Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This grilled squid recipe is your answer. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners, and the results are unbelievably flavorful. Prepare to impress yourself and your guests with this simple yet elegant dish. This recipe is perfect for those warm summer evenings, offering a light and satisfying meal, and is a great addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh squid, cleaned and cut into rings or tubes (you can ask your fishmonger to clean them for you)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Squid
In a medium bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the squid rings or tubes and gently toss to coat evenly. Let the squid marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grill grates to prevent sticking. For best results, lightly oil the grates with a little more olive oil.
Step 3: Grill the Squid
Place the marinated squid on the hot grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the squid is tender and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook the squid, as it can become tough.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the grilled squid from the grill and transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. This delicious dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Grilled Squid:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Give the squid enough space to cook evenly. Work in batches if necessary.
- Watch carefully: Squid cooks quickly. Overcooked squid will be tough and rubbery.
- Use fresh squid: Fresh squid will have the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add other herbs and spices to the marinade, such as chili flakes for a spicier kick.
Variations:
- Mediterranean Grilled Squid: Add crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives to the marinade.
- Spicy Grilled Squid: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped fresh chili peppers to the marinade.
- Grilled Squid with Vegetables: Grill some bell peppers, zucchini, and onions alongside the squid for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on serving size and specific ingredients used. However, grilled squid is generally a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-fat meal, rich in vitamins and minerals.
This easy recipe provides a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, and is sure to become a new favorite among your delicious dishes. Enjoy!