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    The 15 BEST Squid Recipes (How to Cook Calamari)

    If you’re wondering how to cook squid, you’ve come to the right place! We’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!

    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 us, 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.

    The Best Squid Recipes:

    1. Spicy Squid Stir Fry (Ojingeo Bokkeum)

    Lets start this squid list with a flavor bomb!! Also known as Ojinego Deopbap, these spicy Korean squid rice bowls are seriously tasty.

    Some of the sauces ay require a quick trip to the local Asian grocery store, but the result is well worth it!

    Get the Recipe


    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.

    This recipe will teach you how 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 great as an appetizer or light main.

    Get the Recipe @ themediterraneandish


    4. Thai Basil Squid

    Here’s a quick and easy squid recipe that doesn’t skimp on the flavor. This easy stir fry is enhanced by Thai basil, red chili paste and other flavor enhancers.

    Served over a pile of rice, it’s a super tasty Asian calamari recipe.

    Get the Recipe @ rasamalaysia


    5. Italian Calamarata Pasta

    This super quick and super tasty calamarata pasta is a weeknight dream for seafood and Italian food lovers alike.

    Give this one a try the next time that pasta craving hits!

    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.

    Get the Recipe @ panlasangpinoy


    7. Paella

    Paella is a classic Spanish rice preparation. Many find it intimidating, but it’s surprisingly easy.

    Loaded with seafood along with calamari rings, paella is a striking, company worthy, dish.

    Get the Recipe @ cafedelites


    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 corander dressing. 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 our 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.

    Get the Recipe @ miakouppa


    12. Indian Squid Curry

    This Indian squid curry, or Gulai Sotong, is a wonderful coconut milk based curry with a deep flavor profile.

    Serve this along with plenty of fresh steamed rice.

    Get the Recipe @ rasamalaysia


    13. Spanish Style Squid Steaks with Garlic Sauce

    Here’s a light, yet vibrant Spanish squid recipe that we love…

    Squid tubes are quickly seared, then topped with a blend of olive oil, garlic, hot peppers and parsley. So simple, yet so good.

    Get the Recipe @ spainonafork


    14. Cioppino

    Here’s a hearty and tasty stew for you! 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

    We’re 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. The only question now is, which to try first?

    Pin or bookmark this collection of great lobster recipes so you always know where to find it. And be sure to subscribe to GypsyPlate, we’re always cooking up new easy recipes for you!

    Check Out These Other Recipe Collections!
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    Tilapia Recipes
    Tuna Steak Recipes
    Crab Recipes
    Lobster Recipes
    Seafood Recipes

    Featured image for calamari recipes post.

    How to Cook Squid (15 Calamari Recipe)

    This collection of Squid Recipes will show you how surprisingly versatile calamari is.

    Did you make this recipe?

    Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

    Picture of Alpana, blogger and recipe developer at GypsyPlate

    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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