If you’re wondering how to cook squid, you’ve come to the right place! I’ve put together this list of Squid Recipes for you to cook in your own kitchen.
To many, calamari is simply a fried appetizer found in many restaurants. But there is so much more to it! When I first started experimenting with squid, I was amazed at how versatile it is, and I bet you will be too.
Now, you may be wondering: Is squid and calamari the same thing? Some claim that “calamari”, which is Italian for “squid”, is simply the culinary name of dishes containing squid. Others insist that calamari is a more tender and premium variety.
To me, it’s all good! Call it what you wish, as you cook your way through all of these great squid recipes… or calamari recipes!
The Best Squid Recipes:
1. Spicy Squid Stir Fry (Ojingeo Bokkeum)
Let’s start this squid list with a flavor bomb!! Also known as Ojinego Bokkeum, this spicy Korean squid dish is one of my favorites, and I bet it’ll become one of yours.
Some of the sauces may require a quick trip to the local Asian grocery store, but the result is well worth it!
Get the Recipe: Squid Stir Fry
2. Fried Calamari
Fried calamari… Sounds so inviting! As well as being the most popular way to cook squid, it’s also one of the most popular restaurant appetizers. I know it’s the first thing I look for on menus!
This recipe is my go-to when I want to to cook it perfectly, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Get the Recipe @ dinneratthezoo
3. Calamari with Garlic-Lime Sauce
Give your calamari a Mediterranean makeover with this light and simple recipe. The calamari rings are cooked in a skillet with a tasty garlic lime sauce and plenty of olive oil. It’s so good and so easy, and I have cooked it many times in my own kitchen.
Get the Recipe @ themediterraneandish
4. Thai Basil Squid
Here’s a quick and easy squid recipe that I absolutely love. This easy stir fry is enhanced by Thai basil, red chili paste and other flavor enhancers. It’s great on it’s own, but I usually serve it with a pile of white rice to round out the meal.
5. Italian Calamarata Pasta
This super quick and super tasty calamarata pasta is a weeknight dream for seafood and Italian food lovers alike. I highly recommend it!
Get the Recipe @ theheirloompantry
6. Grilled Stuffed Squid
Here’s a great stuffed squid recipe from the Phillipines, called inihaw na pusit. It’s surprisingly easy, but makes for an impressive platter to serve to guests. I usually prep it ahead of time, then it just takes a quick 15 minutes to cook.
Get the Recipe @ panlasangpinoy
7. Paella
Paella is a classic Spanish rice preparation. Many find it intimidating, but it’s surprisingly easy. I have tried many recipes, but this one is my absolute favorite.
8. Salt and Pepper Squid
Salt and Pepper Squid is a Cantonese variation on fried calamari. It has the same crunchy outside and tender inside, with the flavorful additions of ginger and garlic. Give this one a try when you want a tasty new twist on your favorite appetizer.
Get the Recipe @ thewoksoflife
9. Squid Tacos
Taco Time! I love tacos, and these calamari tacos are no exception! The calamari rings are joined by orange, cabbage, charred corn and a homemade coriander dressing. It’s YUM!
Get the Recipe @ anotherfoodblogger
10. Adobong Pusit
Adobong Pusit is a popular Filipino dish that’s bursting with flavors from soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, onions and tomatoes. It’s an easy and delicious dish that goes great over a pile of steamed rice.
Get the Recipe @ panlasangpinoy
11. Greek Stuffed Calamari
These Greek stuffed calamari are one of my favorite squid recipes. The calamari are filled with a mixture of rice, veggies and plenty of fresh herbs. It’s a great combination of flavors and makes for a great special occasion or company dish.
12. Indian Squid Curry
This Indian squid curry, or Gulai Sotong, is a wonderful coconut milk based curry with a deep flavor profile. You know me, I love my curries!
13. Spanish Style Squid Steaks with Garlic Sauce
Here’s a light, yet vibrant Spanish squid recipe. Squid tubes are quickly seared, then topped with a blend of olive oil, garlic, hot peppers and parsley. It’s my husband’s favorite way to eat squid.
14. Cioppino
Here’s a hearty and tasty stew for you… cioppino! Loads of seafood are simmered in a perfectly seasoned tomato and wine based broth. A San Francisco classic.
Get the Recipe @ theforkedspoon
15. Stir Fried Squid with Black Bean Sauce
I’m finishing up with this richly flavorful stir fried squid with black bean sauce. As with most stir fry dishes, it’s a super quick meal you can have on the table in no time. Plus, it tastes great!
Get the Recipe @ karenskitchenstories
So there you go, fifteen great ways to cook squid. I sure hope you enjoy all of them as much as I do!
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Welcome to GypsyPlate! I'm Alpana, former wordwide tour manager and professional caterer, now full time blogger. I love exploring cuisines from around the world, and my recipes have been featured on sites such as MSN, Parade, Brit + Co, CNET and AOL. You can explore my entire collection of sortable recipes in my Recipe Index or learn more about me here.
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