As I stood in my kitchen, the late afternoon sun streamed through the window, casting a warm glow on the ingredients spread out before me. It was one of those days where I craved something special—no bland takeout would do. Instead, a vibrant vision of squid stuffed with feta, parsley, and chorizo danced in my mind. I remembered how, just last week, I had shared this delightful dish with friends during a weekend gathering. Their faces lit up with every bite, savoring the perfect blend of flavors and textures.
This stuffed squid is not only a feast for the senses; it’s surprisingly easy to prepare and so full of personality that you might just find it becoming a household favorite. The rich feta mingles harmoniously with the spicy chorizo, while fresh herbs add a burst of brightness, transforming humble squid tubes into a culinary masterpiece. Perfect for an intimate dinner or impressive enough for guests, this dish breaks away from the ordinary. Let’s dive into how you can create this exquisite treat that promises to elevate your home-cooked meals!
Why is squid stuffed with feta, parsley and chorizo so special?
Deliciously Unique: This dish brings a twist to ordinary seafood with a Mediterranean flair that excites your taste buds.
Quick Cooking Time: With only 4 minutes on the grill, you can serve this impressive dish in no time.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of tangy feta, spicy chorizo, and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering filling you’ll crave.
Impress Your Guests: Perfect for gatherings, your friends will be raving about this delightful dish long after the meal.
Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients or add your own favorites for a personal touch! Check out my tips on how to make stuffed seafood dishes to explore more culinary possibilities.
Squid Stuffed with Feta, Parsley and Chorizo Ingredients
For the Filling
- Feta – crumbled for a tangy, creamy base that pairs beautifully with seafood.
- Chorizo sausage – finely chopped to add a delightful spice that lifts the entire dish.
- Tomato – diced to bring in freshness and a touch of sweetness to balance flavors.
- Lemon rind – finely grated from 1/2 lemon to add a zesty brightness to the stuffing.
- Fresh breadcrumbs – 1 cup (70g) used to create texture and bind the filling together.
- Parsley – chopped (1/3 cup) for a fresh, herby note that complements the other ingredients.
- Oregano – 1 tablespoon chopped for an aromatic layer that enhances the Mediterranean feel.
For the Squid
- Squid tubes – 6, cleaned to provide the perfect vessel for our delicious filling.
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon to brush on the squid, adding richness and helping it brown beautifully.
To Serve
- Lemon wedges – to serve alongside, offering an extra squeeze of freshness to finish the dish.
This delightful combination of flavors makes squid stuffed with feta, parsley, and chorizo a must-try for your next homemade feast! Enjoy crafting this well-loved recipe that’s bursting with personality!
How to Make Squid Stuffed with Feta, Parsley and Chorizo
-
Preheat your barbecue to medium heat. This ensures a crisp-tender finish that seals in all the lovely flavors of your stuffed squid.
-
Combine feta, chorizo, tomato, lemon rind, breadcrumbs, parsley, and oregano in a bowl. Season with pepper to taste, creating a robust filling that’s rich and exciting.
-
Spoon the filling generously into the cleaned squid tubes, leaving a little space at the top. Secure with toothpicks so your delicious mixture stays tucked inside during cooking.
-
Brush the outside of the stuffed squid with olive oil. This helps them brown beautifully and enhances the overall flavor as they grill.
-
Cook the squid on the barbecue for 2 minutes on each side. Look for a slight golden color and an inviting aroma that fills the air.
-
Drizzle with lemon juice before cooking for an additional 2 minutes. The squid will turn opaque and well-browned, ensuring a perfect texture and flavor.
-
Serve hot on a platter with lemon wedges alongside. This not only looks vibrant but adds a fresh, zesty finish to each tantalizing bite.
Optional: Sprinkle with extra parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These squid stuffed with feta, parsley, and chorizo are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling (combined feta, chorizo, tomato, lemon rind, breadcrumbs, parsley, and oregano) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. The squid tubes can also be cleaned and stored separately for added convenience. When you’re ready to serve, simply spoon the prepared filling into the squid tubes, secure with toothpicks, brush with olive oil, and grill for about 4 minutes. This way, you achieve restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and ensure the squid stays just as delicious and tender as if it were freshly made!
What to Serve with Squid Stuffed with Feta, Parsley and Chorizo?
Looking to elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that amplify the flavors of your seafood masterpiece?
- Zesty Arugula Salad: This salad’s peppery arugula and lemon vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the rich stuffing.
- Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous infused with fresh herbs complements the Mediterranean flavors of the squid, adding a satisfying texture.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from the stuffed squid, enriching every bite.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted bell peppers and zucchini adds beautiful color and a natural sweetness that enhances the dish’s overall appeal.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the seafood, cutting through the richness while highlighting the bright flavors.
- Lemon Sorbet: A light, refreshing sorbet provides a delightful palate cleanser to end the meal on a sweet and zesty note.
Feel free to mix and match these pairings to create a vibrant, memorable meal that showcases your squid stuffed with feta, parsley, and chorizo!
How to Store and Freeze Stuffed Squid
Fridge: Store any leftover squid stuffed with feta, parsley, and chorizo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the stuffed squid tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked squid out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Squid Stuffed with Feta Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe, customizing it to match your taste preferences or dietary needs!
-
Seafood Medley: Swap chorizo with diced shrimp or crab for a delightful ocean-inspired twist that adds additional flavor layers.
-
Herb-Loaded: Replace parsley and oregano with fresh basil and dill for a fragrant herb boost that offers a Mediterranean garden experience.
-
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the filling for an enticing heat that’s sure to wake up your palate!
-
Vegan Friendly: Use crumbled tofu in place of feta and omit chorizo for a plant-based version that still delivers delicious textures and flavors.
-
Cheesy Goodness: Instead of feta, try using mozzarella or a blend of different cheeses for a creamy filling that stretches beautifully when cooked.
-
Nutty Crunch: Add finely chopped nuts, such as pine nuts or walnuts, to the stuffing for a satisfying crunch that pairs wonderfully with the tender squid.
-
Zesty Twist: Mix in a splash of balsamic vinegar into the filling for a surprising tang that cuts through the richness and adds dimension.
-
Stuffing Twist: Incorporate cooked quinoa or rice into the mixture to make it heartier; it provides a delightful texture and makes for a more filling dish.
Expert Tips for Squid Stuffed with Feta, Parsley and Chorizo
-
Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh squid and herbs to enhance the flavor of your dish. Frozen seafood may lack the same taste and texture.
-
Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overfilling the squid tubes; leave a little space at the top. This prevents bursting while cooking, keeping your squid stuffed with feta, parsley and chorizo intact.
-
Preheat Properly: Make sure your barbecue is at medium heat before cooking. A well-preheated grill ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
-
Keep an Eye on Time: Cook the squid for only 2 minutes on each side. Overcooking can make the squid tough, losing its delightful texture.
-
Enhance with Citrus: Always drizzle with fresh lemon juice before serving. This lightens the dish and enhances the flavors beautifully.
Stuffed Squid Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting squid?
Absolutely! When choosing squid, look for firm, glossy skin without any dark spots. The squid should have a mild ocean scent—if it smells overly fishy, it may not be fresh. Always opt for cleaned squid tubes if you’re short on time.
How should I store leftover stuffed squid?
To store any leftover squid stuffed with feta, parsley, and chorizo, place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 3 days. If you’ve cooked too many, don’t worry; just follow my freezing instructions below!
Can I freeze stuffed squid, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap each stuffed squid tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. After that, place them in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to squeeze out the air. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the grill or in a skillet.
What’s the best way to reheat stuffed squid?
When reheating stuffed squid, I recommend using a skillet or the grill over medium heat. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, ensuring they’re warmed through without overcooking. You want that tender texture intact! Alternatively, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes if you prefer using the oven.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! Keep in mind that this dish contains seafood and may not be suitable for those with shellfish allergies. While feta cheese adds fantastic flavor, it’s made from sheep’s milk, so it’s best to avoid it if you’re lactose intolerant. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using a plant-based cheese or doubling up on the seasoning to maintain the flavor profile.
How can I tell if the squid is cooked properly?
The key to perfectly cooked squid is to avoid overcooking it. It should only take about 4 minutes total—2 minutes on each side. Look for an opaque color, and the texture should feel firm yet tender. If the squid feels rubbery, it has likely been overcooked. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Irresistible Squid Stuffed with Feta, Parsley and Chorizo Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your barbecue to medium heat.
- Combine feta, chorizo, tomato, lemon rind, breadcrumbs, parsley, and oregano in a bowl. Season with pepper to taste.
- Spoon the filling into the cleaned squid tubes and secure with toothpicks.
- Brush the outside of the stuffed squid with olive oil.
- Cook the squid on the barbecue for 2 minutes on each side.
- Drizzle with lemon juice before cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Serve hot on a platter with lemon wedges.