Calamares encebollados with a Twist

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) squid, cleaned and sliced into rings 500g (1.1 lb) squid, cleaned and sliced into rings
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. Add the squid rings and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onions and cook until they are caramelized and golden brown, stirring occasionally. This will take about 20-25 minutes.
3. 3.
   Push the onions to one side of the skillet and add the marinated squid. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the squid is opaque and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. 4.
   Serve the calamares encebollados hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy with crusty bread or rice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Squid — Make sure to clean the squid thoroughly, removing the innards and the transparent cartilage. To achieve tender squid, cook it quickly over high heat or slowly simmer it over low heat. Overcooking can result in rubbery texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade.
• Serve the calamares encebollados with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour to the caramelized onions before adding the squid.

Serving advice

Serve the calamares encebollados hot, accompanied by crusty bread or steamed rice. The bread or rice can be used to soak up the delicious onion sauce.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden brown squid rings on a plate and spoon the caramelized onion sauce over them. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.