If you're searching for a dish that combines the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with a quick and easy preparation, look no further! Our Lemon Caper Calamari Steaks with Broccolini is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that transports your taste buds to sun-soaked shores. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this stunning plate that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering. With tender calamari steaks marinated in zesty lemon and briny capers, paired with crisp, sautéed broccolini, this recipe promises to be a showstopper. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 calamari steaks
- 1 cup broccolini
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons capers
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 calamari steaks, 1 cup of broccolini, 1 lemon (juiced), 2 tablespoons of capers, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Rinse the broccolini under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Trim the ends of the broccolini if necessary. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, capers, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir well to create a marinade for the calamari. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the calamari steaks in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the broccolini.
- In a medium pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt, then add the broccolini. Blanch the broccolini for about 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain again and set aside.
- Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated calamari steaks to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the calamari is opaque and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make the calamari tough.
- While the calamari is cooking, you can sauté the blanched broccolini in the same skillet for about 2 minutes, allowing it to absorb any remaining flavors from the pan.
- Once the calamari is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a minute. Serve the calamari steaks alongside the sautéed broccolini.
- Drizzle any remaining lemon-caper marinade over the calamari and broccolini for added flavor. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Enjoy your Lemon Caper Calamari Steaks with Broccolini, a delightful Mediterranean dish that is both fresh and flavorful!
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the calamari to marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the lemon and caper flavors. If you have more time, marinating for up to 30 minutes can enhance the taste even further.
- Don’t Overcook the Calamari: Calamari cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it! Aim for 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s opaque. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
- Blanching Broccolini: Blanching the broccolini not only brightens its color but also helps retain its nutrients. The ice water bath is crucial for stopping the cooking process, ensuring it stays crisp.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh calamari and seasonal broccolini. Fresh ingredients will elevate the dish and enhance its Mediterranean flair.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: The balance of flavors is key. Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and even the amount of lemon juice in the marinade to suit your palate.
- Pair with a Side: Consider serving this dish with a side of crusty bread or a light salad to round out the meal and soak up the delicious lemon-caper sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 250mg
