As I sat down at my favorite local seafood restaurant, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, reminding me why I fell in love with Mediterranean cuisine in the first place. The artistry in each dish, particularly the delicate combination of king prawns and squid with a vibrant Ligurian sauce, transported me straight to the sun-soaked coasts of Italy. This dish is not just a delightful treat; it’s a culinary experience bursting with fresh flavors that dance on your palate.
After all, who doesn’t crave a meal that feels both special and effortlessly achievable? Picture this: tender prawns and succulent squid, enveloped in a rich herbaceous sauce that you can whip up in minutes! With a handful of simple ingredients — parsley, pine nuts, olives, and more — you can create a dish that dazzles at any dinner table. Perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing your guests, this recipe elevates your home cooking and breaks free from the mundane fast-food routine. Let’s dive into this easy yet sophisticated culinary adventure!
Why is king prawns and squid with Ligurian sauce unforgettable?
Freshness at Its Finest: The combination of fresh king prawns and tender squid brings a taste of the sea straight to your plate, offering an authentic Mediterranean experience.
Zesty Flavor Explosion: The Ligurian sauce, bursting with herbs and spiced with olives and capers, creates a lively flavor that elevates any meal.
Versatile Dish: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a weeknight treat, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that impresses without much fuss.
Quick Preparation: With just a few steps and minimal cook time, you can have this delightful meal ready in no time — perfect for busy evenings.
Satisfying Nourishment: Accompanied by nutritious sides like potatoes and green beans, this meal ensures you feel good while savoring each bite.
For an even wider range of those delectable seafood flavors, check out our recipes on seafood dishes for great ideas!
King Prawns and Squid Ingredients
• Get ready to explore the fresh flavors!
For the Seafood
- 12 king prawns – choose large, fresh prawns for the best texture and flavor.
- 1 1/3 lb of baby squid – smaller squid are tender and ideal for this dish.
For the Ligurian Sauce
- 1 3/4 oz of parsley leaves – fresh parsley adds vibrant color and freshness.
- 1 3/4 oz of pine nuts – these provide a rich, buttery taste; toasting enhances their flavor.
- 1 anchovy – adds depth and umami, blending perfectly into the sauce.
- 5 olives, pitted – opt for green or black based on your preference for a briny bite.
- 1/4 oz of capers, salted – these little bursts of flavor really amplify the sauce.
- 1/2 garlic clove – fresh garlic gives a subtle kick; adjust according to taste.
- 3/4 oz of breadcrumbs – use stale or homemade breadcrumbs for the best texture.
- 1 tbsp of red wine vinegar – this adds a nice tang, balancing the flavors beautifully.
For the Sides
- Extra virgin olive oil – use a high-quality olive oil for a rich taste.
- 10 2/3 oz of potatoes – any waxy potatoes work well, boiled until tender for a hearty side.
- 7 1/16 oz of green beans – steam or boil until crisp-tender for a pop of color and nutrition.
- Pine nuts, toasted – sprinkle these on top for a crunchy garnish!
How to Make King Prawns and Squid with Ligurian Sauce
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Blend the Sauce: Combine parsley leaves, pine nuts, anchovy, olives, capers, garlic, breadcrumbs, and red wine vinegar in a food processor. Blend until smooth, creating a vibrant Ligurian sauce.
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Cook the Seafood: In a pan, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the king prawns and baby squid, cooking until the prawns turn pink and the squid is just cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
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Prepare the Sides: Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, which should take around 15 minutes. Meanwhile, steam or boil the green beans until they are crisp-tender, about 4-5 minutes.
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Serve the Dish: Plate the prawns and squid, drizzled generously with the Ligurian sauce. Add the boiled potatoes and steamed green beans alongside, garnished with toasted pine nuts for extra crunch.
Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright finishing touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
King Prawns and Squid with Ligurian Sauce Variations
Get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Ligurian sauce for a warm, spicy edge that complements the seafood beautifully.
- Herb Infusion: Substitute basil or cilantro for half of the parsley to change up the flavor profile and add a fresh herbaceous note.
- Nut-Free: Omit the pine nuts entirely or replace them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version that still provides a delightful crunch.
- Vegan Option: Swap the king prawns and squid for grilled zucchini and eggplant, blending them with the Ligurian sauce for a hearty veggie delight.
- Pasta Addition: Serve the prawns and squid over al dente linguine or spaghetti, allowing the Ligurian sauce to coat the pasta for a complete meal.
- Citrusy Zing: Add the zest of a lemon or orange to the Ligurian sauce for a bright, citrusy flavor that cuts through the richness of the seafood.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate some smoked paprika into the sauce for an earthy depth that enhances the overall profile of this dish.
- Mixed Seafood: Replace half of the prawns with scallops or mussels for an even more decadent seafood experience, bringing a variety of textures to your plate.
Expert Tips for King Prawns and Squid
Choose Fresh Seafood: Use the freshest king prawns and squid available; their flavor and texture make all the difference in this delightful dish.
Don’t Overcook: Watch your cooking times carefully; overcooked squid can become rubbery while prawns should turn pink but not tough.
Toast the Pine Nuts: Toasting the pine nuts before adding them to the sauce enhances their flavor, giving your Ligurian sauce an extra depth.
Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic or capers in the Ligurian sauce to suit your taste; balance is key!
Prepare Sides in Advance: Boil potatoes and prepare green beans while the seafood cooks to save time and ensure everything is ready at once.
Make Ahead Options
These king prawns and squid with Ligurian sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the Ligurian sauce up to 24 hours in advance; just blend together the parsley leaves, pine nuts, anchovy, olives, capers, garlic, breadcrumbs, and red wine vinegar, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant flavor. The seafood can also be cooked a few hours ahead; simply refrigerate the prawns and squid and reheat them gently before serving to avoid overcooking. When you’re ready to enjoy this dish, simply boil the potatoes and steam the green beans, serving everything warm with the pre-prepared sauce. You’ll have a delightful meal ready with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze King Prawns and Squid with Ligurian Sauce
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish without the potatoes and green beans in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Reheating: When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat until the prawns and squid are heated through to avoid overcooking.
Freezer Tips: If freezing the Ligurian sauce separately, blend and store in ice cube trays for easy portioning and use in future meals.
What to Serve with King Prawns and Squid with Ligurian Sauce?
When it comes to crafting a memorable meal, sides can elevate your dish with textures and flavors that enhance the entire dining experience.
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Creamy Risotto: A luscious, creamy risotto adds a touch of decadence, balancing the seafood’s freshness with its rich, velvety texture.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that delightful Ligurian sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s hard to resist.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, perhaps dressed in lemon vinaigrette, offers a refreshing bite that complements the savory seafood.
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Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa with fresh herbs provides a nutritious option that absorbs flavors beautifully, pairing well with the dish’s bold sauce.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio enhances the meal’s Mediterranean flair, making each sip a delightful complement.
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Lemon Tart: For dessert, a refreshing lemon tart adds a zesty finish to your meal, brightening up your palate after the savory seafood.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender, roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil brings a beautifully charred flavor to the table, complementing the freshness of the prawns and squid.
Each of these pairings not only boosts the meal’s overall appeal but also captures the spirit of a delightful Mediterranean feast!
King Prawns and Squid with Ligurian Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best king prawns and squid?
Absolutely! For king prawns, look for those that are large, firm, and have a mild, fresh scent. Their shells should be glossy and moist. When it comes to baby squid, pick ones that are small and plump, free from any dark spots, and with a clean aroma of the sea. These qualities ensure your dish shines with the freshest flavors!
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to keep the flavors intact. If you’re not planning to eat the leftovers quickly, consider freezing them for longer preservation. Just remember that the potatoes and beans are best enjoyed fresh!
Can I freeze king prawns and squid with Ligurian sauce?
Very! To freeze, it’s best to separate the Ligurian sauce from the seafood and sides if you’ve got leftovers. Place the prawns and squid in an airtight container, avoiding overlapping, to prevent freezer burn. Store the Ligurian sauce in ice cube trays, allowing you to thaw just the right amount for future meals. The seafood can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What should I do if my seafood is overcooked?
Don’t worry if you overcook the seafood a bit; we all learn along the way! To revive the texture, you can do a quick sauté with some extra virgin olive oil, while adding a splash of lemon juice to help brighten the flavors. Keep the heat low to avoid further cooking; it’s all about balance!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with seafood allergies, substitute the prawns and squid with grilled chicken or mushrooms for a delightful twist! Also, for those who are sensitive to gluten, make sure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the Ligurian sauce. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish!
Can I prepare the Ligurian sauce in advance?
Absolutely, yes! You can make the Ligurian sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This not only saves you time on busy cooking nights but allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it a quick stir before serving!
Savor King Prawns and Squid with Zesty Ligurian Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend the sauce: Combine parsley leaves, pine nuts, anchovy, olives, capers, garlic, breadcrumbs, and red wine vinegar in a food processor. Blend until smooth.
- Cook the seafood: In a pan, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the king prawns and baby squid, cooking until the prawns turn pink and the squid is just cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Prepare the sides: Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, approximately 15 minutes. Meanwhile, steam or boil the green beans until crisp-tender, about 4-5 minutes.
- Serve the dish: Plate the prawns and squid, drizzled generously with the Ligurian sauce. Add boiled potatoes and steamed green beans, garnished with toasted pine nuts.