Go Back

Calamari Puttanesca

This dish features tender calamari cooked in a vibrant tomato sauce infused with olives, capers, and garlic. The seafood is quickly sautéed to maintain its slight chew and briny flavor, while the sauce develops a rich, slightly chunky consistency showcasing bold Mediterranean flavors.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb calamari rings cleaned and patted dry
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes preferably fresh or high-quality canned
  • 1/2 cup black olives sliced
  • 2 tablespoons capers drained
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook gently, stirring often, until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden—about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  3. Increase the heat slightly and add the calamari rings to the skillet, spreading them out in an even layer. Sear for about 2 minutes without stirring to develop a slight char, then stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they turn opaque and tender.
  4. Add the diced tomatoes with their juices to the pan, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Stir in the sliced olives and drained capers, cooking for another 2 minutes for their flavors to infuse into the sauce.
  6. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed. Keep in mind that capers and olives are salty, so adjust carefully.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish sit for a minute to allow the flavors to settle. The calamari should be tender with a slight chew, coated in a rich, flavorful sauce.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the bold, briny combination of seafood and Mediterranean elements.

Notes

Ensure calamari is thoroughly dried before cooking to prevent splattering. Adjust cooking time based on calamari size to prevent overcooking and keep the texture tender.