(Crispy Baked Calamari with Cherry Tomatoes, Olives & Lemon)

Looking for a simple Mediterranean seafood dish packed with flavor? This baked calamari recipe combines tender squid, sweet cherry tomatoes, briny olives, fresh basil, and a hint of lemon for a delicious meal that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 2 good sized squid (calamari), cleaned
• 15 cherry tomatoes
• 50 g green olives, halved
• 30 g Taggiasca olives
• 30 g grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 generous tablespoons breadcrumbs or panko
• Oregano, to taste
• Juice of ½ lemon and zest of the entire lemon
• 5 basil leaves, finely chopped
• 5 whole basil leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil, as desired

Instructions

1. Prepare the Calamari

Clean the squid thoroughly and cut it into rings or slices.

2. Prepare the Tomatoes

Score the cherry tomatoes with a small cross on the skin. Blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer them to cold water. Peel and halve them.

3. Make the Mediterranean Topping

In a large bowl, combine:

• Cherry tomatoes
• Green olives
• Taggiasca olives
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Breadcrumbs or panko
• Oregano
• Lemon juice and zest
• Chopped basil
• Whole basil leaves

Season generously with salt and pepper, then mix well.

4. Assemble the Dish

Arrange the calamari in a baking dish or on a baking tray.

Cover evenly with the tomato and olive mixture. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a little extra panko or breadcrumbs for added crunch.

5. Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C for approximately 25 minutes, or until the calamari are golden and lightly crispy on top.

Serving Suggestion

Serve immediately with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables. A squeeze of fresh lemon (or lime) just before serving adds a final burst of Mediterranean flavor.

*Buon Appetito!