Mediterranean Grilled Calamari Salad
Instructions
- 1
Clean the calamari thoroughly, removing any remaining innards. Pat dry with paper towels. Score the tubes in a crosshatch pattern and cut into rings about 1cm wide. Leave tentacles whole.
- 2
In a bowl, combine 30ml olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add calamari and marinate for 15 minutes.
- 3
Meanwhile, prepare the salad base. Wash and dry the mixed greens, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion.
- 4
Make the dressing by whisking together remaining 60ml olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and half the parsley.
- 5
Preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat. Grill the calamari for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly charred and just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook.
- 6
In a large bowl, toss the greens, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives with half the dressing.
- 7
Arrange the salad on plates, top with warm grilled calamari, crumbled feta cheese, and remaining parsley.
- 8
Drizzle with remaining dressing and serve immediately while the calamari is still warm.
Chef's Note
"This stunning salad brings the flavors of a Mediterranean seaside taverna to your table. Don't be intimidated by grilling calamari—just keep it quick and hot for perfectly tender results every time."