Description
Keto Garlic Squid is a fast, flavorful, and healthy seafood recipe packed with Mediterranean flair. Tender squid is sautéed with olive oil, garlic, and lemon for a low-carb, high-protein dinner that’s ready in under 20 minutes. Perfect for keto and paleo diets, it’s light, zesty, and incredibly satisfying for any weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) fresh or frozen squid, cleaned and cut into rings or tubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika or chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: grated Parmesan or smoked paprika for extra depth
Instructions
- Prepare the Squid: Thaw completely if frozen, then pat dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 20–30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sear the Squid: Add squid to the pan and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until squid turns opaque.
- Add Lemon: Stir in lemon juice and zest. Toss to coat evenly for bright, balanced flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with parsley, and drizzle with extra olive oil. Serve hot with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Don’t overcook: Squid cooks in just 2–3 minutes; longer makes it rubbery.
- Dry the squid well for a perfect sear.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor balance.
- Variations: Add chili flakes for spice, or butter for richness.
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 2 days; reheat gently in a skillet for 1–2 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Keto Recipes, Seafood
- Method: Sautéed
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
Keywords: Keto Garlic Squid, Garlic Lemon Squid, Mediterranean Keto Dinner, Low Carb Seafood Recipe, Quick Keto Meal, Healthy Squid Recipe, Garlic Butter Squid, Lyndy’s Kitchen, Keto Seafood Dish, High Protein Dinner