Keto Garlic Squid is a flavorful, low-carb seafood dish that’s quick and easy to prepare. With tender squid cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, this dish is perfect for a light meal or an impressive appetizer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – A great option for those following a ketogenic diet.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes.
- Flavor-Packed – Garlic, butter, and spices enhance the natural taste of the squid.
- Versatile – Serve as an appetizer, side dish, or main meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh squid, cleaned and sliced into rings
- Butter or ghee
- Olive oil
- Garlic, minced
- Lemon juice
- Paprika
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Squid – Rinse and pat dry the squid. Slice into rings if not pre-cut.
- Heat the Pan – In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
- Sauté Garlic – Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Cook the Squid – Add squid rings and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until opaque and tender.
- Season – Sprinkle with paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Finish with Lemon – Remove from heat and drizzle with fresh lemon juice.
- Serve – Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Extra Spicy – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
- Herb Infused – Try basil or thyme for added flavor.
- Creamy Version – Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for richness.
- Grilled Option – Marinate the squid and grill for a smoky twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating – Warm in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Freezing – Not recommended, as squid can become rubbery when thawed.
FAQs
How do I keep squid from becoming rubbery?
Cook it quickly over high heat or simmer it for a long time—anything in between can make it tough.
Can I use frozen squid?
Yes! Just thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a fresh salad.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use all olive oil instead of butter.
Do I need to marinate the squid?
No, but marinating in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for 15 minutes enhances flavor.
Can I bake the squid instead?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-10 minutes.
What’s the best way to clean squid?
Remove the head, beak, and cartilage, then rinse thoroughly.
Can I add other seafood?
Yes! Shrimp or scallops make a great addition.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use pre-cooked squid?
Yes, but only heat for a minute or two to avoid overcooking.
Conclusion
Keto Garlic Squid is a quick, easy, and flavorful seafood dish perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a main course or an appetizer, this garlicky, buttery squid is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a delicious low-carb meal!
Print
Keto Garlic Squid Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéed
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Keto-Friendly
Description
This Keto Garlic Squid is a garlicky, buttery, and slightly spicy seafood dish that’s perfect for a low-carb meal. It cooks in just 15 minutes and pairs well with cauliflower rice or a fresh salad!
Ingredients
- 1 pound squid, cleaned and cut into rings
- 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (for searing)
Instructions
- Prep the squid – Pat the squid dry with a paper towel. This helps it sear properly.
- Heat the oil – In a large pan over medium-high heat, heat 1 teaspoon olive oil until hot.
- Sear the squid – Add the squid rings and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Make the garlic butter sauce – Reduce heat to medium, add butter and garlic, and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add spices – Stir in red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Return squid to the pan – Toss the squid back into the garlic butter sauce and cook for 1 minute, stirring well.
- Finish & serve – Remove from heat, drizzle with lemon juice, and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve warm!
Notes
- Avoid overcooking – Squid can become rubbery if cooked too long. Keep it at 2-3 minutes total cooking time.
- Want extra spice? Add a dash of cayenne pepper or sriracha.
- Make it dairy-free – Swap butter for more olive oil.
- Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
Nutrition
- Calories: ~180
- Sugar: ~0g
- Sodium: ~450mg
- Fat: ~12g
- Saturated Fat: ~5g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~2g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Protein: ~18g
- Cholesterol: ~200mg
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