Dive into the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with our irresistible Sautéed Squid with Fried Eggplant! This dish combines tender, succulent squid with perfectly sautéed eggplant, creating a symphony of taste and texture that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean. Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. Trust us, once you try this delightful combination, it will become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Are you ready to impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering dish? Let's get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500g squid, cleaned and sliced
- 1 medium eggplant, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Clean the squid thoroughly under cold running water. Slice them into rings if they are not already cut. Set aside.
- Next, take the medium eggplant and dice it into small cubes. If desired, you can sprinkle the diced eggplant with salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture and bitterness. Rinse and pat dry with a paper towel.
- In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced eggplant. Sauté the eggplant for about 8-10 minutes or until it becomes golden brown and tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the eggplant is cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Now, add the cleaned and sliced squid to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the squid is opaque and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- After the squid is cooked, gently fold in the sautéed eggplant until well combined. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat everything through.
- Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the sautéed squid and eggplant mixture to a serving platter.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy your Mediterranean-inspired sautéed squid with fried eggplant!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Squid: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh squid. Look for firm, translucent flesh with a mild scent of the sea. If using frozen squid, ensure it's fully thawed before cooking.
- Salt the Eggplant: To reduce bitterness and moisture, sprinkle the diced eggplant with salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Rinse and pat dry to achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior when sautéed.
- Watch the Heat: When cooking the squid, be careful not to overcook it, as it can become rubbery. Just 2-3 minutes in the skillet is all it takes for the squid to be perfectly tender.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a wonderful aroma and flavor. Avoid pre-minced garlic, as it can lose its potency and freshness.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the fresh parsley garnish! It adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that elevates the dish.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot off the stove. Serve it immediately for the best taste and texture.
- Pair with a Side: Consider serving this dish with a side of crusty bread or a light Mediterranean salad to complete your meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 252kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 200mg