Grilled Calamari

Grilled Calamari is a mild fish that taste amazing when cooked on the grill. The simple seasoning gives the calamari amazing flavor and makes this a simple dinner or appetizer idea.

If you love making Grilled Seafood Recipe then you will love Grilled Shrimp Skewers, Mexican Mahi Mahi, and Grilled Tilapia in Foil.

Why This Recipe Works

We love trying new seafood recipes on the grill. This calamari was perfect for our family gathering because it cooked quickly and everyone enjoyed the flavor.

The calamari was easy to prep and the seasoning was light and refreshing which gave the calamari amazing flavor.

Ingredients

• Fresh Calamari – Cleaned and cut into rings
• Olive Oil – Avocado Oil is another great choice
• Cloves Garlic – Learn How to Mince Garlic
• Lemon – Zested and Juiced

Scroll to the bottom for the full recipe in the recipe card.

How to Make Grilled Calamari

Step 1 – In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and dried oregano.

Step 2 – Add the cleaned calamari to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 3 – Preheat the grill to high heat. Remove the calamari from the marinade and season with salt and pepper.

Step 4 – Grill the calamari for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it turns opaque and has light grill marks.

• Step 5 – Remove the calamari from the grill and transfer to a serving plate.
• Step 6 – Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Expert Tips

• Prepare Calamari Rings – If you’re starting with a whole squid, make sure to clean it thoroughly, removing the skin, innards, and beak. Cut the body into rings about ½ inch thick, and leave the tentacles whole.
• Marinating Calamari – Don’t marinate the calamari for more than 30 minutes, as the acid in the lemon juice can start to “cook” the squid, affecting its texture.
• Grilling Calamari – To prevent the calamari from falling through the grill grates, you can use a grill basket or thread the calamari onto bamboo skewers before grilling.
• Cooking Time – Calamari cooks very quickly. Overcooking will result in a rubbery texture, so keep a close eye on it and remove it from the heat as soon as it’s opaque.

Serving Suggestions

Calamari is a delicious seafood dishes that is perfect to feed a crowd. We love to serve with Grilled Garlic Crusty Bread with a side of Greek Salad.

You can even add a side of Grilled Broccoli in Foil, Grilled Asparagus, or Baked Potatoes on the Grill.