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Sauteed Calamari with Garlic

Sauteed Calamari with Garlic: A Quick Mediterranean Delight

Savory sauteed calamari infused with garlic offering a quick Mediterranean experience.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Calamari
  • 1 lb Fresh Calamari Opt for tubes sliced into ½ inch rings and keep tentacles whole for texture.
  • to taste Sea Salt Enhances the flavor profile.
  • to taste Cracked Black Pepper Freshly cracked is ideal for the best flavor.
For the Cooking Base
  • 2 tbsp Avocado Oil Perfect for high-heat sautéing; can substitute with vegetable or sunflower oil.
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter Adds a rich texture; use olive oil for a lighter alternative.
For Flavoring
  • 4 cloves Garlic Slice to prevent burning.
  • 1 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Adjust amount or omit for milder flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice Fresh lemon is key for zesty taste.
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Italian Parsley Swap with fresh basil for a different twist.
  • 2 wedges Lemon Wedges Essential for serving.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Rinse and dry the calamari. Pat dry with paper towels to eliminate excess moisture.
  2. Season the calamari with sea salt and cracked black pepper in a mixing bowl.
  3. Heat avocado oil in a skillet over high heat until shimmering.
  4. Add seasoned calamari to the skillet in a single layer; cook for about 90 seconds without stirring.
  5. Flip the calamari and cook for an additional 60 seconds until opaque and tender.
  6. Reduce heat to medium, push calamari to the side, and add butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes to the center. Sauté for 30 seconds.
  7. Pour fresh lemon juice over calamari and toss gently to combine flavors.
  8. Sprinkle parsley over the calamari and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 28gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking to prevent steaming. Use fresh ingredients for best results.

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