This Garlicky Calamari with Basil, Chile, and Lime is a quick, Mediterranean-inspired dish that delivers big flavors with minimal effort. The tender squid is sautéed to perfection with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs, then topped with a zesty combination of chile heat and lime brightness. The dish is ideal for a fast, healthy weeknight dinner. Serve it with crusty bread or over couscous for a light yet satisfying meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 pound cleaned squid (cut into rings)

• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)

• Kosher salt, to taste

• 1 jalapeño or serrano chile (sliced thinly, seeds optional)

• 2 garlic cloves (finely chopped)

• Fresh lime juice (to taste)

• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)

• Crusty bread (for serving)

Directions

1. Prepare the Squid:

   • Wash and drain the squid under cold running water. Pat the squid dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove all moisture, ensuring the squid will sear rather than steam. Slice the squid into ½-inch rings and set aside.

2. Cook the Squid:

   • Heat a 12-inch skillet over high heat for about 5 minutes until very hot. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Season half of the squid with salt and add it to the skillet along with half of the sliced chile. Let the squid cook undisturbed for 1 minute to allow it to brown. Flip the squid and cook for another 1-2 minutes until tender, stirring in half the garlic during the final 20 seconds of cooking. Transfer the cooked squid to a plate.

3. Repeat Cooking:

   • Repeat the cooking process with the remaining olive oil, squid, chile, and garlic, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.

4. Finish the Dish:

   • Once all the squid is cooked, drizzle it with fresh lime juice. Sprinkle chopped basil on top and serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping or over couscous for a more filling meal.

Nutrients (per serving)

Estimated values per serving (1/4 of the recipe)

• Calories: 180 kcal

• Protein: 20g

• Fat: 10g

  • Saturated Fat: 1g

• Carbohydrates: 4g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sugar: 2g

• Cholesterol: 30mg

• Sodium: 390mg

• Potassium: 280mg

• Vitamin A: 8% of Daily Value

• Vitamin C: 20% of Daily Value

• Calcium: 2% of Daily Value

• Iron: 6% of Daily Value

This recipe is a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish perfect for seafood lovers, bringing vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your dinner table in just a few minutes!

The Key Ingredients: Squid, Fresh Herbs, and Zesty Lime

Squid: Tender and Sweet

Squid, or calamari, is the star ingredient in this dish. When prepared correctly, it becomes tender with a slightly sweet flavor that serves as the perfect base for the other ingredients. In this recipe, the squid is quickly sautéed, allowing it to retain its delicate texture while achieving a beautiful golden sear. Cleaning and drying the squid thoroughly is essential for ensuring that it cooks properly, avoiding a steamed texture.

Olive Oil: Rich and Flavorful

Extra virgin olive oil is used to sauté the squid, providing a rich, fruity base that complements the other ingredients. Olive oil is a staple in Mediterranean cooking, adding depth and richness to the dish while helping to cook the squid without drying it out.

Chile: Heat and Freshness

A thinly sliced jalapeño or serrano chile brings just the right amount of heat to the dish, and you can adjust the amount of heat by removing or leaving the seeds in. The spicy kick from the chile contrasts beautifully with the cooling freshness of the lime and the aromatic basil, creating a flavorful balance.

Lime: Bright and Tangy

Lime juice adds a burst of citrus brightness that cuts through the richness of the olive oil and the squid. The acidity of lime balances the heat from the chile and enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a refreshing finish to the dish.

Basil: Fresh and Herbaceous

Fresh basil adds an herbaceous note that brightens the dish and complements the other flavors. When chopped and sprinkled over the finished calamari, it brings a fresh, aromatic touch that enhances the Mediterranean feel of the dish.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Garlicky Calamari with Basil, Chile, and Lime

Step 1: Prepare the Squid

Start by washing the squid under cold running water, then pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This is crucial because you want to sear the squid rather than steam it. Once the squid is dry, slice it into ½-inch rings and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Squid

Heat a 12-inch skillet over high heat for about 5 minutes until it becomes very hot. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Season half of the squid with a pinch of kosher salt and add it to the skillet along with half of the sliced chile. Let the squid cook undisturbed for 1 minute to allow it to brown. Then, flip the squid and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring in half of the chopped garlic during the final 20 seconds of cooking. Once done, transfer the cooked squid to a plate.

Step 3: Repeat Cooking

Repeat the process with the remaining olive oil, squid, chile, and garlic. Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can cause the squid to release moisture and steam instead of searing.

Step 4: Finish the Dish

Once all the squid is cooked, drizzle it with fresh lime juice for a tangy kick. Sprinkle the chopped basil over the top to add a fresh, herbaceous note. Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping or over couscous for a heartier meal.

Serving Suggestions

Garlicky Calamari with Basil, Chile, and Lime is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty loaf of bread to soak up the flavorful juices from the calamari. You can also use pita or focaccia for a Mediterranean touch.

• Couscous: For a more filling meal, serve the calamari over couscous. The light, fluffy texture of couscous pairs perfectly with the savory squid and tangy lime sauce.

• Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with arugula, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the calamari.

Why Garlicky Calamari with Basil, Chile, and Lime is Perfect for Any Occasion

Garlicky Calamari with Basil, Chile, and Lime is an ideal dish for a quick weeknight dinner, but it’s also elegant enough to serve for special occasions or gatherings. The Mediterranean flavors of garlic, basil, lime, and chile offer a vibrant and fresh profile, while the tender squid adds richness and depth to the dish.

This meal is also incredibly versatile, as it can be served as an appetizer or as a main course. Whether you enjoy it with crusty bread for a light meal or over couscous for a heartier option, this dish delivers bold flavors in a short amount of time.

Conclusion: A Quick and Flavorful Mediterranean Delight

Garlicky Calamari with Basil, Chile, and Lime is a quick, flavorful, and healthy dish that brings the best of Mediterranean cooking to your table. With tender squid, aromatic garlic, zesty lime, and a touch of heat from the chile, this dish is sure to impress. Its simplicity and bold flavors make it an ideal choice for a satisfying meal any day of the week. Serve it with crusty bread or couscous for a complete and delicious meal.