Word is that grilled calamari is a true delicacy with its tender texture and delightful flavor. So I decided to try it for myself and I will put it to the test in this journey. I will cook whole calamari, freshly caught and bought from the seafood market, and grill it in wooden skewers. I have tried calamari before, but never grilled calamari. Si I am not sure what to expect, however I do believe I will enjoy it. So join me in this awesome culinary experience!
Directions:
- Prepare the Calamari: I rinsed the whole calamari under cold water and patted it dry with paper towels.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, I combined olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Marinate the Calamari: I placed the cleaned calamari in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. I poured the marinade over the calamari, ensuring it coats all surfaces. Then I cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the Grill: I the preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C). If using charcoal, ensure the coals are evenly distributed.
- Skewer the Calamari: I removed the calamari from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. I then threaded the whole calamari onto the soaked wooden skewers, securing them firmly.
- Grill the Calamari: I then placed the skewered calamari on the preheated grill. I grilled them for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until the calamari turned opaque and developed grill marks. Avoid overcooking to prevent toughness. Also I cutted the edges of the calamari for better cooking.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once grilled to perfection, I removed the calamari skewers from the grill. I served the grilled whole calamari hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor. I also had some soy sauce to dip the grilled calamari in.
Grilling whole calamari on wooden skewers transforms this seafood favorite into a culinary masterpiece that is both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. With a simple yet flavorful marinade and careful grilling technique, you can enjoy tender and succulent grilled calamari. I truly enjoyed the experience. It is a perfect side dish or snack for any meal. I would definitely recommend it. So fire up the grill and try this sensational dish!
Tips and tricks:
- Preparation is Key: Soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the calamari. This prevents them from burning while grilling.
- Trimming for Perfection: While the Calamari cook on the grill, carefully trim the edges for even cooking. Removing excess parts ensures a more uniform and appealing presentation.
- Mindful Grilling: Calamari cooks quickly, so avoid overcooking to maintain its tender texture. Aim for a golden-brown color on the outside while keeping the inside moist and tender. Typically, 2-3 minutes per side on a hot grill should suffice.
- Enhancing Flavor: Serve your grilled calamari with a side of soy sauce for dipping. The salty umami flavor of soy sauce complements the natural sweetness of the calamari, enhancing its taste without overpowering it.