Calamari, also known as squid, is a popular seafood that is delicately flavored and easy to cook. Whether it’s grilled, fried, or even baked, calamari is a versatile ingredient that can be paired with various sides and sauces. However, choosing the perfect accompaniment can be daunting.
In this article, we will be exploring various side dishes and sauces that can be served with calamari to elevate its taste. We will also discuss the best cooking methods for calamari and how to choose the perfect wine to complement the dish. So, let’s dive into the world of calamari and discover the best ways to serve it.
Best Vegetable Sides for Calamari
Calamari is a seafood delicacy that is loved by many across the world. It is often served as an appetizer but can also be enjoyed as a main dish with the right sides. When it comes to serving calamari, vegetable sides are an excellent choice as they complement the dish’s texture and flavor.
Some of the best vegetable sides that go well with calamari include roasted or grilled vegetables. Broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus are some versatile options that can be seasoned and cooked to perfection. You can also opt for sautéed greens like spinach, kale, or Swiss chard to add some color and variety to your plate.
Another great option is to serve calamari with a fresh salad. A colorful salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and mixed greens can add crunch and a burst of flavor to the dish. You can also try a simple side of sliced avocado or a flavorful dip like tzatziki sauce or hummus, which can go well with both the calamari and the vegetables. Overall, serving your calamari with some tasty vegetable sides will enhance the dining experience and make for a well-rounded meal.
8 Wine Pairings to Complement Calamari
When it comes to enjoying calamari, the right wine pairing can take your dining experience to the next level. Whether you prefer a crisp white or a full-bodied red, there are plenty of wines that can expertly complement the flavors of this delicious seafood dish.
For a classic pairing, try serving calamari with a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. These light-bodied whites provide the perfect balance to the rich, fried flavors of the dish. If you prefer a red wine, opt for a light-bodied Pinot Noir or a medium-bodied Sangiovese. These wines bring out the savory notes of the calamari without overpowering it. Other great wine options include sparkling wines like Champagne or Prosecco, or even a chilled glass of rosé. No matter your preferences, there is a perfect wine pairing out there to complement your next plate of calamari.
Fries vs. Salad: Which Side Goes Best with Calamari?
Calamari is a popular seafood dish, often served as an appetizer or light entrée. When it comes to choosing a side dish to complement the flavors and textures of calamari, two classic options come to mind: fries and salad. While both sides can be delicious, choosing the right one depends on personal taste preferences and the overall meal.
Fries are a classic accompaniment to calamari and provide a satisfying crunch to counterbalance the seafood’s soft texture. They can be seasoned with garlic, herbs, or parmesan cheese to add extra flavor, and dipping sauces like aioli and marinara are excellent for adding a kick of flavor. However, fries are also often high in calories and can leave you feeling heavy after a meal. On the other hand, a fresh salad can balance out the heavy texture of calamari, provide a refreshing palate cleanser, and add extra vitamins and nutrients to your meal. Consider options like arugula, spinach, or mixed greens with a simple vinaigrette dressing. Ultimately, the decision of fries versus salad comes down to personal preference and the overall balance of your meal.
Spanish-Inspired Sides That Go Perfectly with Calamari
Spanish cuisine has an intense and vibrant flavor profile, and that’s why Spanish-inspired sides pair perfectly with calamari. One such side is patatas bravas, a classic dish that is often found in Spanish tapas bars. This dish consists of fried potatoes that are crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside, served with a spicy tomato sauce. The crispy texture of the potatoes and the bold flavor of the sauce make a great complement to the tender and mild taste of calamari.
Another Spanish-inspired side that goes well with calamari is gazpacho. This refreshing cold soup is an excellent way to balance the richness of calamari. Gazpacho is made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onion, garlic, and olive oil. It’s best served chilled and can be made in advance, which makes it perfect for summer gatherings. The cold soup’s acidity and tanginess cut through the fried calamari’s richness, making it a perfect pairing.
Healthier Alternatives to Classic Calamari Dips
When it comes to classic calamari dips like marinara and aioli, they can be loaded with calories and unhealthy ingredients. So, if you’re looking for a healthier option, you can try substituting them with some delicious alternatives.
One option is tzatziki dip. Made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill, it’s rich, creamy, and packed with protein. Another option is a salsa dip that’s low in calories and high in vitamins. You can whip up a quick salsa by mixing diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, cilantro, and lime juice. Lastly, if you’re looking for a unique twist, give chimichurri sauce a shot. This Argentinean condiment made with parsley, garlic, red pepper flakes, and olive oil, is a great way to add a burst of flavor without adding extra calories. These dips are easy to make and pair well with fried calamari.
5 creative Calamari Appetizer Ideas to Impress Your Guests
If you want to impress your guests with your culinary skills, serve these five creative calamari appetizers. Firstly, you can make grilled calamari skewers by marinating the calamari in a mix of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Then, thread the calamari onto skewers and grill them on high heat. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce.
Secondly, you can whip up some crispy calamari rings by dredging the calamari in seasoned flour and deep-frying them until golden brown. Serve them with a side of spicy chipotle mayo for dipping. Thirdly, you can make a refreshing calamari ceviche by marinating raw calamari in lime juice, orange juice, and cilantro. Serve it with tortilla chips for a crunchy texture.
Fourthly, you can make a creamy calamari dip by blending cooked calamari with cream cheese, sour cream, garlic, and herbs. Serve with crostini or crackers. Lastly, you can make a sweet and sour calamari salad by mixing cooked calamari with cucumber, radish, mint, and a dressing made of vinegar, honey, and ginger. These creative calamari appetizers are sure to impress your guests.
Rethinking Sides: Unconventional Pairings for Calamari
When it comes to serving calamari, most of us opt for tried-and-true sides like fries or a simple salad. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of unconventional pairings that can take your calamari game to the next level.
One such pairing is a spicy aioli or sauce made with sriracha, honey, and lime. This combination adds a tangy kick to the mild flavor of calamari and elevates the dish to new heights. Another excellent option is a side of grilled vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers. The charred flavor of the vegetables compliments the crispy texture of the calamari, making for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Ultimately, there are no rules when it comes to pairing calamari, so get creative and experiment to find your perfect pairing.
Wrapping Up
Calamari is a tasty seafood dish that is enjoyed by many. It can be served as an appetizer or the main course, depending on the occasion. When it comes to serving calamari, there are several delicious options that can elevate the dish and make it even more enjoyable.
One way to serve calamari is with a salad or coleslaw. This adds a refreshing element to the dish and balances out the richness of the calamari. Alternatively, serving it with a garlic or lemon sauce can add a zesty kick that enhances the flavor of the calamari. No matter how you choose to serve your calamari, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
In conclusion, serving calamari is all about finding the right balance of flavors. Whether you opt for a side of salad, coleslaw, or a sauce, make sure it complements the dish and enhances its natural taste. With these ideas in mind, you can impress your guests with a delicious and satisfying calamari dish that they’ll be sure to enjoy!