Are you a seafood lover looking to spice up your culinary game? Look no further! Squid, also known as calamari, is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be prepared in a multitude of ways. From crispy fried treats to flavorful stir-fries, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering squid recipes to try.
Whether you’re a fan of spicy Korean flavors or classic Mediterranean herbs, there’s something for everyone on this list. And the best part? Many of these recipes are quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. So go ahead, dive in, and get ready to reel in some serious flavor!
Garlic Butter Grilled Squid
Elevate your seafood game with this succulent and flavorful recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound squid tubes, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Brush the squid pieces with the garlic butter mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the squid for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it’s opaque and slightly charred.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Aioli
Experience the perfect combination of crispy and tender with this simple recipe for Crispy Fried Calamari, served with a zesty Lemon Aioli.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and cut calamari tubes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon Aioli ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 minced clove of garlic
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate dish.
3. Dip calamari tubes into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated calamari for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. For the Lemon Aioli, mix together mayonnaise, lemon juice, and garlic in a bowl. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Korean Stir-Fried Squid
Savor the bold flavors of Korea with this spicy stir-fry recipe, featuring succulent squid, crunchy vegetables, and a kick of gochujang.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb squid rings (cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Add squid and cook until opaque and slightly charred, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper.
5. Pour the sauce over the squid mixture and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the squid is fully coated.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mediterranean Stuffed Squid with Feta and Herbs
Transform ordinary squid into a flavorful Mediterranean masterpiece by stuffing it with feta, herbs, and spices. This recipe combines the tender texture of squid with the savory flavors of Greece.
Ingredients:
– 4 cleaned and patted dry squid tubes
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together feta cheese, olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each squid tube with the feta mixture, making sure to fill evenly.
4. Place stuffed squid on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until squid is tender and filling is heated through.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Squid
Thai Coconut Curry Squid Recipe
Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this quick and delicious squid dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned squid, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add squid and cook until opaque and just cooked through (2-3 minutes per side).
4. Stir in coconut milk, water, curry paste, fish sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Squid Skewers with Chimichurri
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this flavorful and refreshing seafood skewer recipe, perfect for a summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned squid tubes, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup chimichurri sauce (see below)
– 10 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges, parsley leaves, or other herbs for garnish
Chimichurri Sauce:
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread squid pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush squid with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until squid is opaque and slightly charred.
5. Serve immediately with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Squid Ink Pasta with Garlic and Chili
Experience the bold flavors of Italy with this vibrant squid ink pasta recipe, infused with pungent garlic and a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chili flakes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the squid ink pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add chili flakes to the pan and stir well. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the pan with the garlic-chili mixture. Toss well to combine.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Garlic-chili preparation time: 3-4 minutes
Spanish Squid in Red Wine Sauce
Spanish Squid in Red Wine Sauce Recipe
Experience the bold flavors of Spain with this hearty squid dish smothered in a rich red wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cleaned and cut squid (tentacles and bodies)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Rioja or Tempranillo)
– 1 cup fish broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the squid and cook until it starts to change color, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Pour in the red wine and fish broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the squid is tender.
7. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Ika Sansai (Squid and Mountain Vegetable Salad)
This refreshing salad combines tender squid with a variety of mountain vegetables, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 250g squid rings
– 1/2 cup shredded daikon radish
– 1/2 cup shredded lotus root
– 1/4 cup sliced shungiku (chrysanthemum greens)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the squid rings into smaller pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine daikon radish, lotus root, shungiku, and squid.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pan-Seared Squid with Garlic and White Wine
This recipe yields a tender and flavorful squid dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With the combination of garlic, white wine, and a crispy pan-sear, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and cut squid rings
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the squid rings and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they start to brown.
4. Pour in the white wine and stir to deglaze the pan.
5. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until the squid is cooked through and the liquid has reduced slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Squid and Chorizo Paella
A classic Spanish dish gets a seafood twist with this recipe that combines the tender bite of squid with the spicy kick of chorizo.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Bomba rice (or short-grain rice)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 12 oz cleaned and cut squid rings
– 6 slices chorizo, sliced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add squid rings; cook until slightly opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add chorizo; cook for an additional minute.
5. Add rice, water, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vietnamese Squid Salad with Fresh Herbs
This refreshing salad combines the tender sweetness of squid with the brightness of fresh herbs, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound cleaned and cut squid (calamari), tentacles and bodies
• 2 cups mixed fresh herbs (basil, mint, cilantro, dill)
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add squid and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked squid, mixed herbs, scallions, garlic, fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Grilled Squid with Olive Oil and Lemon
Experience the Mediterranean flavors of Greece with this simple yet flavorful recipe for grilled squid.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound cleaned and patted dry squid, cut into rings or tentacle-shaped pieces
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Add the squid pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove the squid from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill the squid for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of salt.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Greek Grilled Squid!
Portuguese Squid Stew with Potatoes
A hearty and flavorful seafood stew from Portugal, this recipe combines tender squid rings with chunky potatoes, garlic, and herbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and cut squid rings
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Add the squid rings, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chinese Salt and Pepper Squid
In this recipe, tender squid rings are coated with a flavorful mixture of salt, pepper, and spices, then quickly stir-fried to perfection. A classic Chinese street food, this dish is easy to make and packed with umami flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and cut squid rings
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1 teaspoon white pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together salt, white pepper, Szechuan peppercorns, and sugar.
2. Add the squid rings to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
4. Add the coated squid rings to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until they start to change color.
5. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for another minute, until the squid is cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with soy sauce (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Indian Squid Masala with Coconut Milk
Experience the rich flavors of India with this succulent Squid Masala recipe, elevated by the creamy richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb squid rings (cleaned and cut)
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
– 1/2 tsp red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until they start browning.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add squid rings and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they change color and are cooked through.
4. Pour in coconut milk and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot over rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Italian Stuffed Squid with Breadcrumbs and Parsley
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this simple yet impressive squid dish, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
• 4 large squid tubes (cleaned and cut open)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Stuff each squid tube with the breadcrumb mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tubes.
4. Season the stuffed squid with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the squid and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the squid is tender and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Peruvian Ceviche de Calamar
In this recipe, we’ll explore the classic Peruvian dish, Ceviche de Calamar, a refreshing and flavorful ceviche made with tender squid rings, lime juice, and aromatic spices. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as an appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and cut squid (tentacles and bodies), into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine squid, lime juice, onion, cilantro, and ginger.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to allow the squid to “cook” in the lime juice.
3. Just before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve the ceviche chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours (depending on marinating time)
Summary
Get ready to dive into the world of seafood with these 18 delicious squid recipes! From classic dishes like garlic butter grilled squid and crispy fried calamari, to international inspirations such as spicy Korean stir-fried squid and Mediterranean stuffed squid with feta and herbs, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing salad or a hearty and flavorful stew, these recipes are sure to satisfy your seafood cravings.
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