Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and incredibly flavorful? Look no further! This stuffed squid recipe is a fantastic option for a delicious weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and the results are truly impressive. Get ready to elevate your seafood game with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 6 medium-sized squid, cleaned and bodies reserved (tentacles can be reserved for garnish)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- ½ cup finely chopped bell pepper (any color)
- ½ cup finely chopped mushrooms
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
Get started:
- Begin by thoroughly cleaning the squid. Remove the innards, beak, and quill. Rinse well under cold water. You can reserve the tentacles for garnish if desired; simply chop them finely.
Prepare the filling:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.
- Add the mushrooms and garlic and cook for another 3 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in the cooked quinoa, feta cheese, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
Stuff the squid:
- Gently stuff the squid bodies with the quinoa mixture. Don't overfill, as the squid will shrink slightly during cooking.
Cook the stuffed squid:
- Place the stuffed squid in a baking dish. You can add a little water or broth to the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the squid is tender and the filling is heated through. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the squid.
Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with the reserved squid tentacles (if using) and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Stuffed Squid:
- Clean the squid carefully: Removing all the innards is crucial for a clean taste.
- Don't overstuff the squid: Leave a little space at the top to allow for expansion during cooking.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices.
- Check for doneness: The squid should be tender but not rubbery.
Delicious Variations:
- Add some heat: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the filling for a spicy kick.
- Use different cheese: Goat cheese or parmesan cheese would also be delicious alternatives to feta.
- Add other vegetables: Chopped zucchini, spinach, or tomatoes would make a great addition to the filling.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and balanced meal packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a more precise analysis, you can use a nutrition calculator.
This stuffed squid recipe offers a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional seafood preparations. It's a versatile dish that can be easily customized to your liking. Give it a try and experience the delightful combination of textures and flavors! Enjoy your homemade cooking!