If you love restaurant-quality seafood dishes that are easy to prepare at home, this grilled calamari steak recipe is for you! This recipe stands out because it’s quick, healthy, and loaded with bold flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or an elegant meal to impress your guests, this calamari steak will become a household favorite. Let’s dive into the details and bring some gourmet magic to your kitchen.
Grilled Calamari Steak Recipe
Difficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes10
minutes210
kcalA quick and easy Grilled calamari steak recipe that delivers tender, flavorful seafood with a zesty Mediterranean twist.
Ingredients
4 calamari steaks
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges, for serving
Directions
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the steaks: Place calamari steaks in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for 10 minutes, turning halfway.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the calamari: Place the marinated calamari steaks on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until grill marks appear and the steaks are just cooked through. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Fresh calamari steaks yield the best results; frozen steaks should be thawed completely and patted dry.
- Adjust the level of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
Tips and Tricks For The Best Grilled Calamari Steak Recipe
- Choose high-quality steaks: Opt for fresh calamari steaks from a trusted fishmonger to ensure the best taste and texture.
- Marination is key: Allow the steaks to marinate for at least 10 minutes to infuse them with flavor. However, avoid marinating for too long as the acid from the lemon can break down the proteins.
- Don’t overcook: Calamari cooks quickly. Overcooking will make the steaks rubbery, so stick to the recommended grilling time.
- Use a hot grill: A properly preheated grill ensures even cooking and those beautiful char marks.
- Rest before serving: Let the calamari steaks rest for a minute after grilling to retain their juices.
What Can You Serve With Calamari ?
- Grilled vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus are excellent choices.
- Mediterranean sides: A fresh Greek salad or herbed couscous complements the flavors beautifully.
- Crusty bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the zesty juices.
How to Store
- Refrigerator: Store leftover calamari steaks in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side. Avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Making Grilled Calamari Steak Recipe
- Skipping the marinade: This step enhances the flavor significantly.
- Overcooking: Always monitor the cooking time carefully to avoid tough calamari.
- Using low heat: A hot grill is essential for proper searing and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, squid can be used, but the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness.
While not mandatory, marination greatly enhances the flavor and tenderness of the steaks.
Absolutely! A grill pan or even a cast-iron skillet works perfectly for this recipe.
In just a few simple steps, you can bring the magic of the Grilled calamari steak recipe to your table. This dish combines gourmet flavors with effortless preparation, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether paired with Mediterranean sides or served on its own, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!
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