Description
Garlicky Calamari with Basil is a quick and flavorful dish made with calamari, sautéed in garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil. Perfect for a light appetizer or main course with a refreshing lemon kick.
Ingredients
1 pound calamari, cleaned and cut into rings
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges, for garnish
Instructions
- Clean the calamari and slice it into rings if not pre-cut.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the calamari rings to the skillet and stir to coat them in the garlic and oil.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the calamari turns opaque and curls slightly. Avoid overcooking to prevent toughness.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
- Fold in chopped fresh basil.
- Transfer the calamari to a serving platter and garnish with lemon wedges.
Notes
For extra spice, increase the red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño.
Swap basil for parsley or thyme for a different herbal flavor.
Grill the calamari for a smokier taste instead of sautéing it.
For added texture, toss in some cherry tomatoes or spinach while cooking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the dish
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
