It was a sunny Saturday afternoon when I first discovered the joy of grilling seafood. The sound of sizzling garlic and the fragrance of fresh marjoram wafting from the grill captivated me, sparking my curiosity. I decided to step out of my comfort zone, leaving behind bland takeout meals, and dive into something truly special—Garlicky Grilled Squid Stuffed with Feta Cheese.
As I prepped my ingredients, the firm texture of the calamari filled me with anticipation, while the creamy feta promised a delightful contrast. Each step unfolded like a culinary adventure, transforming simple ingredients into an exotic dish. With a glass of chilled Zinfandel at the ready, I knew this would be an experience to share.
Perfect for a summer gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe offers both ease and impressive flair. If you’re looking for that crowd-pleasing dish to elevate your next dinner, keep reading—your taste buds are in for a treat!
Why choose Garlicky grilled squid stuffed with feta cheese?
Unforgettable Flavor: The bold combination of garlic and marjoram infuses the squid with a savory kick that’s simply irresistible.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create an elegant dish that looks and tastes gourmet, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Impress your guests with this unique appetizer that’s sure to spark conversations and satisfy a variety of palates.
Perfectly Grilled: Just 10 minutes on the grill yields tender calamari with a lovely char, making it a quick option for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it alongside a fresh salad and a chilled wine for a full meal, or enjoy it as a vibrant starter at your next barbeque.
Elevate your dining experience with this delectable recipe that you will want to make time and time again!
Garlicky Grilled Squid Stuffed with Feta Cheese Ingredients
For the Squid
- 8 large whole calamari – Select fresh calamari for the best texture and flavor in your dish.
- 8 finger length sticks sheep’s milk feta cheese – This creamy feta brings a lovely richness that pairs beautifully with the squid.
For the Marinade
- 2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil – Use high-quality oil for a robust flavor throughout the stuffed squid.
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled and mashed – Fresh garlic enhances the overall taste and aroma of your dish.
- 8 fresh marjoram leaves, chopped – Marjoram adds an aromatic, herbaceous note that complements the seafood perfectly.
- Sea salt, to taste – A touch of salt elevates all the flavors without overpowering them.
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste – Freshly cracked pepper adds a nice kick to each bite.
For Serving
- Lemon slices – The bright acidity of lemon balances the richness of the feta and enhances the dish’s flavors.
Dive into preparing this Garlicky grilled squid stuffed with feta cheese that’s not just a meal, but an experience!
How to Make Garlicky Grilled Squid Stuffed with Feta
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Wash the calamari carefully, turning them inside out to ensure they’re clean and tender. Handle them gently to avoid tearing through the sides, as you want them intact for stuffing.
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Arrange the squid in a shallow pan side by side, leaving space in between each one for the feta. This layout allows the feta to meld with the squid as they marinate.
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Prepare the marinade by whisking together the extra virgin olive oil, mashed garlic, chopped marjoram, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This aromatic mixture will saturate the squid and infuse it with rich flavors.
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Marinate the squid by pouring the marinade over them in the pan. Cover and place them in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, turning once to coat evenly. This step is crucial for enhancing the taste.
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Stuff the chilled squid with the feta cheese just before grilling. If desired, you can pin the squid legs on a skewer for grilling. Brush the grill lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
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Preheat your grill to a low setting. Gently place the stuffed squid on the grill and cook them for about 6 minutes, then carefully turn them over and grill for another 1-2 minutes, until they are opaque.
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Grill the skewered legs for roughly 2 minutes on each side, or until the tips are slightly charred and cooked through, adding a smoky depth to the dish.
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Plate the grilled squid on a serving platter, garnished with fresh lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
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Serve alongside a fresh mixed salad of lettuce and radicchio, paired with a chilled glass of Zinfandel to complete your delightful experience.
Optional: For added freshness, garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Garlicky Grilled Squid Stuffed with Feta
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Choose Fresh Squid: The quality of calamari truly impacts flavor; fresh squid provides a tender, sweet taste that frozen options may lack.
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Marinate Long Enough: Allowing the squid to marinate for a full 2-3 hours deepens the flavors, so don’t rush this step—it’s vital for a remarkable dish.
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Careful Grill Technique: Turn the squid carefully to prevent tearing. Using two spatulas can help keep them intact while ensuring even cooking.
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Watch the Timing: Overcooking can lead to rubbery calamari; aim for 6-8 minutes on the grill for perfectly tender squid.
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Serve with Zest: Don’t skip the lemon! Its acidity brightens the dish and balances the richness of the feta, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
Elevate your cooking game with these tips for making exceptional Garlicky Grilled Squid Stuffed with Feta Cheese!
Garlicky Grilled Squid Stuffed with Feta Cheese Variations
Feel free to play with the flavors and textures of this scrumptious dish—the possibilities are endless!
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a delightful heat that elevates the entire dish.
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Herbaceous Twist: Substitute fresh dill or basil for marjoram to explore a different herbal layer that beautifully complements the squid.
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Cheesy Alternative: Try using goat cheese in place of feta for a tangy surprise that pairs wonderfully with the garlic.
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Zesty Upgrade: Incorporate lemon zest into the marinade for a bright, citrusy burst that enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Vegetarian Style: Swap the squid for large Portobello mushrooms and grill them as a hearty, meaty alternative that still boasts all the delicious flavors.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pistachios or walnuts to the feta cheese before stuffing; this adds an unexpected crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender squid.
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Mediterranean Flair: Toss in sun-dried tomatoes with the feta for an extra umami flavor that makes the stuffing truly irresistible.
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Smoky Variation: Use smoked feta instead of fresh for a deeper, richer flavor that creates a delightful twist on the classic dish.
Let your creativity shine as you customize this recipe to suit your mood or occasion!
What to Serve with Garlicky Grilled Squid Stuffed with Feta Cheese?
Creating a memorable meal is all about the delightful balance of flavors, textures, and aromas. Pair your grilled squid to elevate the entire dining experience!
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Crispy Fresh Salad: A fresh mixed salad with crisp lettuce and tangy radicchio cuts through the richness, adding a refreshing crunch that complements the squid beautifully.
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Lemon Herb Couscous: This light and fluffy dish is infused with fresh herbs and citrus, mirroring the lemon served with the squid while providing a satisfying base.
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Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, lightly charred brings vibrant colors and earthy sweetness that harmonize with the smoky squid.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of toasted bread enhances the flavor profile, allowing you to savor every bite and soak up the delicious juices.
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Saffron Rice: The aromatic richness of saffron in rice adds an exotic touch to your plate, creating a luxurious pairing with the savory seafood.
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Chilled Zinfandel: A light-bodied, fruity white wine offers a wonderful contrast to the grilled squid, effectively complementing the dish’s flavors and ensuring a sophisticated experience.
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Tzatziki Sauce: The coolness of tzatziki adds a delightful creamy element, with its tangy yogurt and cucumber flavors providing a refreshing contrast to the warm squid.
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Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on crispy toasted bread lends a modern and rich flavor that pairs well with the delicate taste of calamari.
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Pavlova: Finish your meal with a light pavlova topped with fresh fruits, bringing sweetness and a touch of whimsy that rounds out the savory dishes perfectly.
These complementary dishes create an inviting atmosphere, ensuring that your table is not just set, but truly celebrated!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlicky Grilled Squid Stuffed with Feta Cheese are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the squid up to 24 hours in advance, which allows the flavors to infuse beautifully. Just prepare the marinade, coat the cleaned calamari, and refrigerate them in an airtight container. To maintain quality, make sure to turn the squid once during the marinating period. When you’re ready to impress your guests or whip up a weeknight dinner, simply stuff the squid with feta and grill according to the directions. This way, you’ll enjoy delightful restaurant-quality seafood with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Garlicky Grilled Squid Stuffed with Feta
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Room Temperature: If leftover, keep the grilled squid at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to maintain freshness and avoid food safety issues.
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Fridge: Store any uneaten Garlicky Grilled Squid Stuffed with Feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: You can freeze the squid for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: To enjoy your leftover squid, reheat gently on a low grill or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, ensuring it warms through without becoming tough.
Garlicky Grilled Squid Stuffed with Feta Cheese Recipe FAQs
What type of calamari should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose fresh whole calamari rather than frozen. Fresh squid has a tender, sweet taste that is essential for your Garlicky Grilled Squid Stuffed with Feta Cheese.
How should I store leftover grilled squid?
Very! If you have leftovers, make sure to place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for up to 3 days. Remember, any grilled seafood shouldn’t be left out for more than 2 hours to keep it safe and tasty.
Can I freeze grilled squid? If so, how?
Of course! To freeze your grilled squid, start by wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn. This way, they’ll keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.
What if my calamari turns out rubbery?
Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! To avoid rubbery calamari, remember to cook them on a low grill for no more than 6-8 minutes total. Also, make sure you preheat your grill properly and flip the squid carefully to cook evenly without overcooking.
Are there any dietary concerns I should be aware of?
Yes! If you’re serving this dish at a gathering, be mindful that squid is a common allergen for some. Also, be cautious if cooking for pets; while cooked squid isn’t toxic to dogs, it’s best to avoid giving them any seasoned or grilled versions since garlic can be harmful to them.
Do I need to marinate the squid for the full 2-3 hours?
Absolutely! Marinating your squid for the full 2-3 hours allows the flavors of the garlic and marjoram to penetrate deeply into the squid, making every bite of your Garlicky Grilled Squid Stuffed with Feta Cheese a burst of delightful flavor. Feel free to marinate overnight for even more intense flavor!
Savor Summer with Garlicky Grilled Squid Stuffed with Feta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash the calamari carefully, turning them inside out to ensure they're clean and tender.
- Arrange the squid in a shallow pan side by side, leaving space in between each one for the feta.
- Prepare the marinade by whisking together the extra virgin olive oil, mashed garlic, chopped marjoram, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Marinate the squid by pouring the marinade over them in the pan. Cover and place them in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, turning once to coat evenly.
- Stuff the chilled squid with the feta cheese just before grilling.
- Preheat your grill to a low setting. Gently place the stuffed squid on the grill and cook them for about 6 minutes, then turn and grill for another 1-2 minutes.
- Grill the skewered legs for roughly 2 minutes on each side, or until the tips are slightly charred and cooked through.
- Plate the grilled squid on a serving platter, garnished with fresh lemon wedges.
- Serve alongside a fresh mixed salad of lettuce and radicchio, paired with a chilled glass of Zinfandel.