This dish is fast and elegant, and features tender squid, parsley-garlic sauce, fresh lemon juice, and olive oil. The squid is quickly cooked in a hot pan, with no extra oil needed, and coated with parsley sauce. It can be a main course or even as part of a seafood spread.
What Is Squid in Parsley Sauce?
Squid in parsley sauce focuses on fresh ingredients to obtain its signature taste. Squid has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries, thanks to its affordability, availability, and ability to transform quickly when cooked correctly. Squid cooks best in one of two ways, which is very fast or very slow. That awkward middle ground is where chewy regret lives.
Pro Tips for the Best Squid in Parsley Sauce
- Fresh squid gives the cleanest flavor and the best texture. If using frozen squid, thaw it fully and pat it dry before cooking so it sears properly instead of steaming.
- Too much squid at once lowers the heat and creates a watery situation. Cook in batches if needed.
- Since the parsley sauce is simple, the flavor of the olive oil really matters. Use extra virgin olive oil you actually enjoy tasting.
- Dried parsley will not save the day here. Fresh parsley gives the sauce its signature brightness and taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Add Chili to the Parsley Sauce?
Yes, if you enjoy a little heat, just add a small pinch of chili flakes or fresh chili. Just keep it balanced so the garlic, parsley, and lemon remain the main focus rather than turning the whole dish into a spice competition.
What Can I Serve with It?
Crusty bread is a top choice because it handles the extra parsley sauce like a professional. Rice or roasted potatoes also work well. A crisp green salad or grilled vegetables can round things out if you’re serving it as a main dish.
Can I Make the Parsley Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, and it actually helps with timing. You can prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it chilled until needed. Just give it a quick stir before serving, since the oil and lemon may separate slightly while resting.
Is Lemon Juice Necessary?
Without it, the parsley sauce can taste too heavy or flat. Lemon helps lift the garlic and olive oil, making the whole dish feel fresher and lighter.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the squid and parsley sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 days. However, keep the sauce separate if possible so the squid maintains its texture.
Ingredients
How to Make Squid in Parsley Sauce
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Add the garlic cloves, fresh parsley, salt, extra virgin olive oil, and lemon juice to a food processor, and blend.
Add the garlic cloves, fresh parsley, salt, extra virgin olive oil, and lemon juice to a food processor, and blend.
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Place a pan over medium-high heat and let it get hot before adding the squid. Arrange the squid in the hot pan and cook on both sides for a few minutes without oil.
Place a pan over medium-high heat and let it get hot before adding the squid. Arrange the squid in the hot pan and cook on both sides for a few minutes without oil.
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Spoon a couple of tablespoons of parsley sauce onto your serving dish as the base. Place the cooked squid neatly on top and add another spoonful of parsley sauce over it.
Spoon a couple of tablespoons of parsley sauce onto your serving dish as the base. Place the cooked squid neatly on top and add another spoonful of parsley sauce over it.
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