Grilled Calamari

Grilled Calamari

Grilled calamari is a simple yet exquisite dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. With its tender texture, smoky char, and light seasoning, this dish is a perfect appetizer or main course for seafood lovers.

Grilling calamari enhances its natural flavors while adding a subtle smokiness that pairs beautifully with fresh herbs and zesty lemon.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a romantic dinner, or simply craving a healthy seafood option, this Grilled Calamari recipe is easy to prepare and full of flavor. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

For the Calamari:

1 pound fresh calamari (cleaned, tentacles and tubes separated)

3 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

Juice of 1 lemon

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For the Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped

Lemon wedges

Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)

How to Make Grilled Calamari

Prepare the Calamari:

If your calamari isn’t pre-cleaned, clean it by removing the insides, beak, and outer membrane. Rinse thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

Marinate the Calamari:

In a large bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the cleaned calamari tubes and tentacles to the bowl, tossing them to coat evenly. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Preheat the Grill:

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Grill the Calamari:

Once the grill is hot, place the calamari tubes and tentacles on the grates. Grill the tubes for 2-3 minutes per side, and the tentacles for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are slightly charred and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as calamari can become rubbery.

Serve the Calamari:

Transfer the grilled calamari to a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and lemon wedges on the side. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or crusty bread.

Chef’s Note

Choosing Fresh Calamari: Look for calamari that smells clean and fresh, with firm, shiny flesh. If using frozen calamari, thaw it completely and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture.

Marinade Variations: Add a splash of white wine, chili flakes, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor twist.

Cooking Tip: Calamari cooks quickly. For the best texture, aim for a short cook time on high heat or a longer braise for tenderness. Avoid in-between cooking times that may make it tough.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 180

Protein: 22g

Carbohydrates: 2g

Fat: 9g

Fiber: 0g

Sodium: 250mg

Conclusion

Grilled calamari is a healthy and flavorful dish that highlights the natural taste of fresh seafood. This recipe’s minimal ingredients and quick cooking time make it a go-to option for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or the star of the meal, Grilled Calamari is sure to impress your guests and transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean. Buon appetito!