Keto Garlic Squid Recipe

This Keto Garlic Squid is a quick, flavorful, and low-carb seafood dish that’s perfect for a healthy dinner or appetizer. Tender squid is stir-fried with garlic, butter, and spices, creating a rich and savory dish that pairs well with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a simple side salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – High in protein with virtually no carbs.
  • Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes!
  • Garlic Butter Goodness – A simple but flavorful seasoning.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep – Great for lunch, dinner, or a light appetizer.
  • One-Pan Recipe – Minimal cleanup and effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Fresh or frozen squid (cleaned and sliced into rings)
  • Olive oil or butter
  • Garlic (minced)
  • Lemon juice
  • Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
  • Paprika (for a smoky touch)
  • Salt & black pepper
  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Crushed almonds or pine nuts for texture
  • Parmesan cheese for a rich umami flavor
  • Chopped green onions for extra freshness
  • Keto-friendly chili sauce for heat

Directions

Prepare the Squid:

  1. Clean & Slice Squid – If using whole squid, clean and slice into rings. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
  2. Season – Toss the squid with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.

Cook the Squid:

  1. Heat the Pan – In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat.
  2. Sauté Garlic – Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Cook Squid – Add squid rings and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until opaque and tender (avoid overcooking).

Finish & Serve:

  1. Add Lemon Juice – Stir in fresh lemon juice for brightness.
  2. Garnish – Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 2-3
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Chili Garlic Squid – Add extra red pepper flakes or keto-friendly sriracha.
  • Mediterranean Style – Add olives, feta cheese, and cherry tomatoes.
  • Creamy Garlic Squid – Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan for a rich sauce.
  • Thai-Inspired – Use coconut oil and add a splash of fish sauce and lime.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as squid can become rubbery when reheated.
  • Reheating: Lightly warm in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes to prevent overcooking.

FAQs

How do I keep squid from becoming rubbery?

Cook it quickly over high heat (2-3 minutes) or low and slow (over 30 minutes).

Can I use frozen squid?

Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

What can I serve with keto garlic squid?

Cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.

Can I air fry this recipe?

Yes! Toss the squid with olive oil and seasonings, then air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.

What’s the best oil for cooking squid?

Olive oil, butter, or avocado oil work well for a keto-friendly option.

How do I add extra crunch?

Top with crushed pork rinds or toasted almonds for texture.

Can I marinate the squid before cooking?

Yes! Marinate in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for 30 minutes for extra flavor.

Is this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Just use olive oil instead of butter.

Can I use this recipe for calamari steaks?

Yes! Just slice the steaks into strips and adjust cooking time as needed.

Can I make this dish non-spicy?

Absolutely! Simply omit the red pepper flakes.

Conclusion

This Keto Garlic Squid is a quick, flavorful, and low-carb dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers. With just a handful of ingredients, you get tender, garlicky squid in under 15 minutes! Serve it as a main dish or appetizer and enjoy a delicious, keto-friendly meal. Try it today!

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Keto Garlic Squid Recipe

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This Keto Garlic Squid is an easy 10-minute dish featuring succulent squid rings tossed in garlic butter with a hint of spice. It’s a perfect low-carb meal that pairs well with a side salad or cauliflower rice!

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish, Appetizer
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean, Keto

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound squid rings and tentacles, cleaned
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Squid

  1. Pat dry the squid with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. Slice into rings if using whole squid tubes.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Squid

  1. Add squid rings and tentacles to the pan.
  2. Sprinkle with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the squid turns opaque and lightly golden.

Step 4: Finish & Serve

 

  1. Remove from heat and drizzle with lemon juice.
  2. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately!

Notes

  • Avoid overcooking squid, as it can turn rubbery—cook for just 1-2 minutes.
  • For extra richness, add a splash of white wine before adding the squid.
  • Pairs well with: zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or a fresh arugula salad.

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