Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey like no other! Squid ink pasta is a game-changer, adding a mysterious depth of flavor and a touch of elegance to any dish. And when paired with creamy sauces and an array of delicious ingredients, the result is nothing short of mouthwatering. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 creamy squid ink pasta delicacies that will take your taste buds on a wild ride.
From classic combinations like shrimp and garlic butter to bold pairings like chorizo and cherry tomatoes, each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the rich, velvety texture of squid ink pasta. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and zesty or hearty and indulgent, there’s something on this list for everyone.
So grab a fork and let’s dive into the world of creamy squid ink pasta!
Squid Ink Pasta with Garlic Butter Shrimp
This recipe combines the rich flavor of squid ink pasta with the savory taste of garlic butter shrimp, creating a dish that’s both elegant and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp butter and white wine (if using). Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter shrimp, and sauce in a serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Squid Ink Pasta with Crab Meat
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and indulgent dish featuring squid ink pasta, succulent crab meat, and a decadent creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz squid ink pasta
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook squid ink pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add crab meat; stir until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and creamy sauce; toss until well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Squid Ink Linguine with Lemon and Chili
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe, featuring squid ink linguine, zesty lemon, and a hint of spicy chili. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink linguine
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1-2 dried red chili flakes (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the lemon juice and chili flakes; stir to combine.
3. Drain the cooked linguine and add it to the pan with the lemon mixture. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Squid Ink Pasta with Seafood Medley
Elevate your pasta game with this dramatic yet flavorful dish featuring squid ink pasta, succulent seafood, and a hint of Mediterranean flair. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz squid ink pasta
– 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook squid ink pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed seafood and cook until pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add white wine and chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Combine cooked pasta with seafood mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Squid Ink Spaghetti with Mussels and White Wine Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful Italian-inspired dish, featuring the deep color of squid ink spaghetti paired with tender mussels and a zesty white wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink spaghetti
– 2 lbs mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook squid ink spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add mussels and cook until opened, about 3-4 minutes. Remove mussels from the pot, leaving the juices behind.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add white wine, chicken broth, and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Bring sauce to a simmer and cook until reduced by half, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in butter until melted. Combine cooked mussels with the sauce. Serve over squid ink spaghetti, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Truffle Squid Ink Pasta with Parmesan
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and decadent dish that combines the earthy flavors of truffle and squid ink pasta with the salty tang of Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup truffle butter (or shaved truffles)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the truffle butter (or shaved truffles) and cook until melted.
5. Combine cooked pasta, truffle mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Squid Ink Fettuccine with Scallops and Cream Sauce
This decadent pasta dish combines the richness of squid ink fettuccine with the tender sweetness of scallops, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink fettuccine
– 1 pound scallops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream. Stir in the butter until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the cooked fettuccine, reserved pasta water, and cream sauce. Toss to combine, adding more pasta water if needed.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Squid Ink Pasta with Chorizo and Cherry Tomatoes
This spicy pasta dish combines the rich flavors of squid ink pasta, chorizo sausage, and cherry tomatoes, all wrapped up in a bold and aromatic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz squid ink pasta
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook squid ink pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chorizo sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until crispy and golden brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Add garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they release their juices and start to caramelize (about 3-4 minutes).
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and chorizo-tomato mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Squid Ink Pasta with Calamari and Garlic Aioli
Experience the bold flavors of Italy with this rich and satisfying seafood pasta dish, featuring squid ink pasta paired with tender calamari and a tangy garlic aioli.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz squid ink pasta
– 1 lb cleaned and sliced calamari
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook squid ink pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add calamari and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, mix minced garlic with lemon juice and Dijon mustard.
4. Combine cooked pasta, calamari, and garlic aioli in a large serving bowl. Toss to coat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lobster Squid Ink Pasta with Herb Butter
A decadent yet elegant pasta dish featuring succulent lobster, rich squid ink pasta, and a flavorful herb butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious treat.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink pasta
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb cooked lobster meat (claw and body)
– White wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook squid ink pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add parsley, chives, and lemon zest; stir until well combined.
3. Add cooked lobster meat to the saucepan; toss gently to combine.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the lobster mixture, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Squid Ink Tagliatelle with Clams and Saffron
Elevate your pasta game with this elegant and flavorful dish, combining the rich taste of squid ink tagliatelle with succulent clams and a hint of saffron.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz squid ink tagliatelle
- 12 clams, scrubbed and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 1/4 cup clam juice
- 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook tagliatelle according to package instructions. Reserve.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent.
- Add clams, white wine, clam juice, and saffron mixture. Cook until clams open.
- Combine cooked tagliatelle with clam mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Squid Ink Pasta with Pancetta and Peas
A rich and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the deep color of squid ink pasta with the savory goodness of pancetta and sweet peas.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz squid ink pasta
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the squid ink pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute. If using white wine, add it and cook until reduced by half.
4. Add the peas to the skillet and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, pancetta mixture, and reserved pasta water in a large serving bowl. Toss everything together, adding Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Squid Ink Pasta with Grilled Octopus and Lemon Zest
This vibrant pasta dish combines the rich flavors of squid ink pasta, grilled octopus, and bright lemon zest for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink spaghetti
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
– Lemon zest for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season octopus with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender.
2. Cook squid ink spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, combine garlic, white wine (if using), and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
4. Add grilled octopus to the skillet and toss with pasta sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and octopus mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme and serve with lemon zest on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Squid Ink Risotto with Shrimp and Asparagus
This rich and flavorful risotto combines the deep umami of squid ink with succulent shrimp, tender asparagus, and a creamy sauce. A perfect dish for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup squid ink (available at most Italian markets)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat broth in a separate pot.
2. In a large skillet, combine olive oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add squid ink; stir to combine.
5. Gradually add warmed broth, stirring continuously, until absorbed.
6. Add shrimp and asparagus during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Squid Ink Pasta with Anchovies and Breadcrumbs
This recipe combines the rich flavors of squid ink pasta with the savory goodness of anchovies and crunchy breadcrumbs, creating a satisfying and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 6-8 anchovy fillets, rinsed and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the squid ink pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the chopped anchovies and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the panko breadcrumbs to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Combine cooked pasta, anchovy-breadcrumb mixture, and Parmesan cheese in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Squid Ink Spaghetti with Burrata and Basil
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Italy and Spain, featuring squid ink spaghetti tossed with creamy burrata cheese, sweet basil, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink spaghetti
– 1 ball burrata cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the squid ink spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Slice the burrata cheese into bite-sized pieces and add to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until melted and creamy.
4. Combine the cooked spaghetti, reserved pasta water, and burrata mixture in a large bowl. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Squid Ink Pasta with Smoked Salmon and Dill
This recipe combines the rich flavors of squid ink pasta, smoked salmon, and fresh dill to create a unique and mouthwatering dish. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 250g squid ink pasta
– 120g smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped dill
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the squid ink pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the flaked smoked salmon and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
3. Combine the cooked pasta, smoked salmon mixture, and chopped fresh dill in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Squid Ink Linguine with Mushrooms and Truffle Oil
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this decadent pasta dish, featuring squid ink linguine, earthy mushrooms, and a hint of truffle oil.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink linguine
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Truffle oil (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until tender and lightly browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add white wine and chicken broth; simmer for 2-3 minutes or until liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Combine cooked linguine with mushroom mixture; toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using truffle oil, drizzle over the pasta and toss gently. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure with these 18 creamy squid ink pasta delicacies! From classic combinations like Garlic Butter Shrimp and Crab Meat, to bold flavor profiles featuring Spicy Chorizo and Cherry Tomatoes, there’s something for every seafood lover. Elevate your pasta game with rich truffle and saffron-infused dishes, or keep it simple with a good ol’ fashioned Squid Ink Spaghetti. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood medleys, succulent shrimp, or decadent risottos, this collection of recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings.