Spaghetti with squid and courgettes
If you love fish, a meal that tastes of the sea is an undeniable joy. In this recipe we are going to make squid, fresh tomatoes and courgettes. A wonderfully light combination which feels quite summery. This sauce is suitable for other pasta shapes, and is a complete meal in itself: pasta, vegetables and fish.
Ingredients
* approximate values per serving
Preparation
Clean and wash the squid thoroughly, removing its entrails and any residues of sand. Cut them into pieces. Blanch the tomatoes, peel, remove seeds and cut into strips. Wash and slice the courgettes. Take a frying pan and gently brown a clove of garlic in a little olive oil. Add the squid, sauté briefly, then pour in the brandy and simmer to reduce the alcohol. Add the tomatoes, simmer for a few minutes, then the courgettes. Turn the heat to high and cook the courgettes but keeping them crunchy. Add salt if necessary. Cook the spaghetti and toss with the sauce, adding a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkling of pepper.
Step by step
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Gently brown a clove of garlic in a frying pan
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Add the well-cleaned squid, cut into pieces
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Add brandy and then reduce, then add the peeled and chopped tomatoes
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Add the sliced courgettes and cook
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Dress the spaghetti with the prepared sauce, a drizzle of olive oil and a grinding of pepper
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Additional information
Spaghetti with Squid and Zucchini with Fresh Cherry Tomatoes
One of the tastiest variations of spaghetti with squid and zucchini is the addition of fresh cherry tomatoes. This preparation enriches the dish with a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, perfect for enhancing the squid and zucchini. To make this version, simply sauté the cherry tomatoes in a pan with the other ingredients, allowing them to release their juice and blend well with the rest of the sauce. The result will be a more colorful and fragrant spaghetti dish that brings a touch of freshness to the table, ideal for warm summer days. Don't forget to garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a final touch of aroma and color.
Sicilian Style Spaghetti with Squid and Zucchini
For those who wish to savor a preparation typical of Sicilian tradition, Sicilian style spaghetti with squid and zucchini is an excellent choice. In this variation, local ingredients such as cherry tomatoes and oregano are used, giving the dish an authentic and rich flavor. The cooking technique remains similar, but you can add a touch of chili pepper for a hint of spiciness. This dish perfectly represents Sicilian cuisine, which combines fresh and genuine ingredients. Serving the spaghetti with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs can make the dish even more interesting, adding a crunchy note to the soft sauce.
Light Spaghetti with Squid and Zucchini without Oil
For a lighter version of spaghetti with squid and zucchini, you can prepare a light dish without oil. In this preparation, the squid and zucchini are cooked in a pan with a bit of water and herbs, avoiding the use of oil. By using fresh tomatoes or tomato puree, you can achieve a tasty and light sauce. This variant is perfect for those on a low-calorie diet but who do not want to give up flavor. Additionally, the absence of oil makes the dish more digestible and suitable for those with cholesterol issues. Complete with fresh parsley and black pepper for an extra touch of flavor.
Nutritional Benefits of Spaghetti with Squid and Zucchini
Spaghetti with squid and zucchini is not only a delicious dish but also offers numerous health benefits. Squid is rich in protein and low in fat, making it an excellent source of essential nutrients. Zucchini, on the other hand, is low in calories and high in fiber, contributing to digestive health. Furthermore, they contain vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C and potassium. A serving of spaghetti with squid and zucchini provides about 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil and other ingredients used. This dish is therefore perfect for a balanced meal that satisfies the palate and nourishes the body.
Can Spaghetti with Squid and Zucchini be Frozen?
Freezing spaghetti with squid and zucchini is possible, but there are some considerations to keep in mind. It is advisable to freeze the dish only if it has been prepared without fresh ingredients like zucchini, which tend to lose texture and flavor once thawed. The recommendation is to freeze the squid and tomato-based sauce separately from the pasta. This way, once thawed, you can cook fresh pasta and add the sauce, thus preserving the quality of the dish. Make sure to store everything in airtight containers to avoid freezer burn and to keep the flavors intact. When you decide to consume it, simply reheat it in a pan over low heat, and your dish will be ready to enjoy.