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Charred Squid with Garlic & Lemon

Tender squid steaks seared until edges char, dressed with hot garlic oil and fresh lemon. Restaurant-simple Italian seafood that looks way more impressive than it is.

Total time
20 min
Servings
2
Calories
385
Protein
42g
Charred Squid with Garlic & Lemon
elegantsimpleitaliansquidtendercrispyweeknightdate-night

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Pat squid dry with paper towels. Score the bodies lightly in a crosshatch pattern, then cut into 3-inch steaks.

  2. Step 2

    Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high until it shimmers, about 60 seconds.

  3. Step 3

    Season squid generously with salt and black pepper. Working in batches, sear 60 seconds per side without moving — edges should char and curl.

  4. Step 4

    Transfer cooked squid to a platter. Pour remaining oil into the skillet, add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, cook until fragrant, about 45 seconds.

  5. Step 5

    Pour hot garlic oil over the squid. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over top and scatter parsley and lemon zest across the plate.

  6. Step 6

    Serve immediately with crusty bread to soak up the oil.

Tools you’ll need

  • 12-inch cast-iron skillet
  • paper towels
  • chef's knife
  • cutting board
  • platter
  • microplane or zester

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