Grilled Herb & Lemon Squid Skewers
These Grilled Herb & Lemon Squid Skewers are a low-carb, high-protein delight, featuring tender squid marinated in a vibrant mix of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon, then quickly grilled to smoky perfection. Perfect for a light meal or a summer barbecue, they offer a burst of fresh, savory flavor in every bite.
For 4 servings
**Prepare Squid**: If not already cleaned, thoroughly clean the squid bodies and tentacles under cold running water. Pat them completely dry with paper towels. Cut the squid bodies into 1-inch (2.5 cm) rings and leave the tentacles whole.
**Make Marinade**: In a medium bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, dried oregano, finely chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
**Marinate Squid**: Add the prepared squid to the bowl with the marinade. Toss gently to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, but no more than 30 minutes. (If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling).
**Preheat Grill**: Preheat an outdoor grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat (around 400-450°F / 200-230°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
**Thread Skewers**: Thread the marinated squid pieces onto the soaked wooden or metal skewers, alternating between rings and tentacles. Don't overcrowd the skewers; leave a little space between pieces for even cooking.
**Grill Skewers**: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, turning once, until the squid is opaque, lightly charred, and just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as squid can become rubbery quickly.
**Serve**: Remove the skewers from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon juice from the wedges generously over the grilled squid before serving immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Don't Overcook**: Squid cooks very quickly. Overcooking is the most common mistake, leading to a rubbery texture. Grill just until opaque and slightly curled.
- 2**Pat Dry for Best Sear**: Ensure the squid is thoroughly patted dry before marinating. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents steaming on the grill.
- 3**Soak Wooden Skewers**: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent them from burning.
- 4**Marinade Time**: While a quick marinade is fine, avoid marinating squid for too long (over 30 minutes) with acidic ingredients like lemon juice, as it can start to "cook" the squid and make it tough.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a subtle heat, or a finely chopped fresh chili for a bolder spice.
Herb SwapHerb Swap
Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill, mint, or chives in the marinade for a different aromatic profile.
Mediterranean PlatterMediterranean Platter
Serve the skewers alongside a fresh Greek salad, a dollop of tzatziki, and warm pita bread for a complete meal.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Protein
Squid is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Rich in Minerals
It provides important minerals like selenium, copper, iron, and phosphorus, which play roles in antioxidant defense, energy production, and bone health.
Low in Calories & Fat
As a lean seafood, squid is naturally low in calories and fat, making it a great option for weight management and heart-healthy diets.
Frequently asked questions
Squid is cooked when it turns opaque white and curls slightly. It should be tender with a slight chew, not rubbery. This usually takes only 2-3 minutes per side on a hot grill.
