Delicious Garlic Squid Dinner

This delectable keto garlic squid recipe transforms humble squid into a mouthwatering low-carb dinner that's bursting with Mediterranean flavors. The combination of garlic, lemon, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that feels indulgent while keeping carb counts impressively low.

I discovered this recipe during my first month of keto eating when I was desperately missing pasta dishes. The rich garlic sauce and tender squid immediately became my go to comfort food without the carb guilt.

Ingredients

• Fresh squid: Preferably cleaned and cut into rings for quicker cooking and even tenderness
• Lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the squid naturally
• Olive oil: Brings Mediterranean flavor and healthy fats essential for keto eating
• Garlic cloves: Fresh is absolutely crucial for the signature flavor profile
• Pitted olives: Provide briny depth and additional healthy fats
• Arugula: Adds a peppery freshness and beautiful color contrast
• Tomato paste: Delivers concentrated flavor without excessive carbs
• Dry basil: Infuses the dish with classic Italian aroma
• Crushed pepper flakes: Provide customizable heat level
• Parmesan cheese: Adds umami richness and perfect finishing texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Precook the Squid:

Place squid in a pan with a small amount of water and cover with lid. Simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until squid turns opaque and slightly firm. This gentle cooking method ensures tender not rubbery squid. Drain any excess water completely before proceeding to keep the flavors concentrated.

Create the Sauce Base:

Add fresh lemon juice and olive oil to the cooked squid. Stir in tomato paste to create a light sauce consistency adding a tablespoon or two of water if needed. The acidity from lemon juice balances the richness of olive oil while tomato paste adds depth without adding significant carbs.

Add Aromatics and Finalize:

Press garlic directly into the pan for maximum flavor. Sprinkle in dry basil and crushed pepper flakes according to your heat preference. Turn off heat immediately to prevent garlic from burning. Fold in fresh arugula until it just begins to wilt and add olives for briny contrast.

Finishing Touch:

Top generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese which melts slightly from the residual heat. The cheese adds a final layer of savory complexity that brings the whole dish together. Feel free to experiment with other keto friendly cheeses like pecorino or asiago for variation.

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This dish reminds me of summers spent on the Mediterranean coast where my grandmother would prepare fresh squid caught that same morning. She always insisted that the secret to tender squid was never to overcook it and to always finish with the best olive oil you can afford.

Storing Your Keto Garlic Squid

This dish keeps remarkably well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually develop and intensify overnight making leftovers sometimes even more delicious than the freshly made dish. I recommend reheating gently in a pan rather than microwave to maintain the tender texture of the squid. Add a fresh splash of olive oil when reheating to revitalize the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions For Dietary Needs

If squid is unavailable shrimp makes an excellent substitute with similar cooking time and texture. For those avoiding dairy simply omit the Parmesan or replace with nutritional yeast for a cheese like flavor. The tomato paste can be replaced with red pepper paste for a different flavor profile while maintaining low carb count. For an extra burst of freshness add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with cauliflower rice to soak up the flavorful sauce without adding carbs. For a complete meal serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon. If you have room in your carb allowance a small portion of shirataki noodles tossed with olive oil makes this feel like a pasta dish. For special occasions serve in shallow bowls with a drizzle of high quality olive oil and a side of keto friendly garlic bread made with almond flour.

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Enjoy bringing the Mediterranean coast to your kitchen table with this quick, flavorful, and keto-friendly dish!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I know when squid is properly cooked?

Squid cooks very quickly and is done when it turns opaque white and slightly firm to the touch, usually in just 3-4 minutes. Overcooking will make it rubbery, so watch carefully. It should have a tender bite with slight resistance.

→ Can I use frozen squid for this dish?

Yes, frozen squid works well. Thaw it completely before cooking, and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve better texture and prevents diluting the flavors during cooking.

→ What sides pair well with garlic squid?

For a keto-friendly meal, serve with cauliflower rice, roasted zucchini, or a simple Greek salad. If not following keto, crusty bread for dipping in the sauce makes a wonderful addition.

→ Can I substitute the squid with other seafood?

Absolutely. Shrimp makes an excellent substitute with similar cooking time. Scallops also work well, though they require more careful timing. For a mixed seafood experience, try a combination of squid, shrimp and mussels.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the squid. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as seafood texture can change upon reheating.

→ Is this dish spicy?

The recipe includes crushed pepper, which provides a mild heat. You can adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of crushed pepper to suit your preference.