Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! Pan-fried squid is the perfect solution for a weeknight meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make. This recipe delivers tender, succulent squid with a delightful crispy exterior, all in under 30 minutes. It's a fantastic option for those seeking easy recipes or quick dinner ideas, and it's sure to become a new favorite in your homemade cooking repertoire. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh squid, cleaned and cut into rings (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Squid: Pat the squid rings dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a crispy texture when pan-frying. Excess moisture will lead to steaming instead of browning.
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Season the Flour: In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
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Coat the Squid: Dredge each squid ring in the seasoned flour, ensuring it's evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
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Pan-Fry the Squid: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the squid rings to the skillet, avoiding overcrowding. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
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Cook the Squid: Cook the squid for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Do not overcook, as this will make the squid tough.
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Add Garlic: Once the squid is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
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Combine and Serve: Return the cooked squid to the skillet. Stir in the lemon juice and parsley (if using). Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to blend.
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Enjoy! Serve immediately. This pan-fried squid is delicious on its own or as part of a larger meal.
Tips for the Best Pan-Fried Squid:
- Freshness is Key: Use the freshest squid possible for the best flavor and texture. Look for squid with a pearly white color and a mild, slightly sweet aroma.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature of the oil and result in steamed, rather than pan-fried, squid.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or experiment with different herbs and spices.
Variations:
- Spicy Squid: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Lemon-Herb Squid: Incorporate different herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary for a more complex flavor profile.
- Garlic and Chili Squid: Add sliced chilies to the pan along with the garlic for a fiery and aromatic dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a serving size of approximately 4 ounces of cooked squid and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
Pan-fried squid is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are both healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Its versatility makes it a great option for weeknight meals or special occasions. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe and explore the many variations to create your perfect pan-fried squid experience. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike, so give it a try and impress your family and friends!