Seafood salad is common in Italian American households, especially on Christmas Eve, La Vigilia, and almost always as an appetizer on menus in Italian American restaurants. As popular as the seafood salad is in the United States, in Italy one is more likely to find a simple salad like this version, containing one kind of seafood. What is most important in this recipe is not to overcook the calamari.
Recipe information
Yield
serves 6
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Pour 2 inches of water into a large Dutch oven or pot and bring to a boil. Add the bay leaves and lemon peel, and continue to boil for a few minutes, until they release their aromas.
Step 2
Set a colander or steamer over (but not touching) the water. Slip the calamari rings and tentacles into the colander or steamer, adjust the heat so the water is simmering, and cover. Cook until the calamari is just cooked through and has gone from opaque to translucent, about 6 to 7 minutes.
Step 3
Combine the olives, celery, roasted pepper, salt, oregano, peperoncino, and lemon juice in a large bowl. When the calamari is done, add it to the bowl, drizzle with the olive oil, and toss. Sprinkle in the parsley, toss again, and serve warm or at room temperature.
