Why You’ll Love Squid Saganaki with Tomato and Vegan Cheese Recipe
This recipe is easy to make and delivers bold Mediterranean flavor with very little fuss. The squid cooks in a fragrant tomato sauce with onion, garlic, basil, and a splash of ouzo, then finishes in the oven with vegan white cheese for a deliciously saucy and satisfying result. It is a great option for fasting days, seafood dinners, or anytime you want something hearty without being too heavy.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
370 g canned squid
200 g vegan white cheese
1 green pepper
1 onion
1 clove garlic
6-10 basil leaves
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 pinch granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
50 g ouzo
500 g grated tomatoes
Salt
Black pepper
For serving:
Chopped basil
Toasted bread
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 230°C and set it to broil if possible.
- Prepare the vegetables. Thinly slice the green pepper and onion, and finely chop the garlic. Crumble or cut the vegan white cheese into small pieces.
- Drain the canned squid well. If the pieces are large, cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof pan or a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and green pepper, and sauté until they soften.
- Stir in the garlic, chili flakes, and tomato paste. Cook for about a minute so the tomato paste deepens in flavor.
- Add the ouzo and let it cook briefly so the alcohol reduces.
- Pour in the grated tomatoes and add the sugar. Season with salt and black pepper, then stir in the basil leaves.
- Add the squid to the sauce and cook for a few minutes, just until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Scatter the vegan white cheese over the top of the mixture.
- Transfer the pan to the oven, or pour everything into a baking dish if needed. Bake until the cheese softens and the top takes on a little color, about 15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and finish with chopped basil. Serve hot with toasted bread for dipping into the sauce.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 6 servings.
Estimated total time: 20 minutes
Variations
You can make a few simple changes depending on what you have on hand. Use fresh squid instead of canned for a more delicate texture, just be careful not to overcook it. Add a little extra heat with more chili flakes or a chopped hot pepper. For a deeper tomato flavor, let the sauce simmer a few extra minutes before baking. You can also add capers, olives, or a little parsley for a different Mediterranean twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven until warmed through. Avoid overheating, since squid can become tough if cooked too long. If the sauce thickens too much after chilling, add a small splash of water while reheating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh squid instead of canned squid?
Yes, fresh squid works very well in this recipe. Clean it well, slice it into rings, and cook it just until tender so it does not become rubbery.
What does saganaki mean?
Saganaki refers to a Greek style of cooking and serving food in a small pan, often with a rich sauce or melted cheese.
Is this recipe completely dairy-free?
It is dairy-free as long as you use a vegan white cheese made without milk-based ingredients.
Can I skip the ouzo?
Yes, you can leave it out if needed. The dish will still taste delicious, though the ouzo adds a classic Greek flavor.
What can I use instead of ouzo?
You can use a splash of white wine or vegetable stock if you want another option.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes, add more chili flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the sauce for extra heat.
What should I serve with squid saganaki?
Toasted bread is a classic choice, but you can also serve it with rice, couscous, or a simple green salad.
How do I keep squid tender?
Cook it briefly and avoid long reheating. Squid is best when cooked quickly or simmered carefully for the right amount of time.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato sauce in advance and assemble the dish later before baking.
Is this dish an appetizer or a main course?
It can be either. Serve it in smaller portions as an appetizer or pair it with bread or a side for a main meal.
Conclusion
Squid saganaki with tomato and vegan cheese is a simple, flavor-packed dish that feels both comforting and special. With its savory tomato base, tender squid, fragrant basil, and creamy dairy-free cheese, it is the kind of recipe that comes together quickly but tastes like something far more elaborate. Whether you serve it as a meze or the star of the meal, it is a dish worth making again and again.
