Nigella Italian Starters
Dive into the world of Italian starters with Nigella Lawson's delightful recipes, each offering a taste of Italy's rich culinary tradition right in your kitchen. Nigella, known for her approachable and comforting cooking style, presents a variety of Italian-inspired dishes that are perfect for kickstarting a sumptuous meal.
Quick Calamari with Garlic Mayonnaise
A standout among Nigella's Italian starters is the Quick Calamari with Garlic Mayonnaise. This dish is a testament to Nigella's philosophy of stress-free cooking, utilizing accessible ingredients to create a dish that's both simple and sophisticated. The calamari is coated in a light batter and fried until crispy, served alongside a creamy garlic mayonnaise that complements the seafood perfectly. The combination of textures and flavors makes this dish a crowd-pleaser, suitable for both a casual family dinner and a more formal gathering.
Ingredients List
- Squid (tubes and tentacles): 500g, frozen
- Groundnut oil: 250ml (for frying)
- Cornflour: 2 tablespoons
- Semolina: 4 tablespoons
- Old Bay seasoning: 2 teaspoons (or a mix of 1 teaspoon each of salt and paprika)
- Garlic (for mayonnaise): ½ clove
- Best-quality mayonnaise: 100g
Preparation Instructions
- Begin by heating the oil in a saucepan, while thawing and slicing the squid into rings.
- Mix the cornflour, semolina, and seasoning in a bag, then add the squid to coat evenly.
- Fry the coated squid in batches until golden and crispy.
- For the garlic mayonnaise, simply mix crushed garlic into the mayonnaise for a quick and flavorful dip.
Storage and Reheating
Fried calamari is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Nutritional Information
This dish offers a good balance of protein from the squid, with the mayonnaise adding a creamy texture and richness. Be mindful of the oil used for frying, as it can increase the calorie count.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh squid instead of frozen? Yes, fresh squid can be used but ensure it's cleaned and prepared properly before cooking.
- What alternatives can I use for groundnut oil? Vegetable or canola oil can be good substitutes, as long as they have a high smoke point suitable for frying.
- How do I prevent the calamari from becoming rubbery? The key is not to overcook the calamari. A quick fry over high heat ensures they remain tender.
For more details on Nigella's Italian starters, including a range of other delectable recipes like Mozzarella in Carrozza and Sicilian Pasta with Tomatoes, Garlic & Almonds, visit Nigella's official website.
Original recipes by Nigella Lawson.