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Craving something with a bit of a kick? This Calamari Fra Diavolo is a spicy, seafood lover’s dream! Tender calamari is cooked in a fiery tomato sauce, infused with garlic, onions, and red pepper flakes for a dish that’s as bold as it is delicious. Perfect for a special dinner or a weekend treat, this dish is a showstopper that’s easier to make than you might think.
Ingredients
- 1 lb calamari, cleaned and sliced into rings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked pasta or crusty bread (for serving)
Serving Size
- Serves: 4
Prep Time
- 10 minutes
Cook Time
- 20 minutes
Total Time
- 30 minutes
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant. This is where the flavor magic begins — the garlic and red pepper create a robust base for the sauce.
2. Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. Let the wine simmer and reduce slightly, about 2 minutes. This step adds depth to the sauce, balancing the heat with a touch of acidity.
3. Add Tomatoes and Simmer
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. The combination of tomatoes and herbs creates a rich, savory base that pairs perfectly with the calamari.
4. Cook the Calamari
Add the sliced calamari to the simmering sauce, stirring gently to coat the rings in the spicy tomato mixture. Cook for about 3–5 minutes, just until the calamari is tender and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as calamari can become tough and rubbery if cooked for too long.
5. Serve and Garnish
Once the calamari is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the Calamari Fra Diavolo over cooked pasta or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Calamari Fra Diavolo is a celebration of bold, vibrant flavors. The tender calamari is perfectly complemented by the spicy tomato sauce, making each bite a delightful mix of heat and savory goodness. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, so you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home without spending hours in the kitchen.
Pro Tip: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference. If you’re a fan of extra spice, feel free to add a bit more!
Looking to spice up your seafood dinner? This Calamari Fra Diavolo is just the dish to satisfy your craving for something bold and delicious. With its tender calamari and fiery sauce, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress.
