Elevate your seafood experience with Spicy Grilled Calamari, perfect for serving 4. This vibrant dish features calamari marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, lemon juice, fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, and garlic. Grilled to a perfect char, the calamari is tender and infused with spicy, smoky flavors. Finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley, this dish is both refreshing and flavorful. Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Rosé, or enjoy with sparkling water and lemon for a refreshing, non-alcoholic option. Enjoy a delightful meal that brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your table.
Quantity:
- Serves 4
Preparation Items:
- 1 lb calamari, cleaned and bodies cut into rings, tentacles left whole
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust according to heat preference)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Preparation Method:
- Marinating Calamari: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Add the calamari to the bowl and toss until well coated. Let marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Preheating the Grill: Preheat your grill to high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grilling: Remove calamari from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place calamari on the grill in a single layer. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the calamari is opaque and slightly charred.
- Serving: Remove the calamari from the grill and transfer to a serving plate. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Preparation Time:
- Total time: 1 hour
- Active time: 10 minutes
- Passive time (marinating & preparing): 50 minutes
Drink Pairing:
- A crisp and mineral-rich white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Rosé complements the spicy and smoky flavors of the grilled calamari. The acidity of these wines balances the heat and enhances the seafood's natural flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of fresh lemon offers a refreshing and palate-cleansing complement to the dish.