π¦π₯ Grilled Squid with Spicy Herb Dipping Sauce

β¨ Description
Tender grilled squid with a smoky char, served with a bold, spicy herb dipping sauce. Fresh, zesty, slightly spicy, and packed with umami β a perfect appetizer or light seafood dish.
π§Ύ Ingredients (Serves 2β3)
For the squid:
- 400 g squid (cleaned, cut into rings or tubes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper
For the dipping sauce:
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1β2 teaspoons chili flakes or fresh chili (adjust to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or chili oil
For garnish:
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
π₯ Instructions

1. Prepare the squid
- Pat squid dry with paper towels.
- Toss with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill
- Heat grill or pan to high heat.
- Grill squid for 2β3 minutes per side until lightly charred.
π Do not overcook β squid becomes rubbery.
3. Make dipping sauce
- In a bowl, combine fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, chili, garlic, cilantro, and oil.
- Stir until sugar dissolves.
4. Serve
- Arrange grilled squid on a plate.
- Serve with dipping sauce on the side.
- Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges.
π‘ Pro Tips
- High heat + short cooking time = tender squid.
- Dry squid well before grilling for better char.
- Balance sauce: salty (fish sauce) + sour (lime) + sweet + spicy.
- Add sesame seeds for extra aroma.
π’ Estimated Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 220β300 kcal
- Protein: 25β30 g
- Fat: 8β12 g
- Carbohydrates: 5β8 g
β° Best time to serve
- Appetizer
- BBQ meals
- Light dinner
β‘ Energy-Saving Tip
Use a grill pan instead of outdoor grill for quicker heating and less energy use.
π₯ Who will enjoy this dish
- Seafood lovers
- Fans of spicy and tangy flavors
- Anyone who enjoys Asian-style street food