Are you a seafood lover looking to spice up your meals? Look no further! Today, we’re diving into the world of squid recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. Whether you like it grilled, fried, or in a hearty stew, there’s a recipe out there for you.
From classic Mediterranean dishes to spicy Korean stir-fries and even Japanese-style sashimi, our list of 18 delicious squid recipes has something for everyone. So, grab your apron, sharpen those knives, and get ready to sink your teeth into some seriously tasty cephalopod cuisine!
Garlic Butter Grilled Squid
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of grilled squid, elevated by a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers looking to impress with a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and cut squid (tentacles and bodies)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Brush both sides of the squid with olive oil and season with salt.
4. Grill squid for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, melt the garlic butter mixture on the grill or in a saucepan over low heat.
6. Serve grilled squid with garlic butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Aioli
Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Aioli: A flavorful and crispy take on a seafood classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound calamari rings
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon Aioli (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip calamari rings into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry calamari rings in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately with Lemon Aioli.
Lemon Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes, depending on the number of batches you fry.
Spicy Korean Stir-Fried Squid
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional squid dishes, this recipe combines the tender chew of calamari with the bold flavors of Korea’s iconic chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound squid rings (frozen or fresh)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent (about 2 minutes).
3. Add squid; stir-fry until opaque and cooked through (about 3-4 minutes).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, chili flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the spicy sauce over the squid mixture; stir-fry for an additional minute to combine.
6. Garnish with green onions; serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mediterranean Stuffed Squid with Feta and Herbs
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, featuring tender squid stuffed with a savory blend of feta cheese, fresh herbs, and Mediterranean spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large squid tubes
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the squid tubes under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, mix together feta cheese, parsley, dill, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each squid tube with the feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tubes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed squid on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the squid is cooked through and the filling is golden brown.
8. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Thai-Style Spicy Squid Salad
Thai-Style Spicy Squid Salad: A flavorful and spicy salad that combines succulent squid with a tangy and sour dressing, perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and sliced squid (tentacles and bodies)
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and mint)
– 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup diced mango
– 2 tablespoons Thai chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts or cashews for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cilantro, red onion, and mango.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Thai chili flakes, fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar until well combined.
3. Add the squid slices to the dressing mixture and toss to coat.
4. Pour the squid-dressing mixture over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped peanuts or cashews if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Squid Ink Pasta with Garlic and Chili
Elevate your pasta game with this bold and flavorful dish, featuring the rich, dark squid ink pasta paired with aromatic garlic and a kick of chili heat.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2-3 dried red chilies, crushed or 1-2 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
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 pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant and golden.
3. Add the crushed red chilies or red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked squid ink spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with the garlic and chili mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Squid Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce
Grilled Squid Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple and delicious recipe for grilled squid skewers, paired with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned squid tubes, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Chimichurri Sauce (recipe below)
Chimichurri Sauce:
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves and stems
– 1 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 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, then season with salt, black pepper, and minced garlic.
4. Grill squid for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and cooked through.
5. Serve with Chimichurri Sauce.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Portuguese Squid Stew with Tomatoes and Potatoes
A hearty and flavorful Portuguese stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this Caldeirada de Lulas is a staple of coastal cuisine. With tender squid, creamy potatoes, and rich tomato broth, it’s a dish that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned squid rings
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the potatoes, tomatoes, squid, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Japanese Ika Sansai (Squid and Vegetable Stir-Fry)
This classic Japanese dish combines tender squid with a colorful medley of vegetables, all stir-fried to perfection. Enjoy the harmonious balance of flavors and textures in this quick and easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb squid rings
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans, mushrooms)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chili flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the squid rings and cook until opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked squid back into the pan, along with soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir-fry for an additional minute to combine flavors.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spanish-Style Squid in Red Wine Sauce
A classic Spanish dish that combines the tender and flavorful squid with a rich red wine sauce, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and cut squid (tentacles and bodies)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Spanish Rioja or similar)
– 1 cup fish broth
– 1 teaspoon smoked 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 pieces and cook until they start to turn white, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the red wine, fish broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the squid is cooked through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan-Seared Squid with Garlic and White Wine
This recipe showcases the tender and flavorful side of squid when cooked with aromatic garlic and white wine. With its delicate texture and rich flavor profile, this dish is perfect for a quick yet impressive meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cleaned and patted dry squid rings
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 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 minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the squid rings and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn opaque and slightly firm to the touch.
4. Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.
5. Simmer the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has reduced slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vietnamese Squid and Pork Stuffed Squid Tubes
Discover the bold flavors of Vietnam with this unique and delicious recipe, where tender squid tubes are filled with a savory mixture of pork, onions, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 squid tubes
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat a deep frying pan or wok with about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce, grated ginger, and black pepper.
3. Stuff each squid tube with the pork mixture, making sure to fill them evenly.
4. When the oil is hot, carefully add the stuffed squid tubes and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil and season with salt to taste. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 6-8 minutes total.
Greek-Style Stuffed Squid with Rice and Dill
Experience the Mediterranean flavors of Greece in this unique and delicious stuffed squid recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 cleaned and patted dry squid tubes (about 12 inches long)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, chopped dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each squid tube with the rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the four squids.
4. Place the stuffed squids on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the squids and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the squid is tender and the filling is lightly browned.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Blackened Squid Tacos with Mango Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful combination of tender blackened squid, crunchy slaw, and sweet mango salsa. Perfect for a quick and impressive meal or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound squid rings
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 corn tortillas
– Mango salsa (recipe below)
– Lime wedges, for serving
– Slaw (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
3. Add squid rings and toss to coat evenly.
4. Grill squid for 2-3 minutes per side, until blackened and cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping in damp paper towels and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled squid, mango salsa, slaw, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves
– Juice of 1 lime
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Serve with tacos.
Slaw:
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/4 cup shredded carrot
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt, to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until combined. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Chinese Salt and Pepper Squid
This popular Chinese street food recipe is a perfect combination of crispy texture and bold flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate the authentic taste of Beijing’s night markets at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound squid rings
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup salt and pepper blend (or to taste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the squid rings to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
3. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 10 seconds.
4. Add the coated squid rings and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown.
5. Add soy sauce, water, and salt and pepper blend. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Baked Stuffed Squid with Breadcrumbs and Parmesan
Savor the tender flesh of squid stuffed with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 cleaned and patted dry squid tubes (about 1 pound)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each squid tube with the breadcrumb mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
4. Place the stuffed squid on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the squid.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the squid is tender and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Indonesian Sambal Squid with Coconut Milk
This recipe combines the flavors of Southeast Asia with the tender sweetness of squid, all wrapped up in a creamy coconut milk sauce. Sambal Squid is a popular street food in Indonesia, and this version is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned squid tubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 teaspoons sambal oelek (chili paste)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, onion, and squid; cook until squid is opaque and slightly tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sambal oelek and stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until squid is cooked through.
6. Season with soy sauce and fish sauce (if using); adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peruvian Ceviche with Squid and Lime
Experience the bold flavors of Peru with this refreshing ceviche, featuring tender squid marinated in zesty lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and sliced calamari (squid)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the squid slices.
2. Pour in the lime juice, making sure that all the squid is coated.
3. Add the chopped onion and cilantro on top of the squid.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 15 minutes
– Total time: 45 minutes (including marinating)
Summary
Get ready to dive into the world of delicious squid recipes! From classic grilled squid to spicy stir-fries, and from Mediterranean stuffed squid to Asian-inspired dishes, this article features 18 mouth-watering squid recipes that will satisfy any seafood lover. With a range of flavors and cooking methods, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a show-stopping dish for a special occasion, these recipes are sure to impress.