Portuguese Grilled Baby Squid with Garlic Butter

Introduction

Portuguese Grilled Baby Squid with Garlic Butter is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the natural sweetness of fresh squid. Using the Arteflame grill, we achieve a perfect sear on the center grill grate at 1,000°F before finishing the squid on the flat griddle cooktop. This ensures a tender texture with a light char, beautifully complemented by rich garlic butter. Get ready to impress with this fantastic seafood dish!

Ingredients

• 1 lb baby squid, cleaned
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil over three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
4. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 2: Prepare the butter mixture

1. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Set aside for basting.

Step 3: Grill the squid

1. Pat the baby squid dry using a paper towel.
2. Place the squid briefly on the center grill grate for 30 seconds per side to get a quick sear.
3. Transfer to the hot flat cooktop area and brush with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Turn occasionally and continue cooking for 3-4 minutes until the squid becomes opaque and tender.

Step 4: Serve

1. Transfer the grilled squid to a serving plate.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
3. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips

• Do not overcook the squid as it can turn rubbery. Cook just until opaque and tender.
• Always grill squid dry to get the best sear, then baste with butter for flavor.
• Remove from the grill when internal temperature is 15°F below the desired doneness.

Variations

1. Spicy Portuguese Squid: Add 1 tsp of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a kick.
2. Herbed Grilled Squid: Mix in 1 tbsp of chopped fresh oregano and thyme to the garlic butter.
3. Citrus-Marinated Squid: Marinate the squid in a blend of orange juice, lemon zest, and olive oil for 30 minutes before grilling.
4. Garlic Chili Squid: Add 1 tbsp of chili paste to the butter mixture for a bold, spicy flavor.
5. Portuguese Piri Piri Squid: Use a Piri Piri sauce instead of garlic butter for a fiery Portuguese taste.

Conclusion

This Portuguese Grilled Baby Squid with Garlic Butter is an exceptional seafood dish that turns out perfect on the Arteflame grill. The combination of high heat searing and buttery, garlicky flavors makes it a must-try recipe. Enjoy your meal with your favorite pairing and impress your guests with this flavorful and tender squid!

Best Pairings

• Portuguese Vinho Verde wine
• Grilled vegetables (peppers, zucchini, eggplant)
• Fresh baguette with herb butter
• Portuguese-style rice with saffron
• Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette