A warm and comforting Italian-style seafood stew where tender calamari gently simmer in a rich tomato sauce with sweet peas. This dish is simple, rustic, and perfect for a cozy family meal, bringing classic Mediterranean flavors to the table with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find
The calamari turn tender and flavorful when slowly simmered
It feels special enough for guests yet easy enough for weeknights
Naturally light, satisfying, and well-balanced
Pairs beautifully with bread, rice, or pasta
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
600 g cleaned calamari, sliced into rings with tentacles kept whole
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
400 g tomato sauce
120 ml seafood stock or water
150 g peas, fresh or frozen
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Directions
Heat the olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook for 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent.
Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the calamari to the pan and stir well, cooking for 2–3 minutes.
Pour in the seafood stock and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Stir in the tomato sauce, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to low.
Cover and simmer gently for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the peas and continue cooking for another 10 minutes until tender.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Variations
Add a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat
Include sliced bell peppers for extra sweetness
Use chopped fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce for a lighter texture
Serve over pasta or alongside crusty bread
Add a splash of lemon juice at the end for brightness
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a small splash of water if the sauce has thickened. Avoid overheating to keep the calamari tender.
FAQs
Can I use frozen calamari?
Yes, just make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
How do I keep calamari tender?
Cook it either very quickly or allow it to simmer gently for a longer time, as in this recipe.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
Are fresh peas better than frozen?
Both work well. Frozen peas are convenient and still provide great flavor.
What can I serve with this dish?
Bread, rice, couscous, or plain pasta are all excellent options.
Can I use calamari tubes only?
Yes, tubes alone work perfectly if tentacles are unavailable.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it is mild, but you can add heat if you prefer.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply use a larger pan and keep cooking times similar.
What type of pan works best?
A wide, heavy-bottomed pan or shallow pot is ideal.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended, as the calamari texture may change.
Conclusion
Calamari in tomato sauce with peas is a timeless Italian-inspired dish that proves simple ingredients can create deep, comforting flavors. Whether served for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe delivers warmth, tradition, and satisfying taste in every bite.
A comforting Italian seafood dish where tender calamari simmer slowly in a rich tomato sauce with peas. Rustic, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal.
Ingredients
600 g cleaned calamari, sliced into rings (tentacles kept whole)
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
400 g tomato sauce
120 ml seafood stock or water
150 g peas (fresh or frozen)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook for 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add calamari and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pour in seafood stock and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Stir in tomato sauce, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to low.
Cover and simmer gently for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add peas and continue cooking for another 10 minutes until peas are tender.
Adjust seasoning to taste.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Do not overcook calamari quickly — either cook briefly or let it simmer gently to keep it tender.
Frozen peas can be added directly without thawing.
A splash of lemon juice at the end can enhance freshness.
Serve with bread, pasta, rice, or couscous for a complete meal.
