Calamari is among one of the most popular appetizers for seafood restaurants as it’s slightly sweet and offers a wonderful crunch. While calamari does look similar to an onion ring, it is extremely different; calamari is squid and the meat is both firm and white. Typically, the squid is battered and deep-friend but it can also be found raw in sushi.
A Little Info About European Squid
Originating from the Italian term, “calamaro,” calamari is often found in Mediterranean cuisine. Calamari is typically European squid which is abundant in the Mediterranean, Adriatic Sea, North Sea and the Irish Sea. You’ll also find this particular type of squid along the eastern parts of the Atlantic Ocean.
How Calamari is Cooked & Served
Calamari is typically served as a smaller plate prior to the main course. You can expect to taste lemon garnish and parsley, and you’ll find a side of dipping sauce. Although calamaris is typically fried, it is often sauteed, grilled, boiled and braised. When cooking calamari, it must be properly timed out or it will come out rubbery.
There are truly endless ways to serve calamari from frying and serving on a small dish with a side of dipping sauce to simmering it in a tomato sauce until tender and serving over pasta.
Calamari Nutritional Facts
Similar to all types of seafood, calamari is rich in B-vitamins. A 3 ounce serving contains riboflavin which helps with the following:
- Healthy appetite
- Digestion
- Energy production
- Vision
- Skin maintenance
- Neurological function
Why You Should Come to Quattro for Boston’s Best Calamari
At Quattro, we understand that New Englanders adore seafood and in Boston, we can easily tell fresh from frozen. We use the freshest ingredients and the best quality seafood in Boston’s historic North End. We offer fried calamari and fritto misto which translates to “mixed fry.” Book a table today or come by to our location at 264 Hanover Street.