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Keto Garlic Squid Recipe

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  • Author: Kim Cooks Easy
  • 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

Units Scale
  • 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