Garlic Lemon Squid Rings
In short: Tender squid rings flash-cooked in a very hot pan with garlic, chili, lemon and parsley. Ready in under 20 minutes and good over rice or salad. It takes about 18 min in total and makes 3 servings.
- Prep
- 10 min
- Cook
- 8 min
- Total
- 18 min
- Servings
- 3
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Calories
- 210 kcal
Squid has a reputation for turning rubbery, but the fix is simple: cook it either very briefly or for a long time. This recipe takes the quick route, with a hot pan and about 90 seconds of cooking. The squid stays tender and sweet, and garlic, chili and lemon give it a bright finish. Serve it over rice, tossed with pasta or on a bed of salad leaves.
Instructions
- Pat the squid very dry with paper towels. Season it with the salt and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over high heat for about 2 minutes, until very hot. Add 1 tbsp of the oil.
- Add half the squid in a single layer. Cook for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes, stirring once, until it turns opaque and curls and the edges are lightly golden. Move it to a plate and repeat with the rest.
- Return the pan to medium heat, add the remaining oil, the garlic and the chili flakes and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Return all the squid to the pan with the lemon zest, lemon juice and parsley. Toss for 15 seconds, just to warm through.
- Serve immediately, because squid toughens as it cools.
Tips
- Squid should cook for under 2 minutes, or for 30 minutes and more in a braise. Anything in between is rubbery.
- Buy cleaned squid to save time, or ask the fishmonger to clean it. Frozen squid is often better than fresh squid that has been sitting out.
Questions and answers
Why does squid turn rubbery?
Squid proteins tighten quickly and stay tough until they break down after about 30 minutes of simmering. Cook it for 90 seconds or braise it long, and avoid the middle.
Can I use frozen squid?
Yes. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and pat it very dry. Frozen squid is often fresher than the thawed squid at some counters.
What can I serve with garlic squid?
Steamed rice, boiled potatoes or a simple salad. Pasta or crusty bread also work, using gluten-free versions if needed.
How long does it take to make Garlic Lemon Squid Rings?
About 18 min in total: 10 min of preparation and 8 min of cooking.
How many calories are in Garlic Lemon Squid Rings?
About 210 kcal per serving, with 23 g of protein, 5 g of carbohydrates and 11 g of fat. These values are estimates.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 210 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 23 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 470 mg |
Estimated values, calculated from the ingredients.
