Grilled Squid with Bean Sprout Salad and Garlic-Ginger Drizzle
Prep
20 mins
Cook
12 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Medium
This is one of my favorite quick weeknight dinners because it comes together in just half an hour from start to finish. Fresh squid grills beautifully in minutes, getting tender and slightly charred, and the crisp bean sprouts add such a refreshing crunch to every bite. Bean sprouts are packed with vitamin C and enzymes that aid digestion, making this dish as nourishing as it is delicious. The garlic and ginger drizzle ties everything together with its warm, zingy flavor that feels restaurant quality but requires almost no effort. It's the kind of meal that impresses guests without keeping you stuck in the kitchen, and it won't break the bank either.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 1.2 kgfresh squid(cleaned, bodies and tentacles separated)
- 710 mlfresh bean sprouts(rinsed and drained)
- 4garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 tablespoonsfresh ginger(grated)
- 3 tablespoonssoy sauce
- 2 tablespoonsrice vinegar
- 3 tablespoonssesame oil
- 2 tablespoonsolive oil(for grilling)
- 2scallions(thinly sliced)
- ½ teaspoonred chili flakes
- 1 tablespoonlime juice
- to tastesalt and black pepper
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Pat the squid dry with paper towels and score the bodies lightly in a crosshatch pattern on both sides. This helps the squid cook evenly and creates texture. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Tip: Scoring the squid also helps it absorb the flavors better and creates appealing grill marks.
- 2
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to high heat. Lightly brush the squid with olive oil on all sides.
Tip: Make sure the grill is smoking hot before adding the squid to ensure a good char in just 2-3 minutes per side.
- 3
Grill the squid bodies for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque and have light char marks. Grill the tentacles for 1-2 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 2 minutes, then slice bodies into rings.
Tip: Don't overcook the squid or it becomes rubbery—timing is crucial for tenderness.
- 4
While the squid cooks, prepare the garlic-ginger drizzle by combining minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, and red chili flakes in a small bowl. Whisk until emulsified.
Tip: This drizzle can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- 5
Place the fresh bean sprouts in a large serving bowl and toss gently with half of the garlic-ginger drizzle and a pinch of salt until evenly coated.
Tip: Handle the bean sprouts delicately to keep them from breaking apart.
- 6
Arrange the grilled squid over the bean sprout salad. Drizzle the remaining garlic-ginger sauce over the squid and garnish with sliced scallions.
Tip: Serve immediately while the squid is still warm for the best contrast with the cool, crisp sprouts.
Recipe Variations
Get AI-powered ingredient substitution suggestions.
You Might Also Like
Tropical Quinoa
This tropical quinoa bowl has become my go to weeknight dinner because it comes together in just forty minutes and tastes like a mini vacation on a plate. Quinoa is one of my favorite ingredients since it's a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids, making it so satisfying and perfect for keeping energy levels steady. The combination of papaya, red bell pepper, and fresh cilantro brings vibrant flavors and colors, while the rice wine vinegar and orange zest add just the right brightness. Best part is the ingredient list is simple and affordable, yet feels fancy enough to impress anyone at your table.
Beergarita
My go to drink for summer gatherings is this refreshing Beergarita, and let me tell you, it's a total crowd pleaser. The combination of tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, and a cold Corona creates something that tastes way more complicated than it actually is. Lime juice is packed with vitamin C, which is great for your immune system, and the whole thing takes just five minutes to throw together. Best part? It's incredibly budget friendly since you're probably already stocking most of these ingredients anyway.
Yuzu Collins
Have you tried a Yuzu Collins? This is my go to drink when I want something refreshing that comes together in just five minutes. The yuzu juice adds this beautiful citrus brightness that feels fancy but honestly couldn't be easier to make. I love that yuzu is packed with vitamin C, so you're basically getting a little immune boost while you enjoy your cocktail. It's the kind of drink that impresses friends without requiring any special bartending skills, perfect for a casual evening at home.
Reviews
Sign in to write a review.