Tender, smoky, and bursting with bright Mediterranean flavors, grilled calamari is a surprisingly simple yet elegant dish that will impress your guests. Forget tough, rubbery calamari rings – this recipe unlocks the seafood's delicate sweetness with a quick marinade and a flash on the grill. The perfectly charred exterior gives way to a succulent interior, enhanced by the zesty bite of lemon and a subtle kick of chili. This recipe transforms a humble ingredient into a star of the plate, perfect for a summer barbecue or a sophisticated weeknight meal.
This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through each step, from preparing the calamari to achieving that perfect grill mark. Get ready to experience the delightful contrast of textures and tastes, as juicy calamari meets the vibrant flavors of lemon and chili. Let’s get started!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Flat Steel Pan
Ingredients
- Calamari
- Onion
- Ginger
- Celery
- Garlic
- Red Chili
- Lemon
- Lemon Zest
- Salt
- Ground Black Pepper
- Lemon Juice
- Sesame Oil
- Boiling Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Calamari
- Add calamari to boiling water and let it boil for seven to eight minutes until soft and tender.
- In a separate pot, sauté garlic, onion, and ginger with salt and pepper.
- Drain the calamari and combine it with the sautéed mixture, along with lemon juice, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Marinate
- In a separate pot, sauté garlic, onion, and ginger with salt and pepper.
- Drain the calamari and combine it with the sautéed mixture, along with lemon juice, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper.
Step 3. Grill the Calamari
- Heat a flat steel pan and add sesame oil.
- Grill the calamari for about three minutes on each side.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Add chopped chili, celery, lemon juice, and sesame oil to the pan with the grilled calamari. Mix well.
- Serve immediately.
Read more: Arabian Flame Grilled Fish (Samak Mashwi) Recipe
Tips
- Use fresh calamari if possible, but frozen works too.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen calamari for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it very dry before marinating and grilling. Frozen calamari can release extra moisture, leading to steaming instead of grilling.
2. How do I know when the calamari is cooked?
The calamari is done when it's opaque and slightly firm to the touch, usually only taking a few minutes per side on the grill. Overcooked calamari will be tough.
This simple recipe elevates grilled calamari from a mere appetizer to a show-stopping dish. With minimal effort, you can enjoy the incredible flavor and texture of perfectly grilled seafood infused with bright, zesty notes. So fire up the grill and prepare to be amazed!