Spanish-Style Calamari Steaks with Spicy Garlic Sauce

Introduction

Craving something bold, Mediterranean, and bursting with flavor? These Spanish-Style Calamari Steaks with Spicy Garlic Sauce are a true seafood delight — tender, perfectly seared calamari steaks drenched in a rich, garlicky, chili-infused sauce that captures the essence of Spanish coastal cuisine. 🇪🇸 Traditionally served in tapas bars along the Mediterranean coast, this dish combines simple ingredients — olive oil, garlic, paprika, and chili — into a powerful, savory experience. Perfect for dinner parties or a light gourmet meal at home.

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Ingredients List

🦑 For the Calamari Steaks:

• 4 calamari steaks (fresh or thawed if frozen)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Juice of ½ lemon

🌶️ For the Spicy Garlic Sauce:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 5 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp lemon juice or white wine
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• Salt to taste

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Timing

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Quick, fiery, and delicious — ready faster than most seafood dishes!

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Calamari Steaks

Pat dry each steak thoroughly with paper towels. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Let marinate for 5–10 minutes while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Spicy Garlic Sauce

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn). Add chili flakes and smoked paprika, then deglaze with lemon juice or white wine. Stir for another minute, then remove from heat and add chopped parsley. Set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Calamari

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sear calamari steaks for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden and slightly charred at the edges. They should stay tender, not rubbery.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Pour the warm spicy garlic sauce over the cooked steaks. Garnish with extra parsley, lemon wedges, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

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Nutritional Information (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	280 kcal
Protein	32 g
Fat	15 g
Carbohydrates	2 g
Vitamin B12	120% DV
Iron	15% DV

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Healthier Alternatives

• Low-Fat: Use less oil and grill without added fat.
• Milder Version: Reduce chili flakes or replace with sweet paprika.
• Keto-Friendly: Already low-carb — pair with grilled vegetables for a perfect keto meal.
• Extra Fiber: Serve with a side of brown rice or quinoa.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Spanish rice, roasted potatoes, or garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
• Serve alongside grilled vegetables, green beans, or a Mediterranean salad.
• For a tapas spread, serve small pieces with patatas bravas or pan con tomate.
• Add a drizzle of aioli or lemon-garlic yogurt sauce for a creamy contrast.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking calamari: It becomes rubbery — sear briefly on high heat.
2. Burning garlic: Cook just until fragrant; burnt garlic adds bitterness.
3. Skipping lemon or wine: They balance the richness of the sauce.
4. Using low heat: Calamari cooks best when quickly seared at high temperature.

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Storing Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: Not recommended; calamari loses tenderness when refrozen.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil — never microwave!

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Conclusion

These Spanish-Style Calamari Steaks with Spicy Garlic Sauce bring the vibrant flavors of Spain straight to your kitchen. 🦑🔥 Tender, flavorful, and ready in minutes, this dish is perfect for seafood lovers who want something elegant yet easy. Try it once, and it’ll become your go-to Mediterranean meal for impressing guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality dinner at home.

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FAQs

1. Can I use squid rings instead of steaks?
Yes! The sauce works beautifully with squid rings or baby calamari — just reduce cooking time.

2. Can I grill them instead of pan-searing?
Absolutely. Brush with oil and grill for 1–2 minutes per side for a smoky flavor.

3. What wine pairs best?
A crisp Spanish white wine like Albariño or Verdejo complements the garlic and spice perfectly.

4. How do I make the sauce creamier?
Add 1 tablespoon of butter at the end for a rich, silky finish.