaks to a serving platter and squeeze fresh lemon juice over them.
Serve the calamari steaks hot, garnished with lemon wedges on the side.

What is Calamari Steak?

Calamari steak is a cut of squid that comes from the body, or mantle, of the animal. It’s a flat, rectangular piece of meat that’s often compared to a thin, tender cut of beef. Calamari steak has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a firm, meaty texture that lends itself well to various cooking methods.

Benefits of Calamari Steak

Calamari steak is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s:

Low in calories: A 3-ounce serving of calamari steak contains only about 90 calories.
High in protein: The same serving size provides around 16 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake.
Rich in nutrients: Calamari is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus.

Preparing

To prepare calamari steak, start by cleaning the squid and removing the skin, tentacles, and inner parts. Cut the body of the squid along one side to open it up, then score the inside in a diamond pattern. This scoring helps the steak cook evenly and allows marinades to penetrate the meat.

Here are a few simple ways to cook calamari steak:

Grilling: Brush the steak with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill over high heat for 1-2 minutes per side, until lightly charred and cooked through.
Pan-searing: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned calamari steak and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown and tender.
Breading and frying: Dip the steak in beaten egg, then coat with seasoned breadcrumbs. Fry in hot oil until crispy and golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.

Serving Suggestions

Calamari steak is versatile and pairs well with a variety of flavors. Try serving it with:

A squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs
A side of garlic butter or aioli for dipping
Over a bed of greens with a light vinaigrette
In a sandwich or wrap with crisp vegetables and a tangy sauce

Pairing Suggestions:

Elevate your calamari steak dining experience by pairing it with the perfect accompaniments. For a light and refreshing option, consider serving a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity and citrus notes in these wines will complement the delicate flavors of the calamari and enhance the overall taste profile of the dish.

Opt for a chilled lemonade or a sparkling water infused with fresh lemon and mint. These refreshing drinks will cleanse your palate between bites and provide a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the calamari steaks.

Nutritional Benefits:

Calamari, also known as squid, is a nutritional powerhouse that offers a wide range of health benefits. This low-calorie, high-protein seafood is an excellent source of essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus. Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy nerve cells and red blood cells, while selenium acts as a powerful antioxidant, helping to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Additionally, calamari is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and their ability to support heart and brain health. Incorporating calamari into your diet can help you maintain a balanced and nutritious lifestyle without compromising on taste or flavor.

Sustainable Sourcing:

When purchasing calamari for your steak recipe, it is essential to consider the sustainability of the seafood industry. Look for calamari that has been responsibly sourced from well-managed fisheries to ensure that you are making an environmentally conscious choice.

Many reputable seafood suppliers now offer sustainably caught calamari, and some even provide information about the fishing methods used and the origin of the catch. By supporting sustainable seafood practices, you can help protect our oceans and the delicate ecosystems that thrive within them.

Embrace the delicious and nutritious qualities of calamari steaks, and feel good about your choice to support sustainable seafood sourcing. With every bite, you are not only nourishing your body but also contributing to the preservation of our planet’s precious marine resources.

Conclusion

Calamari steak is a delicious and nutritious seafood option that’s easy to prepare and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or frying, this tender cut of squid is sure to impress. So next time you’re looking to mix up your seafood routine, give calamari steak a try – your taste buds will thank you!

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