The moment my pan sizzles with garlic and butter, the kitchen transforms into a cozy haven, filled with mouthwatering anticipation. I still recall the first time I tried garlic butter squid at a seaside restaurant; the perfect melding of flavors made my taste buds dance. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this sensational dish that rivals any gourmet experience.
This garlic butter squid is not only quick to prepare but also brings a taste of the ocean right to your dinner table. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a satisfying weeknight meal, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—pair it with pasta, serve it over rice, or enjoy it as a standalone appetizer.
Join me as we dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe that showcases the irresistible pairing of tender squid and rich garlic butter, guaranteed to make you forget all about fast food. Are you ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s get started!
Why will you love garlic butter squid?
Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for all skill levels.
Flavor Explosion: The rich garlic butter sauce infuses the tender squid with savory, mouthwatering flavors that are hard to resist.
Quick Cooking: Ready in about 20 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.
Versatile Dish: Whether paired with pasta, rice, or served as an appetizer, this dish adapts to your dining needs effortlessly.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends with a dish that delivers gourmet taste without the fuss.
Elevate your dinner experience with this delightful garlic butter squid recipe that promises to be a favorite!
Garlic Butter Squid Ingredients
For the Squid
• 1 pound squid – cleaned and sliced tubes create tender bites that cook quickly.
• 1-2 tbsp neutral oil – like avocado or canola, helps in sautéing without overpowering flavors.
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder – adds a rich, savory depth to the dish.
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt – enhances the natural flavors of the squid.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper – provides a subtle kick to the seasoning.
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
• 4 tbsp butter – the star ingredient that makes everything irresistibly rich.
• 4-6 cloves garlic – minced for fresh, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with butter.
• 2 tbsp soy sauce – adds umami and a splash of saltiness to the sauce.
• 1 tbsp mirin – contributes a hint of sweetness to balance the bold flavors.
For Garnish
• Chopped parsley – brightens up the dish with color and a fresh touch.
Get ready to experience the delightful flavors of garlic butter squid with these easy-to-find ingredients!
How to Make Garlic Butter Squid
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Soak: In a large mixing bowl, fill it with cool water and about 1 tbsp kosher salt. Add the squid pieces, gently stirring with your hands. Strain the water out, discarding any sand or debris for clean, tender squid.
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Marinate: Add the squid rings and tentacles to another large mixing bowl. Mix in 1 tbsp garlic powder, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Use clean hands to ensure all ingredients are well combined and flavor the squid.
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Heat Oil: Preheat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add 1-2 tbsp neutral oil, waiting until it ripples. Carefully add the marinated squid to the pan, tossing or stirring immediately to prevent sticking.
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Cook Squid: Sauté until the squid is about 80-90% cooked through, which should take just a few minutes. Turn off the heat, and transfer the squid to a bowl, straining out any excess liquid for a less watery dish.
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Melt Butter: In the same large pan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, add 4-6 cloves minced garlic, allowing it to sweat until soft and fragrant—avoid browning for the best flavor.
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Make Sauce: To the garlic butter, stir in 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp mirin. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer; it will thicken slightly, creating a delicious sauce.
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Combine: Return the sautéed squid to the pan, tossing to coat it evenly in the rich sauce. Continue tossing until the sauce thickens further and the squid is fully cooked. Stir in a pinch of chopped parsley, saving some for garnish.
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Serve: Enjoy your garlic butter squid hot, garnished with the reserved parsley or herbs of your choice for a pop of color.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of lemon juice for a refreshing zing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Squid
Fridge: Store garlic butter squid in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to maintain tenderness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze garlic butter squid in a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop until just warmed through to avoid toughening the squid. Adding a splash of water can help keep it moist.
Avoid Room Temperature: Do not leave garlic butter squid at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Garlic Butter Squid Variations
Feel inspired to make this dish uniquely yours with these creative twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a fiery contrast that creates an exciting flavor profile. With the right heat, every bite can bring a new experience!
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Lemon Zest: Incorporate fresh lemon zest into the sauce for a burst of citrus freshness that pairs beautifully with seafood. The brightness will elevate the dish, transforming it into a refreshing delight.
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Coconut Cream: Swap butter for coconut cream for a dairy-free version that adds a hint of tropical sweetness to the sauce. This substitution introduces a creamy texture that complements the squid perfectly.
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Asian Flair: Use sesame oil instead of neutral oil and add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a nutty flavor. This toast of texture enhances the overall bite, providing a delightful crunch atop the tender squid.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro instead of parsley for a fragrant twist. These herbs will bring a different aroma and character that can change the mood of your dish.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in thinly sliced bell peppers or snap peas right at the end for a colorful and crunchy addition. This not only adds texture but also introduces some natural sweetness to balance out the savory elements.
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Garlic Lovers: Double the amount of minced garlic for a more robust flavor that garlic enthusiasts will adore. This aromatic boost enhances every bite, creating an unforgettable experience.
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Pasta Pairing: Serve over your favorite pasta tossed with olive oil and garlic for a complete meal. The squid combined with pasta drenched in garlic butter creates a comforting yet elegant dish that’s hard to resist.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Squid
Quality Squid: Choose fresh squid when possible; frozen works too. Just ensure it’s fully thawed and cleaned for the best texture and flavor.
Don’t Overcook: Squid cooks very quickly; avoid overcooking to keep it tender. Cook just until it turns opaque and slightly firm.
Butter Heat: Keep the butter on medium-low heat to prevent it from browning. This will ensure your garlic butter sauce remains rich and flavorful.
Serve Immediately: Garlic butter squid is best served hot for maximum flavor and texture. Reheating can make squid tough and chewy.
Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs like parsley not only enhance presentation but also add a burst of freshness to the dish, balancing the richness of the garlic butter squid.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Squid?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delectable dish with sides that enhance its rich flavors and textures.
- Zesty Lemon Rice: The bright acidity of lemon rice complements the buttery squid, adding a refreshing balance to your meal.
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy, golden loaf, perfect for dipping into the delicious garlic butter sauce. Each bite brings a satisfying crunch.
- Crisp Garden Salad: Fresh, crunchy vegetables dressed in a light vinaigrette provide a contrast to the richness of the squid, making the meal feel lighter.
- Aglio e Olio Pasta: The simplicity of this pasta with garlic and olive oil creates a seamless harmony alongside the squid, enhancing its savory notes.
- Roasted Asparagus: Tender, roasted asparagus with a sprinkle of sea salt adds an earthy element that compliments the ocean flavors of the squid.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness of the buttery sauce.
- Coconut Milk Soup: A light coconut broth with herbs can serve as a warmer, flavor-packed appetizer that aligns well with the squid’s profile.
- Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of seasonal veggies offer a smoky char that contrasts deliciously with the tender squid.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse can be a decadent finish when paired with the savory garlic butter squid.
Each pairing is designed to amplify your dining pleasure, creating a memorable meal that will have everyone coming back for more!
Make Ahead Options
These garlic butter squid are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to streamline dinner on busy weeknights! You can soak and marinate the squid up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring that it absorbs all those delicious flavors. Just combine the squid with garlic powder, soy sauce, salt, and pepper, then cover and refrigerate. The butter sauce can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead; simply make the garlic butter and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, sauté the marinated squid and toss it in the warmed butter sauce for a dish that tastes just as fresh and wonderful as the day you made it!
Garlic Butter Squid Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best squid for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting squid, look for fresh, glistening bodies without any discoloration or strong fishy odor. The flesh should be firm and free from dark spots or blemishes. If using frozen, ensure it is properly thawed before cooking, as this helps maintain its tender texture.
How should I store leftover garlic butter squid?
You can store garlic butter squid in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best results, reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve its tenderness and moisture.
Can I freeze garlic butter squid?
Yes, you can! Simply place the cooled garlic butter squid in a sealed freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
What can I do if my squid is tough after cooking?
If your squid turns out tough, it’s likely due to overcooking. For next time, aim to cook the squid just until it turns opaque and slightly firm—about 2-3 minutes is generally enough. If it does happen, try slicing it thinly against the grain before serving; this can make it easier to chew.
Is this garlic butter squid recipe suitable for those with shellfish allergies?
While this recipe only uses squid and not shellfish like shrimp or crab, caution is essential. If you or your guests have a shellfish allergy, it’s best to avoid squid altogether, as cross-contamination can occur. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially for sauces like soy sauce, which could contain allergens.
Savory Garlic Butter Squid Recipe You’ll Crave Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, fill it with cool water and about 1 tbsp kosher salt. Add the squid pieces, gently stirring with your hands. Strain the water out, discarding any sand or debris for clean, tender squid.
- Add the squid rings and tentacles to another large mixing bowl. Mix in 1 tbsp garlic powder, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Use clean hands to ensure all ingredients are well combined and flavor the squid.
- Preheat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add 1-2 tbsp neutral oil, waiting until it ripples. Carefully add the marinated squid to the pan, tossing or stirring immediately to prevent sticking.
- Sauté until the squid is about 80-90% cooked through, which should take just a few minutes. Turn off the heat, and transfer the squid to a bowl, straining out any excess liquid for a less watery dish.
- In the same large pan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, add 4-6 cloves minced garlic, allowing it to sweat until soft and fragrant—avoid browning for the best flavor.
- To the garlic butter, stir in 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp mirin. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer; it will thicken slightly, creating a delicious sauce.
- Return the sautéed squid to the pan, tossing to coat it evenly in the rich sauce. Continue tossing until the sauce thickens further and the squid is fully cooked. Stir in a pinch of chopped parsley, saving some for garnish.
- Enjoy your garlic butter squid hot, garnished with the reserved parsley or herbs of your choice for a pop of color.