Zesty Keto Garlic Squid

This Zesty Keto Garlic Squid recipe is a quick, mouthwatering, and low-carb seafood dish that makes for a perfect light dinner or appetizer. Tender squid rings are stir-fried with aromatic garlic, butter, and flavorful spices, creating a rich, savory dish that pairs beautifully with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a fresh side salad. The ideal option for anyone following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, this dish is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – Packed with protein and virtually no carbs, making it a perfect fit for your keto meal plan.
• Quick & Easy – Whip this up in just 15 minutes!
• Garlic Butter Goodness – A simple yet irresistibly flavorful seasoning that makes this dish shine.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Great for lunch, dinner, or as a light appetizer that can be prepped ahead of time.
• One-Pan Wonder – Minimal cleanup needed, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh or frozen squid (cleaned and sliced into rings)
• Olive oil or butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Lemon juice
• Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• Paprika (for a smoky touch)
• Salt & black pepper
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Crushed almonds or pine nuts for added crunch and texture
• Parmesan cheese for a rich, umami flavor
• Chopped green onions for extra freshness
• Keto-friendly chili sauce for a spicy kick

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Directions

Prepare the Squid:

1. Clean & Slice Squid – If you’re using whole squid, start by cleaning it thoroughly and then slice it into rings. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will ensure the squid cooks properly without releasing too much liquid.
2. Season – Toss the squid rings with a bit of salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat).

Cook the Squid:

1. Heat the Pan – In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Let the pan heat up for a couple of minutes.
2. Sauté Garlic – Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté it for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Cook Squid – Add the seasoned squid rings to the skillet. Stir-fry the squid for about 2-3 minutes until it turns opaque and tender. Make sure not to overcook the squid as it can become rubbery.

Finish & Serve:

1. Add Lemon Juice – Stir in a bit of fresh lemon juice to give the dish a bright, refreshing flavor. The acidity balances the richness of the garlic butter beautifully.
2. Garnish – Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing:

• Servings: 2-3
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Chili Garlic Squid – Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of keto-friendly sriracha for an extra spicy kick.
• Mediterranean Style – Incorporate olives, feta cheese, and cherry tomatoes for a Greek-inspired twist.
• Creamy Garlic Squid – Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan for a rich, decadent sauce.
• Thai-Inspired – Use coconut oil and add a splash of fish sauce and lime for a delicious tropical flair.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as squid can become rubbery when reheated.
• Reheating: Lightly warm the squid in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring gently to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

1. How do I keep squid from becoming rubbery?
   • To avoid rubbery squid, you can either cook it quickly over high heat for 2-3 minutes or cook it slowly for 30 minutes. The key is not to overcook it!
2. Can I use frozen squid?
   • Absolutely! Just ensure you thaw the squid completely and pat it dry before cooking to remove any excess moisture.
3. What can I serve with keto garlic squid?
   • This dish pairs wonderfully with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a low-carb meal.
4. Can I air fry this recipe?
   • Yes! Simply toss the squid with olive oil and seasonings, and then air fry it at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes for a crispy texture.
5. What’s the best oil for cooking squid?
   • Olive oil, butter, or avocado oil work perfectly for cooking this dish. All these options are keto-friendly and will complement the flavors nicely.
6. How do I add extra crunch?
   • For added texture, top the dish with crushed pork rinds or toasted almonds for a satisfying crunch.
7. Can I marinate the squid before cooking?
   • Yes! Marinate the squid in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for 30 minutes to infuse it with even more flavor before cooking.
8. Is this dish dairy-free?
   • Yes! If you use olive oil instead of butter, this dish is completely dairy-free. It’s an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions.
9. Can I use this recipe for calamari steaks?
   • Yes! You can slice calamari steaks into strips and adjust the cooking time accordingly to create a delicious variation of this dish.
10. Can I make this dish non-spicy?

• Absolutely! Simply omit the red pepper flakes, and you’ll still have a tasty, mild version of the dish.

Conclusion

This Zesty Keto Garlic Squid recipe offers an easy, flavorful, and low-carb option for seafood lovers. With just a handful of ingredients, you can enjoy tender squid cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce in under 15 minutes. Whether served as a main dish or appetizer, this recipe is versatile, quick, and perfect for anyone following a keto or low-carb lifestyle. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious meal today!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 18g
• Sodium: 300mg

Enjoy this Keto Garlic Squid as a delicious and satisfying addition to your low-carb meal rotation. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor!