Calamari is a type of small squid, which can be prepared alongside pasta or in a number of delicious pasta dishes. There are many recipes available online and in various cookbooks for this tantalizing treat. Fried calamari is one of the more popular versions of this food and can be incorporated into various calamari pasta dishes as well.
A baked dish is a great way to incorporate the taste and consistency of fried calamari without the extra time or trouble. Add pasta to a casserole dish, add enough sauce to cover pasta, and top with calamari. Cover calamari with buttered bread crumbs and bake until seafood is cooked, golden brown and crisp on top, and pasta and sauce are warmed through.
One popular dish is made from ringed pasta. The pasta mimics the look of calamari rings, creating an enticing appearance to go along with the taste. Garlic, wine, and parsley are added for a light, simple, meal. Vegetables can also be tossed in if desired.
Sauces and garnishes can make calamari pasta delicious. Try calamari over spaghetti pasta with a simple sauce made from tomato sauce, wine, and parsley. Baked macaroni and calamari might be a new twist on a favorite. Any of these recipes can be served with fresh, crusty bread and butter on the side or simply served alone with an attractive garnish.
For another tomato-based dish, make a favorite spaghetti sauce recipe excluding sausage or other types of meat. Instead, combine calamari, scallops, and shrimp or any other desired seafood. Serve hot over well-drained angel hair pasta.
As noted, calamari also goes great with other types of seafood such as lobster, crab, shrimp, scallops, and even some types of fish. Many people enjoy a nice seafood stew or chowder made with a combination of several different types of seafood. The best part is that after enjoying this dish, the leftovers can be used as a simple sauce over any type of pasta.
While many popular calamari pasta dishes are served hot, there are also recipes for cold calamari pasta dishes. Pasta can be prepared as usual, drained, and then placed in the refrigerator to chill. Cook the calamari in a mixture of wine, a drizzle of olive oil, and a selection of favorite spices. Separate the sauce and the calamari and put both in the fridge until chilled through. Toss all ingredients together and serve with a tall glass of iced tea and a fresh salad. This is a great option for offering a cool, refreshing meal on a hot summer night.