Name: Savory Stuffed Squid with Rice and Herbs for Family Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 12 pieces Small Squid (The main ingredient, providing a tender outer shell for the stuffing.); 1 cup Rice (Slightly undercooked for optimal results.); to taste Fresh Herbs (e.g., parsley, dill) (Optional dried herbs as a substitute.); Olive Oil (For drizzling; extra virgin recommended.); 2 cups Tomato Sauce (Can be swapped with crushed or diced tomatoes.); Lemon (Optional, to brighten the dish.)

The aroma of a bubbling tomato sauce infused with fresh herbs instantly transports me to the sun-soaked shores of Greece. Today, I’m excited to share my take on a beloved Mediterranean classic: Stuffed Squid with Rice and Herbs, also known as Kalamaria Gemista. This hearty dish doesn’t just offer a satisfying meal; it transforms humble squid into an extraordinary centerpiece that’s perfect for family gatherings. With just a bit of prep time, you’ll bask in a flavor-packed experience that elevates an often-overlooked seafood option into something truly special. Plus, it’s easily adaptable—you can stick with the classic rice and herbs or jazz it up with optional spinach or minced meat. Are you ready to dive into this delicious culinary adventure?

Why Love Stuffed Squid with Rice?

Unique Twist: This classic Mediterranean dish offers a delightful twist on your usual family meals with tender squid enveloping a flavorful rice mixture.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with the savory goodness of fresh herbs, bringing the taste of the sun-drenched Greek coast straight to your table.
Versatile Options: Not a fan of just rice? You can easily add spinach or mix in minced meat for an extra hearty version.
Simple Elegance: With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll impress your family and friends without spending all day in the kitchen.
Perfect for Gatherings: Serve it at your next family gathering alongside a fresh Greek salad or crusty bread, and watch it disappear! Let’s not forget to check out equally enticing recipes like Curry Soup Dumplings that are crowd-pleasers too.

Stuffed Squid with Rice and Herbs Ingredients

For the Stuffing
• Small Squid (12 pieces) – The main ingredient, providing a tender outer shell for the stuffing; if larger, consider using 1-2 per person.
• Rice (1 cup) – Serves as a hearty base that brings texture to the stuffing; ensure it’s slightly undercooked for optimal results.
• Fresh Herbs (e.g., parsley, dill) (to taste) – Infuses the dish with freshness and aromatic goodness; if fresh isn’t available, dried herbs are a suitable alternative.
• Olive Oil (for drizzling) – Adds rich flavor; opt for extra virgin for the best taste.
For the Sauce
• Tomato Sauce (approximately 2 cups) – Enhances moisture and flavor during baking; can be swapped with crushed or diced tomatoes for more texture.
To Serve
• Lemon (to serve) – Serves as a brightener, adding zest to the dish; an optional yet delightful finishing touch.

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the adventure of making this delightful stuffed squid with rice and herbs!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Stuffed Squid with Rice and Herbs

Step 1: Preparation of Squid
Begin by thoroughly cleaning the small squid under cold running water. Remove any innards and carefully pull out the beaks from the bodies. Ensure that you keep the squid intact for stuffing. Once cleaned, set them aside on a paper towel to drain excess water while you move on to cooking the rice.

Step 2: Cook Rice
In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a rolling boil, then stir in 1 cup of rice. Cook the rice until it’s slightly underdone—about 12 minutes—then drain it in a colander and transfer it back to the pot. Allow the rice to cool for about 10 minutes, letting it rest while you prepare the stuffing mixture.

Step 3: Make Stuffing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rice with your choice of fresh herbs, such as parsley and dill, and drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper, stirring well until everything is mixed uniformly. This flavorful stuffing will bring a delightful taste to your Stuffed Squid with Rice and Herbs.

Step 4: Stuff Squid
Now it’s time to carefully fill each squid with the rice and herb mixture. Using a small spoon, gently stuff each squid, making sure to leave about half an inch at the top to allow the rice to expand as it cooks. Avoid overstuffing, as this can cause the squid to burst during baking. Set the stuffed squids aside on a plate for the next step.

Step 5: Prepare Sauce
Take a suitable baking dish and pour about 1 cup of tomato sauce, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This will provide a flavorful base that infuses the squids as they bake. If you’d like, reserve some additional sauce to pour over the stuffed squid later, ensuring they remain moist as they cook in the oven.

Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for optimal cooking temperature. Carefully place the stuffed squid on top of the tomato sauce in the baking dish, then pour the remaining sauce over them. Drizzle another splash of olive oil on top for richness. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until the squid is tender and cooked through, signaling it’s ready to serve.

Step 7: Serve
After baking, remove the stuffed squid from the oven and allow them to cool for about 5 minutes. Serve them warm, garnished with lemon wedges on the side, which will brighten the dish even more. These delectable Stuffed Squid with Rice and Herbs are sure to be a hit at your dinner table!

Expert Tips for Stuffed Squid with Rice and Herbs

Don’t Overstuff: Ensure you leave some space at the top when filling the squid. Overstuffing can cause them to burst during baking, ruining your presentation.
Use Fresh Herbs: For the most vibrant flavor, always opt for fresh herbs when making Stuffed Squid with Rice and Herbs. Dried herbs can be a decent substitute but won’t deliver the same taste.
Moisture Matters: Make sure the tomato sauce is well-distributed at the bottom of the baking dish. This not only adds flavor but helps keep the squid moist while they cook.
Perfect Cooking Time: Be mindful of the baking time. Cooking for 30-40 minutes ensures the squid is tender without turning rubbery.
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative! Adding spinach or minced meat to the rice mixture can elevate your stuffed squid and cater to different tastes in your family.

What to Serve with Stuffed Squid with Rice and Herbs

The delightful flavors of this Mediterranean favorite invite you to create the perfect meal pairing.

Greek Salad: This fresh, crisp salad featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty squid.
Crusty Bread: Ideal for soaking up the rich tomato sauce, a slice of warm, crusty bread will enhance the dining experience.
Lemon-Garlic Green Beans: A side of sautéed green beans with zesty lemon and garlic adds a vibrant touch that balances the dish. Serve them alongside for a pop of flavor!
Roasted Potatoes: Crisp, roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs create a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the stuffed squid. These fluffy bites are truly irresistible.
Chickpea Stew: A hearty, spiced chickpea stew can complement the seafood, providing an earthy, comforting richness that rounds out the meal beautifully.
White Wine Spritzer: A light and refreshing drink, this spritzer enhances the dish without overpowering the delicate flavors of the squid. Perfect for warm evenings!

Stuffed Squid with Rice and Herbs Variations

Customize this dish to suit your family’s tastes and enjoy a world of flavors in every bite!

Quinoa Swap: Use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free, nutty twist that adds protein.
Spinach Infusion: Mix in cooked spinach to the stuffing for a nutritious boost and a vibrant pop of color.
Minced Meat Addition: Substitute a portion of rice with minced lamb or beef for a heartier filling that packs extra flavor.
Herb Harmony: Experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or mint for a unique fragrance that brightens the dish.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to introduce a delightful heat that complements the savory flavors.
Cheesy Delight: Fold in crumbled feta or mozzarella into the stuffing for a creamy texture that melts beautifully.
Citrusy Zing: Toss in some lemon zest to the rice mixture for an uplifting citrus aroma that brightens every bite.
Tomato Variance: Use roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes for a sweeter flavor and a chunkier sauce that enhances the dish’s rustic charm.

By blending these variations into your Stuffed Squid with Rice and Herbs, you can create a personalized dining experience that keeps the whole family coming back for more! And don’t forget to explore other mouthwatering recipes like Peruvian Chicken Rice for even more culinary inspiration!

Storage Tips for Stuffed Squid with Rice and Herbs

Fridge: Keep leftover stuffed squid in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This preserves the delicate flavors while ensuring a fresh taste when reheated.

Freezer: Unbaked stuffed squid can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until heated thoroughly. Reheating previously baked squid can be done in the oven for 15-20 minutes, adding extra sauce to keep them moist.

Note: When storing, remember to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain the quality of your delicious stuffed squid with rice and herbs.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Stuffed Squid with Rice and Herbs ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes on busy weeknights. You can clean and stuff the squid up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the rice mixture can be prepared up to 3 days prior—just keep it in a separate container and ensure it’s well-sealed to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to cook, simply layer the sauce in the baking dish, place the stuffed squid on top, pour the remaining sauce over them, and bake as directed. With this simple prep, you’ll enjoy the same delightful flavors while reducing your time in the kitchen!

Stuffed Squid with Rice and Herbs Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right squid for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing squid, look for ones that are firm and have a fresh ocean scent. Avoid any with dark spots or a slimy texture. Small squid are ideal for stuffing, but if you can only find larger ones, you can use 1-2 per person. Fresh is best, but frozen squid also works well—just remember to thaw them thoroughly.

What’s the best way to store leftover Stuffed Squid with Rice and Herbs?
Very! Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, they can be frozen unbaked for up to 3 months. Just ensure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.

Can I freeze Stuffed Squid once it’s baked?
Definitely! You can freeze already baked stuffed squid; just let them cool completely first. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they’ll last up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed throughout, adding a splash of sauce to keep them moist.

What should I do if my squid bursts during cooking?
Oh no! If this happens, don’t worry—simply transfer the filling to a plate and serve it alongside the squid! To prevent this in the future, ensure you leave enough space at the top of the squid when stuffing, about half an inch, to allow for expansion during cooking.

Is this dish safe for those with seafood allergies?
Absolutely! However, since squid is a type of shellfish, those with seafood allergies should avoid this recipe entirely. For a safe alternative, consider stuffing vegetables like peppers or zucchinis with a similar rice mixture for a delightful twist!

What if I can’t find fresh herbs?
Very! If fresh herbs like parsley and dill aren’t available, dried herbs can be a great substitute. Use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh ones to maintain flavor. So, for one tablespoon of fresh herbs, use about one teaspoon of dried.