Stewed Calamari in Tomato Sauce with Capers and Anchovies

This Stewed Calamari in Tomato Sauce is a comforting Mediterranean seafood dish bursting with rich flavors. Tender squid rings are simmered with garlic, chili, anchovies, capers, and ripe tomatoes until perfectly infused with savory goodness. Perfect as a main course with crusty bread or served over pasta, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a rustic, restaurant-quality meal.

What Is Stewed Calamari?

Stewed calamari is a traditional Mediterranean dish in which squid is slowly simmered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. The low, slow cooking tenderizes the squid while infusing it with garlic, chili, anchovy, and caper notes. It’s a popular preparation in Italian coastal cooking, often served with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Tender, flavorful squid that melts in your mouth.
• Rich tomato sauce layered with Mediterranean flavors.
• Works as both a main course or a pasta topper.
• Naturally low-carb and high-protein.
• A great make-ahead seafood recipe for entertaining.

Cooking Tips

1. Don’t overcook the squid—long, gentle simmering keeps it tender, while short high heat can make it rubbery.
2. Mash the anchovies into the oil early for a deeper umami flavor.
3. Use quality peeled tomatoes for a richer sauce—San Marzano if possible.
4. Add a splash of fish stock for even more depth.
5. Serve immediately to enjoy the squid at its tender best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Squid?

Yes! Just thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.

What Pasta Works Best with This Dish?

Spaghetti, linguine, or paccheri are great choices to pair with the rich tomato sauce.

Do I Have to Use Anchovies?

No, but they dissolve into the sauce and add a deep, savory note without tasting “fishy.”

Can I Make This Spicy?

Absolutely—simply increase the chili pepper or add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.

What Bread Pairs Well with Stewed Calamari?

A rustic Italian loaf, ciabatta, or focaccia is perfect for mopping up the sauce.

How to Freeze

Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as squid can become rubbery after thawing.

How to Store

Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve texture.

How To Make Stewed Calamari

Step 1

Step 1

Clean the Squid:
Rinse well, cut into rings, and remove the eyes and beak from the head.

Clean the Squid:
Rinse well, cut into rings, and remove the eyes and beak from the head.

Step 2

Step 2

Make the Flavor Base:
Heat olive oil in a large pan. Sauté garlic and chili pepper. Add anchovy fillets and mash until dissolved.

Make the Flavor Base:
Heat olive oil in a large pan. Sauté garlic and chili pepper. Add anchovy fillets and mash until dissolved.

Step 3

Step 3

Sear the Squid:
Increase heat, add squid, and cook for about 1 minute.

Sear the Squid:
Increase heat, add squid, and cook for about 1 minute.

Deglaze:
Add white wine and let the alcohol evaporate.

Step 4

Step 4

Deglaze:
Add white wine and let the alcohol evaporate.

Simmer the Sauce:
Stir in crushed peeled tomatoes and capers. Season with salt.

Cook Gently:
Simmer over medium-low heat for 30 minutes, adding water if needed to keep the sauce loose.

Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with bread or pasta.