Grilled Squid with Rocket
Prep
20 mins
Cook
8 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Medium
This is one of my favorite quick weeknight dinners because it comes together in less than half an hour. Grilled squid is wonderfully tender when cooked properly, and pairing it with peppery rocket creates a dish that feels restaurant quality but costs just a few pounds to make. Squid is packed with protein and selenium, which supports your immune system beautifully. The real magic happens when you char the squid on a hot grill and toss it with garlicky olive oil, fresh lemon, and that peppery rocket. It's simple, delicious, and honest food that never fails to impress.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 800 gsquid tubes(cleaned)
- 150 gfresh rocket
- 5garlic cloves(minced)
- 3 tablespoonsfresh lemon juice
- 6 tablespoonsextra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoondried red chili flakes
- 1 teaspoonsea salt
- ½ teaspoonblack pepper
- 2 tablespoonsfresh parsley(chopped)
- 1lemon(cut into wedges)
- 3garlic cloves for crisping(thinly sliced)
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Pat the squid tubes dry with paper towels and score the inner surfaces lightly in a crosshatch pattern to prevent curling and aid in even cooking.
Tip: Dry squid is key to achieving a nice exterior texture on the grill.
- 2
In a bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, 3 minced garlic cloves, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
Tip: Make the marinade at least 10 minutes ahead for the flavors to meld.
- 3
Place squid tubes in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, coating evenly. Let sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
Tip: Don't marinate too long or the lemon juice will begin to cook the squid.
- 4
Heat a grill pan or barbecue to high heat until smoking. Brush the grill grates lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
Tip: A very hot grill ensures the squid cooks quickly and gets a nice charred exterior.
- 5
Remove squid from marinade and grill for 1.5-2 minutes per side until opaque and lightly charred. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
Tip: Overcooked squid becomes rubbery; these quick minutes are crucial.
- 6
While squid cooks, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add thinly sliced garlic and cook gently for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy.
Tip: Watch the garlic carefully to prevent burning; it should be fragrant and light golden.
- 7
Arrange fresh rocket on serving plates and dress lightly with a pinch of salt and a small drizzle of the garlic-infused oil.
Tip: The warm garlic oil will slightly wilt the rocket and enhance its peppery flavor.
- 8
Top the rocket with grilled squid pieces and scatter crispy garlic chips over the top. Finish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon wedge.
Tip: Serve immediately while the squid is still warm for the best flavor and texture.
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