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Mediterranean Garlic & Lemon Calamari Skillet

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A quick and flavorful Mediterranean-style calamari skillet, featuring tender squid rings sautéed with garlic, lemon, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Perfect for an elegant yet simple seafood meal in under 20 minutes.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 2 to 3 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) calamari rings, cleaned
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (or chopped ripe tomatoes)
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Zest of ½ lemon
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the calamari rings dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture and ensure tenderness during cooking.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, sauté until fragrant and lightly golden.
  3. Add cherry tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir in smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until tomatoes soften and release juices.
  4. Add calamari rings to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes only, just until opaque and tender.
  5. Pour in lemon juice and add lemon zest. Remove the skillet from heat.
  6. Garnish with chopped parsley and drizzle with extra olive oil if desired. Serve immediately with bread, rice, couscous, or salad.

Notes

  • Do not overcook calamari; it becomes rubbery if cooked too long.
  • Use fresh or thawed calamari, thoroughly patted dry.
  • Optional: deglaze with white wine for added depth of flavor.
  • Serve with low-carb sides for a keto-friendly option.
  • Leftovers should be consumed within a day for best texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/mediterranean-garlic-lemon-calamari-skillet/