There’s a special kind of magic in a dish that’s both rustic and full of Mediterranean energy.
This Calamari Puttanesca brings the sea to your table with tender squid rings simmered in a garlicky tomato sauce bursting with briny olives and a hint of chili heat.
It’s fast, vibrant, and perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels luxurious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish combines the bold, salty flavors of classic puttanesca with the delicate sweetness of calamari.
It cooks in minutes — fast enough for a busy night yet flavorful enough to impress guests.
The sauce is simple, bright, and balanced, using pantry staples like tomatoes, garlic, and olives.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Fresh calamari rings cook quickly and absorb the rich sauce beautifully.
Diced tomatoes form the tangy base of the puttanesca sauce.
Black olives add a briny, salty depth that defines this Italian classic.
Garlic and chili flakes bring warmth and spice without overpowering.
Olive oil ties everything together with smooth, Mediterranean richness.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Pat the calamari dry before cooking to avoid excess liquid.
Cook calamari just until opaque — overcooking makes it rubbery.
Use good-quality olive oil and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
Add more chili flakes for extra heat or reduce for a milder version.
A sprinkle of parsley at the end brightens the whole dish.
How to Make Calamari Puttanesca
Step 1 – Sauté the garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant and lightly golden, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Step 2 – Build the tomato base
Add diced tomatoes with their juices.
Stir, breaking them up slightly with a spoon, and let simmer 3–4 minutes until thickened and aromatic.
Step 3 – Add the olives and spice
Stir in sliced olives and chili flakes.
Let cook another minute so the flavors meld together.
Step 4 – Cook the calamari
Increase heat to medium-high and add the calamari rings.
Cook gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring until the rings turn opaque and tender.
Step 5 – Season and finish
Add salt to taste and stir lightly to combine.
Cook for another minute to let the flavors infuse.
Step 6 – Serve hot
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
The sauce should coat the calamari perfectly, bursting with bold, coastal flavors.
What to Serve Them With
Toss with spaghetti or linguine for a seafood pasta dinner.
Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the rich tomato sauce.
Pair with a simple green salad and a glass of chilled white wine.
Variations / Substitutions
Add capers for extra briny punch.
Swap calamari for shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist.
Use cherry tomatoes for a fresher, sweeter sauce.
Stir in a handful of spinach just before serving for color and nutrition.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat — avoid boiling to keep the calamari tender.
This dish doesn’t freeze well, as calamari can toughen when reheated from frozen.
FAQs
Can I use frozen calamari?
Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
Can I add capers to this recipe?
Absolutely, capers enhance the briny flavor typical of puttanesca sauce.
How can I prevent overcooking the calamari?
Cook only until opaque, usually 2–3 minutes — any longer can make it chewy.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the tomato-olive sauce ahead and add calamari right before serving.
What kind of olives work best?
Black or Kalamata olives provide the best flavor balance.
Is this recipe spicy?
It’s mildly spicy, but you can adjust chili flakes to your liking.
Can I serve this over pasta?
Yes, it’s fantastic tossed with pasta or served over rice.
What’s a good wine pairing?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements it perfectly.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger skillet and avoid overcrowding when cooking the calamari.
How do I know the calamari is done?
The rings will turn from translucent to opaque white and stay tender when lightly pressed.
Final Thoughts
This Calamari Puttanesca is a celebration of bold, simple flavors that come together in under 20 minutes.
It’s the kind of meal that tastes like summer by the sea — bright, briny, and unforgettable.
Whether served over pasta or enjoyed with bread, it’s sure to become a favorite weeknight indulgence.
