4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft. Stir in the canned tomatoes (crushing them with a spoon) or tomato sauce. Add salt, pepper, and sugar if needed. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to thicken slightly and develop flavor.
5. Cook the Stuffed Squid
Place the stuffed squid gently into the simmering tomato sauce. Cover and cook over low heat for about 25–30 minutes, turning them occasionally so they cook evenly. The squid should become tender while absorbing the flavors of the sauce.
6. Serve
Remove the toothpicks and arrange the stuffed squid on a serving platter. Spoon the tomato sauce generously over the top and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or a light salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Tips
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the tomato sauce before simmering.
- Substitute minced beef or lamb with a mix of chopped squid tentacles and shrimp for a seafood variation.
- Make ahead: The dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Tender, savory, and beautifully aromatic, this Mediterranean Stuffed Squid in Tomato Sauce captures the essence of traditional coastal cuisine — simple ingredients transformed into an elegant, satisfying dish.
