Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Keto Garlic Squid recipe is a delightful, low-carb seafood dish that is bursting with flavor. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only 15 minutes from start to finish. With its rich taste from garlic, lemon, and Parmesan, combined with the freshness of arugula and olives, this dish is the perfect healthy dinner option. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or simply looking for a tasty seafood meal, this recipe will surely become a new favorite!
Ingredients
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10oz/300g squid
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1/2 lemon, juice
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2 Tbsp olive oil
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2 garlic cloves
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1/3 cup olives, pitted
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1/2 cup arugula
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2 Tbsp tomato paste
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1 Tbsp dry basil
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Crushed pepper
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Parmesan cheese
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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In a pan, cook the squid with some water for 3-4 minutes, covered with a lid. Ensure the squid is thoroughly cooked. Remove any excess water and add the lemon juice and olive oil.
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Stir in the tomato paste and add 2 tablespoons of water if necessary to adjust consistency. Press the garlic, then add the dry basil and crushed pepper. Mix everything together and turn the heat off.
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Stir in the arugula and olives, then top with Parmesan cheese (or any other cheese you prefer).
Servings and Timing
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Prep time: 5 minutes
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Cook time: 10 minutes
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Total time: 15 minutes
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Servings: 2
Variations
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Add more veggies: You can add more greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
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Use other seafood: If you prefer shrimp or scallops, swap them for the squid for a different flavor.
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Vegan option: Skip the Parmesan cheese and use a dairy-free alternative, or top with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a pan over low heat or microwave for 30 seconds at a time until heated through. Avoid overheating to prevent the squid from becoming tough.
FAQs
1. How do I know when the squid is cooked?
The squid should turn opaque and firm. It usually takes about 3-4 minutes of cooking time on medium heat.
2. Can I use frozen squid?
Yes, you can use frozen squid. Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly and drain any excess water before cooking.
3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a couple of days.
4. Can I use a different type of oil?
You can use other oils like avocado oil or coconut oil if you prefer, but olive oil works best for flavor.
5. What can I serve this with?
This keto garlic squid pairs well with a side salad, cauliflower rice, or roasted vegetables.
6. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, fresh garlic is perfect for this recipe. Simply press or mince the garlic cloves before adding them to the pan.
7. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Keto Garlic Squid recipe is naturally gluten-free.
8. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more crushed pepper or include some red pepper flakes to increase the heat.
9. Can I make this recipe without olives?
Yes, you can skip the olives or substitute them with capers for a similar briny flavor.
10. How can I make this recipe more filling?
You can serve it over zucchini noodles or add some avocado on top for extra richness.
Conclusion
This Keto Garlic Squid recipe is a quick, flavorful, and healthy option for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle. Packed with nutrients and a burst of Mediterranean flavors, it’s an easy dish to prepare for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Whether you’re a seafood lover or new to keto, this recipe is sure to impress!
Print
Keto Garlic Squid Recipe
A quick and flavorful Keto Garlic Squid dish made with tender squid, garlic, lemon, olives, and arugula, topped with Parmesan. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a healthy, low-carb Mediterranean-inspired meal perfect for weeknights.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients
10 oz (300 g) squid
1/2 lemon, juice
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
1/3 cup olives, pitted
1/2 cup arugula
2 Tbsp tomato paste
1 Tbsp dry basil
Crushed pepper, to taste
Parmesan cheese, for topping
Instructions
- In a pan, cook the squid with a little water for 3–4 minutes, covered with a lid, until opaque and firm.
- Drain excess water, then add lemon juice and olive oil.
- Stir in tomato paste, adding 2 tablespoons of water if needed for consistency.
- Press or mince garlic and add it to the pan along with dry basil and crushed pepper. Mix well and turn off the heat.
- Stir in arugula and olives.
- Top with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
Add extra greens like spinach or kale for more nutrients.
Swap squid with shrimp or scallops for variation.
Make it vegan by skipping Parmesan or using a dairy-free alternative.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the squid.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 220mg