How To Grill Whole Squid

Grilling whole squid may seem intimidating at first, but with the right technique, it can be a delicious and impressive dish to serve at your next barbecue. The key is to properly clean and prepare the squid, and then grill it to tender perfection. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to grill whole squid to perfection.

Cleaning and Preparing the Squid

Before you start grilling, it’s essential to properly clean and prepare the squid. Follow these steps to get the squid ready for the grill:

Start by rinsing the squid under cold water to remove any residual sand or debris.
Next, gently pull the head away from the body to remove the internal organs. Discard the head and organs, or save them for another recipe if you like.
Peel off the thin, purplish skin from the squid’s body. This can be easily done by using your fingers to grip the edge and peeling it off in a smooth motion.
Once the skin is removed, rinse the squid again to ensure it’s clean inside and out.

Marinating the Squid

Marinating the squid before grilling will infuse it with flavor and help keep it tender. Here’s a simple marinade recipe to try:

Combine olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Place the cleaned squid in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, turning to coat evenly.
Cover the dish and let the squid marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.

Grilling the Squid

Now that the squid is cleaned and marinated, it’s time to fire up the grill. Follow these steps to grill the squid to perfection:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Remove the squid from the marinade and shake off any excess. Reserve the marinade for basting during grilling.
Place the squid on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the flesh turns opaque and the edges are lightly charred.
While grilling, baste the squid with the reserved marinade to keep it moist and add extra flavor.
Once the squid is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving the Grilled Squid

Grilled whole squid is best served immediately, while it’s still hot off the grill. You can simply drizzle it with a bit of olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, or get creative with your favorite sauces and toppings. Some popular options include:

Serving the grilled squid with a side of aioli or marinara sauce for dipping.
Slicing the grilled squid into rings and tossing it with a salad for a refreshing seafood dish.
Pairing the grilled squid with grilled vegetables and a squeeze of citrus for a light and flavorful meal.

Conclusion

Grilling whole squid is a fantastic way to showcase this delicious and often underrated seafood. With the right preparation and a hot grill, you can enjoy tender and flavorful grilled squid that will impress your guests and elevate your outdoor cooking game. Give it a try at your next barbecue and savor the unique taste of grilled whole squid!

Now that you have the know-how, it's time to fire up the grill and impress your friends and family with your newfound squid-grilling skills!

Share your tips and techniques for grilling whole squid in the Cooking Techniques forum and let’s discuss how to perfect this delicious dish!

FAQ:

What is the best way to clean whole squid before grilling?

To clean whole squid before grilling, start by removing the head, tentacles, and internal organs. Peel off the skin and rinse the squid under cold water to remove any remaining debris. Make sure to pat the squid dry with paper towels before grilling to ensure a crispy texture.

How should whole squid be seasoned before grilling?

Whole squid can be seasoned with a variety of ingredients before grilling, such as olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. You can also add herbs and spices like paprika, oregano, or chili flakes for extra flavor. Marinating the squid for 30 minutes to an hour before grilling can also enhance its taste.

What is the ideal grilling temperature for whole squid?

Whole squid should be grilled over medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C). This high heat will help to quickly cook the squid and achieve a delicious charred exterior while keeping the inside tender.

How long does it take to grill whole squid?

Grilling whole squid usually takes about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the size of the squid. It’s important not to overcook the squid to avoid making it tough and rubbery. Keep a close eye on it and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Should whole squid be scored before grilling?

Yes, scoring the squid before grilling can help it cook more evenly and prevent it from curling up. Use a sharp knife to make shallow diagonal cuts in a crisscross pattern on one side of the squid, being careful not to cut all the way through.

What are some serving suggestions for grilled whole squid?

Grilled whole squid can be served with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. It can also be served with a side of aioli, tzatziki, or a simple tomato and cucumber salad for a refreshing meal.

Was this page helpful?

Yes No