What To Know
- Marinara sauce is a timeless companion for calamari, offering a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy base that complements the squid’s delicate flavor.
- Garlic aioli, a blend of mayonnaise, garlic, and lemon juice, offers a creamy, garlicky punch that perfectly balances the crispy texture of the calamari.
- Romesco sauce, a Spanish sauce made with roasted red peppers, almonds, and tomatoes, adds a smoky, nutty, and slightly sweet element that elevates the dish to new heights.
Calamari, those tender rings of fried squid, are a beloved appetizer for their crispy exterior and chewy interior. But what truly elevates this classic dish is the sauce. The right sauce can transform calamari from simple snack to a symphony of flavors. So, if you’re asking yourself “what to eat calamari with sauce,” you’ve come to the right place. This guide will explore the best sauces for calamari, from classic marinara to adventurous Asian-inspired flavors.
The Classic: Marinara Sauce
Let’s start with the obvious. Marinara sauce is a timeless companion for calamari, offering a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy base that complements the squid’s delicate flavor. The acidity of the tomatoes cuts through the richness of the fried calamari, while the garlic and herbs add depth and complexity.
Pro Tip: For an extra kick, try a marinara sauce with a touch of red pepper flakes.
Creamy Delights: Garlic Aioli and Lemon-Butter Sauce
For a richer, more indulgent experience, consider creamy sauces like garlic aioli or lemon-butter. Garlic aioli, a blend of mayonnaise, garlic, and lemon juice, offers a creamy, garlicky punch that perfectly balances the crispy texture of the calamari.
Lemon-butter sauce, on the other hand, brings a vibrant citrusy flavor that brightens up the dish. The melted butter adds richness, while the lemon juice provides a refreshing counterpoint.
Spicy and Tangy: Sriracha Mayo and Chipotle Aioli
If you crave a bit of heat, spicy sauces like sriracha mayo or chipotle aioli are excellent choices. Sriracha mayo combines the fiery kick of sriracha with the creamy base of mayonnaise, creating a sauce that’s both spicy and flavorful.
Chipotle aioli, made with smoked chipotle peppers, offers a smokier, more complex heat that pairs wonderfully with the crispy calamari.
A Touch of Asia: Sweet Chili Sauce and Teriyaki Sauce
For an adventurous twist, explore Asian-inspired sauces like sweet chili sauce or teriyaki sauce. Sweet chili sauce, with its balance of sweetness, spice, and tang, adds a delightful complexity to the calamari.
Teriyaki sauce, a blend of soy sauce, sugar, and mirin, provides a savory and slightly sweet glaze that complements the squid’s texture.
Beyond the Usual: Pesto Sauce and Romesco Sauce
Don’t be afraid to experiment with less traditional sauces. Pesto sauce, a blend of basil, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil, offers a fragrant and herbaceous flavor that pairs surprisingly well with calamari.
Romesco sauce, a Spanish sauce made with roasted red peppers, almonds, and tomatoes, adds a smoky, nutty, and slightly sweet element that elevates the dish to new heights.
The Final Touch: A Sprinkle of Parmesan Cheese
To finish your calamari dish, consider a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. The salty, nutty flavor of the cheese adds a final touch of richness and complexity, elevating the overall taste experience.
A Final Thought: The Art of Balance
Choosing the right sauce for calamari is an art of balance. Consider the flavors of the calamari itself, the texture of the dish, and your personal preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover new combinations that tantalize your taste buds.
What You Need to Learn
Q: What is the best sauce for calamari?
A: The best sauce for calamari depends on your personal preference. Some popular choices include marinara, garlic aioli, sriracha mayo, and sweet chili sauce.
Q: How can I make calamari sauce at home?
A: Many calamari sauces are easy to make at home. You can find recipes online for marinara, garlic aioli, sriracha mayo, and other sauces.
Q: What other foods can I serve with calamari?
A: Calamari is often served as an appetizer, but it can also be enjoyed as part of a larger meal. You can serve it with a side of pasta, rice, or salad.
Q: Can I use different types of squid for calamari?
A: While calamari is typically made with squid rings, you can also use other types of squid, such as squid tentacles.
Q: What is the best way to cook calamari?
A: The most common way to cook calamari is to fry it, but you can also grill, bake, or sauté it.
