Squid Ink Seafood Pasta

Servings

4 servings

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

Total Time

35 minutes

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz (340 g) squid ink spaghetti

• 8 oz (225 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 8 oz (225 g) squid or baby octopus, cleaned and sliced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• ½ cup dry white wine

• 2 tablespoons butter

• Juice of 1 lemon

• ¼ cup seafood stock

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Garnish

• Fresh basil leaves

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Crushed red pepper flakes

• Extra parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook squid ink spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.

3. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.

4. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Seafood

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add shrimp and cook for 2 minutes per side.

3. Remove and set aside.

4. Add squid or octopus and cook for 2–3 minutes until tender.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

1. Add garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet.

2. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Pour in white wine and allow it to reduce by half.

4. Add seafood stock and lemon juice.

5. Stir in butter until melted.

Step 4: Combine

1. Return seafood to the skillet.

2. Add cooked squid ink pasta.

3. Toss everything together.

4. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.

5. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Serve

1. Divide among serving bowls.

2. Top with Parmesan cheese.

3. Sprinkle with parsley and red pepper flakes.

4. Garnish with fresh basil.

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 510 kcal

• Protein: 30 g

• Fat: 15 g

• Carbohydrates: 58 g

• Fiber: 4 g

Chef's Tips

• Do not overcook squid or octopus; they become tough quickly.

• Reserve pasta water to help create a silky sauce.

• Fresh seafood provides the best flavor and texture.

• For a richer version, add a splash of heavy cream.

• Finish with high-quality olive oil just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic bread

• Caesar salad

• Roasted vegetables

• Chilled Sauvignon Blanc

• Sparkling water with lemon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Squid ink pasta delivers a dramatic appearance and subtle briny flavor that perfectly complements shrimp, squid, and garlic. The combination of tender seafood, bright citrus, and rich black pasta creates a restaurant-quality dish that is both elegant and surprisingly simple to prepare at home.