Hey there, food lovers! There’s something about the first whiff of the sea that fills my heart with nostalgia. I remember summers spent by the coast, the salty breeze playing with my hair, and the one dish that became synonymous with those magical days: Squid Ink Pasta. It’s a dish that brings the ocean’s flavors right to your kitchen, and it’s such a stunning centerpiece for any dinner table! The rich black hue of the pasta is enough to wow your guests, while the tender calamari adds an irresistible touch of luxury.

Not only is this Squid Ink Pasta Recipe with Calamari a feast for the eyes, but it’s also incredibly easy to whip up. So, whether you’re planning a cozy date night at home or just want to indulge in something special, this recipe is definitely a keeper!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unique and visually stunning dish that impresses without the fuss.
Quick to make—perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Delivers bold, comforting flavors that transport you to a seaside restaurant.
Can easily be adapted for different dietary preferences.
Budget-friendly, especially if you find some good deals on calamari!

Ingredients

You won’t need a ton of fancy ingredients for this delightful recipe! Here’s what you’ll need:

8 oz squid ink pasta (spaghetti or linguine works great)
1 lb fresh calamari, cleaned and sliced into rings
3 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced (fresh adds so much more punch than powdered)
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s cook up something spectacular!

Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your squid ink pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the rest. Trust me, that pasta water is liquid gold!
Prepare the Calamari: While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Just wait for that sweet onion aroma to fill the kitchen!
Add Garlic and Spice: Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for another minute, being careful not to burn the garlic. This is where the air gets fragrant, and you might forget you’re at home!
Cook the Calamari: Now, add the sliced calamari to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn opaque. Don’t overcook; we want them tender!
Tomato Time: Add the cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook for another 2 minutes, until they start to soften. This adds such a lovely burst of juicy flavor to the dish.
Combine: Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the calamari mixture. Add a bit of that reserved pasta water to help create a silky sauce. Mix well to ensure every noodle is coated!
Finish Up: Toss in the fresh parsley, lemon zest, and juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a final toss, and then taste for seasoning. Adjust as needed!
Serve Hot: Plate it up! For an elegant touch, I like to garnish with extra parsley and a few lemon wedges on the side.

Pro Tips & Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few tips and variations to make this dish your own:

Add Some Greens: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or arugula right before serving for a splash of color and nutrition.
Get Creative with Protein: Swap calamari with shrimp or scallops if you prefer a different seafood option!
Spice it Up: Experiment with spices! A pinch of saffron or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a unique twist.
Make it Creamy: If you’re feeling indulgent, mix in some heavy cream or crème fraîche for a richer sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This Squid Ink Pasta with Calamari shines on its own, but I love serving it with a simple side salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. A crusty loaf of garlic bread is a must for mopping up all that delightful sauce—it makes for the perfect bite every time! And for drinks, a crisp white wine pairs beautifully with the dish, enhancing those oceanic flavors even more.

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? You lucky star! Here’s how to store and reheat your pasta without losing any fabulous flavors:

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freeze: To freeze, place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container. Try to consume within 1 month for best flavor.
Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy your pasta again, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or stock. You want to warm it through without overcooking the calamari!

FAQs

Can I use frozen calamari for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen calamari works just as well. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge or under cold water before cooking.

Is squid ink pasta hard to find?

Not at all! Many grocery stores carry it now, especially in the pasta aisle or specialty stores. You can also find it online if you’re in a pinch.

What should I serve this dish with?

I love pairing it with a light salad and garlic bread. A glass of white wine can elevate the meal too!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can definitely create a vegetarian version by substituting calamari with roasted vegetables or mushrooms to maintain that hearty texture.

Does the squid ink have a strong taste?

Not really! Squid ink has a briny, slightly ocean-like flavor, adding depth without overpowering the dish. It enhances the seafood and complements the overall taste beautifully.

Conclusion

And there you have it! A glorious plate of Squid Ink Pasta with Calamari that’s bound to impress anyone you’re sharing it with. I hope you have as much fun making this dish as I do! Don’t forget to connect with me and let me know how yours turns out, or share your own delicious twists on this classic! Happy cooking, my friends!