Quick Simple Grilled Calamari Appetizer - Mad Hungry with Lucinda Scala Quinn

calamari

🥗Healthier: octopus

💰Cheaper: squid

Squid is more readily available and less expensive than calamari.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is a budget-friendly alternative with a neutral flavor.

paprika

🥗Healthier: smoked paprika

💰Cheaper: cayenne pepper

Cayenne provides heat and flavor at a lower cost.

lemon

🥗Healthier: lime

💰Cheaper: vinegar

Vinegar adds acidity without the cost of fresh citrus.

Eyeball the amount of olive oil needed for the marinade.

Slice 1 clove of garlic very thinly to ensure pieces are large enough to leave behind if desired.

Pull leaves off fresh oregano sprig and add to the bowl; if using dried oregano, use about 1 teaspoon instead.

Whisk together the olive oil, sliced garlic, lemon juice, and oregano to emulsify.

Taste the marinade to adjust flavors as needed.

Clean the calamari by asking the fish market to clean it for you.

Season the calamari with a little bit of salt.

Preheat a cast iron grill pan until hot.

Cook the calamari for about 1 minute per side until caramelized, turning the tentacles as well.

Remove calamari from the grill pan and thinly slice it.

Add the sliced calamari to the marinade and mix well to absorb flavors.

Finish with a good amount of black pepper in the dressing and stir together.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens