Calamari in zimino – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Italy Region / Locale: Tuscany Servings: Serves 4
Italy Region / Locale: Tuscany Servings: Serves 4Calamari in Zimino is an exquisite Italian seafood dish rooted in the culinary traditions of Tuscany and Liguria. In the Italian dialect, ‘zimino’ refers to a stew where seafood, most commonly squid or cuttlefish, is cooked with leafy greens, usually spinach or Swiss chard. This dish beautifully melds the brininess of the sea with earthy, vegetal notes, creating a harmonious balance that reflects the rustic yet refined essence of Italian coastal cuisine.
Ingredients
- olive oil – 3 tbsp / 45 ml
- garlic, minced – 3 cloves
- calamari, cleaned and sliced into rings – 1 lb / 450 g
- spinach, roughly chopped – 8 oz / 225 g
- tomato paste – 2 tbsp / 30 g
- dry white wine – 1/2 cup / 120 ml
- vegetable broth – 1 cup / 240 ml
- red pepper flakes – 1/2 tsp / 1 g
- salt – to taste
- black pepper – to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add calamari rings to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to firm up.
- Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
- Add tomato paste, white wine, vegetable broth, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until calamari is tender.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste before serving.
Substitutions
- calamari -> cuttlefish or squid
- spinach -> Swiss chard
- dry white wine -> chicken broth or apple juice
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness.
- Include chopped onions for additional flavor depth.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a fresh note.
- Use seafood stock instead of vegetable broth for richer flavor.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
