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Smoked Calamari
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Smoked Calamari

Loligo spp.

Clinical Encyclopedia

Smoked calamari is a delicacy made from squid that has been cured and smoked, offering a unique flavor profile and chewy texture. It is rich in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it a popular choice for seafood lovers.

Also known as:
Calamari affumicati (Italy)Calamares ahumados (Spain)
Scientific NameLoligo spp.
Region of OriginMediterranean region

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories150 kcal
Water
75%
Fiber0g
Total32.5g
Protein
30g(92%)
Fats
2g(6%)
Carbohydrates
0.5g(2%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin B1210 µg (417%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (6%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)2 mg (13%)
Choline65 mg (12%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin C: 0 mgVitamin E: 0.2 mgVitamin A: 0 µgVitamin D: 0 µgFolate: 0 µg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Selenium40 µg (73%)
Zinc1 mg (9%)
Iron1 mg (6%)
Copper0.2 mg (22%)
Magnesium30 mg (8%)
Phosphorus200 mg (29%)
Potassium400 mg (11%)
Calcium20 mg (2%)
Manganese0.1 mg (5%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in protein, smoked calamari supports muscle growth and repair, making it an excellent choice for athletes and active individuals.
Rich in essential nutrients like Vitamin B12 and selenium, it contributes to overall health, including improved energy levels and immune function.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Smoked calamari can be enjoyed straight from the package, added to salads, or used as a topping for pizzas and pastas.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose smoked calamari that is firm to the touch and has a fresh, smoky aroma. Avoid any that appear slimy or have an off smell.

How to Store

Keep smoked calamari refrigerated and consume within a week. If freezing, wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
AntioxidantAnti-inflammatory
Main Applications
Culinary use in seafood dishes
Nutritional supplement for protein intake
Bioactive Compounds
Omega-3 fatty acids

Promote heart health and reduce inflammation.

How to Consume
Fresh, Smoked, Grilled, Fried
Did you know?

"Calamari is derived from the Italian word for squid, and it has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries."

Myths vs Realities

MythSmoked calamari is unhealthy due to high sodium content.
RealityWhile it can be high in sodium, moderation is key, and it offers many health benefits.
MythAll calamari is the same.
RealityDifferent preparations and cooking methods can significantly affect the flavor and texture of calamari.
MythSmoked calamari is not suitable for a low-carb diet.
RealitySmoked calamari is low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets.

Healthy Recipes

Smoked Calamari Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

A refreshing salad featuring smoked calamari, mixed greens, and a zesty citrus vinaigrette that brings out the flavors of the sea.

Ingredients
  • 200g smoked calamari, sliced
  • 100g mixed greens
  • 1 orange, segmented
  • 1 grapefruit, segmented
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, orange, and grapefruit segments.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Toss the salad with the dressing and top with sliced smoked calamari before serving.

Smoked Calamari Quinoa Bowl

A nutritious quinoa bowl topped with smoked calamari, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of tahini dressing for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 150g smoked calamari
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 carrot, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and roast zucchini, bell pepper, and carrot for 20 minutes.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa and roasted vegetables.
  3. 3. Top with smoked calamari and drizzle with tahini dressing made from tahini, lemon juice, and salt.

Smoked Calamari Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Delicious tacos filled with smoked calamari and topped with a fresh avocado salsa for a healthy twist on a classic dish.

Ingredients
  • 200g smoked calamari
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix avocado, tomato, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro to make the salsa.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet until soft.
  3. 3. Fill each tortilla with smoked calamari and top with avocado salsa before serving.

Smoked Calamari and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

Bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of smoked calamari, spinach, and quinoa, baked to perfection for a healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 bell peppers, halved
  • 150g smoked calamari, chopped
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 100g fresh spinach
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. 2. Sauté spinach in olive oil until wilted, then mix with smoked calamari and quinoa.
  3. 3. Stuff the mixture into halved bell peppers and bake for 25 minutes.

Smoked Calamari Pasta with Garlic and Spinach

A light pasta dish featuring whole grain spaghetti tossed with smoked calamari, garlic, and fresh spinach for a quick and healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 200g whole grain spaghetti
  • 150g smoked calamari
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 100g fresh spinach
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
  2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant, then add smoked calamari and spinach.
  3. 3. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the calamari mixture, season with salt and pepper, and serve.

Smoked Calamari and Chickpea Salad

A protein-packed salad combining smoked calamari and chickpeas with fresh vegetables and a lemon dressing for a filling meal.

Ingredients
  • 150g smoked calamari
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, and smoked calamari.
  2. 2. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

Smoked Calamari and Avocado Toast

A trendy and healthy take on avocado toast topped with smoked calamari for a unique flavor combination.

Ingredients
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • 1 avocado, mashed
  • 100g smoked calamari
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the whole grain bread until golden brown.
  2. 2. Spread mashed avocado on each slice and drizzle with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Top with smoked calamari and sprinkle with red pepper flakes before serving.

Smoked Calamari and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A quick stir-fry featuring smoked calamari and a colorful array of vegetables, served over brown rice for a nutritious dinner.

Ingredients
  • 200g smoked calamari
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil and stir-fry mixed vegetables until tender.
  2. 2. Add smoked calamari and soy sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve the stir-fry over cooked brown rice.

Smoked Calamari and Cucumber Roll-Ups

Light and refreshing cucumber roll-ups filled with smoked calamari and cream cheese, perfect for a healthy appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 150g smoked calamari, chopped
  • 100g cream cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix cream cheese with chopped smoked calamari, dill, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Spread the mixture onto cucumber slices and roll them up.
  3. 3. Secure with a toothpick and serve as an appetizer.

Smoked Calamari and Sweet Potato Hash

A hearty breakfast hash made with diced sweet potatoes, smoked calamari, and topped with a poached egg for a nutritious start to the day.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
  • 150g smoked calamari
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté diced sweet potatoes until tender.
  2. 2. Add smoked calamari and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  3. 3. Poach the eggs separately and serve on top of the sweet potato hash, garnished with parsley.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is smoked calamari healthy?

Yes, smoked calamari is high in protein and low in fat, making it a healthy seafood option.

How should I store smoked calamari?

Store smoked calamari in the refrigerator and consume it within a week for the best flavor.

Can I eat smoked calamari if I have a shellfish allergy?

No, individuals with shellfish allergies should avoid smoked calamari.

What are the nutritional benefits of smoked calamari?

It is rich in protein, Vitamin B12, and selenium, which support energy levels and immune function.

How is smoked calamari made?

Smoked calamari is made by curing squid and then smoking it to enhance its flavor.

Can I freeze smoked calamari?

Yes, you can freeze smoked calamari, but it may alter the texture.

What dishes can I make with smoked calamari?

You can use smoked calamari in salads, pasta dishes, or as a pizza topping.

Is smoked calamari safe to eat during pregnancy?

Consult with a healthcare provider, as some seafood can contain high levels of mercury.