Cuttlefish is a versatile seafood known for its tender texture and mild flavour, making it a perfect choice for grilling.

Its natural sweetness shines when grilled, with a delicious smoky char.

Additionally, grilled cuttlefish pairs well with a variety of marinades and seasonings, offering endless possibilities for flavour combinations.

In this blog, we will explore different ways to prepare grilled cuttlefish, from classic recipes to unique international twists.

Key Ingredients for Grilled Cuttlefish

Remember to grill quickly over high heat to maintain the cuttlefish’s tender texture and avoid overcooking.

Basic Grilled Cuttlefish Recipe

Now that you know why grilled cuttlefish is such a great dish, let’s go through the simple steps for grilling it perfectly.

Here’s how you can get started:

Step 1: Prep the Cuttlefish

Start by cleaning the cuttlefish. Remove the skin and gut the cuttlefish, making sure to discard the ink sac.

You can leave the tentacles on for added flavour, but it’s important to clean them thoroughly.

Once cleaned, use paper towels to gently pat the cuttlefish dry. This step helps the marinade stick and ensures the cuttlefish grills evenly.

Step 2: Marinate for Flavour

In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

For an extra kick, you can add chili flakes or your favourite dried herbs, like oregano or thyme. Coat the cuttlefish evenly with the marinade, making sure they’re well-covered.

Let them rest for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavours. If you have more time, marinating for up to an hour will enhance the taste even further.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures the cuttlefish cooks quickly while getting a nice char without becoming overcooked.

Once the grill is ready, place the cuttlefish on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are lightly charred and tender.

Be mindful not to overcook, as cuttlefish can become rubbery if left too long on the grill.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once grilled, remove the cuttlefish from the grill and serve them with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, for added flavour.

A squeeze of lemon will bring out the natural sweetness of the cuttlefish.

Pair it with your favourite sides, such as grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad, to complete the meal.

Different Styles of Grilled Cuttlefish

Grilled cuttlefish can be prepared in many exciting ways, each bringing out unique flavours.

Here are some creative styles to try:

1. Asian-Style Grilled Cuttlefish

Key Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 3 cloves garlic (minced), Juice of 1 lime

Recipe

• In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, minced ginger, garlic, and lime juice to create the marinade.
• Coat the cuttlefish in the marinade and let it sit for about 30 minutes to soak up the flavors.
• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the cuttlefish for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until lightly charred and tender.
• Serve the grilled cuttlefish with a side of fluffy jasmine rice and sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavour.

2. Mediterranean Grilled Cuttlefish

Key Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare

• Take a bowl and combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
• Then, coat the cuttlefish with the marinade and let it rest for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavours.
• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the cuttlefish for 2-3 minutes per side, or until lightly charred and tender.
• Serve with a side of Greek salad or roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley and a wedge of lemon to enhance the flavours.

3. Grilled Cuttlefish with Spicy Chimichurri

Key Ingredients

• 1/2 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 red chili (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

How to Prepare

• In a blender, combine fresh parsley, garlic, red chili, red wine vinegar, and olive oil to make a flavourful chimichurri sauce.
• Marinate the cuttlefish in olive oil and minced garlic for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavour.
• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the cuttlefish for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until tender and slightly charred.
• Serve the grilled cuttlefish topped with the spicy chimichurri sauce, paired with roasted potatoes or grilled corn for a delicious meal.

4. Grilled Cuttlefish Skewers

Key Ingredients

• 1 bell pepper (cut into chunks)
• 1 onion (cut into chunks)
• 8-10 cherry tomatoes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (such as thyme or oregano)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare

• Thread chunks of bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers, alternating with pieces of cuttlefish.
• Brush the skewers with olive oil, lemon juice, and your choice of herbs (like thyme or oregano).
• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the skewers for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the cuttlefish is charred and tender.
• Serve the skewers as a colourful appetizer or main dish, accompanied by a dipping sauce of your choice, such as garlic butter or tzatziki.

Various Accompaniments and Sides for Grilled Cuttlefish

The right accompaniments can turn your grilled cuttlefish from a simple dish to a complete culinary experience.

1. Fresh Salads: Light and refreshing salads pair perfectly with grilled cuttlefish. Try an arugula salad with a citrus vinaigrette, a classic Greek salad, or a simple mix of fresh greens.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Grilled veggies like zucchini, asparagus, or eggplant add a smoky flavor that complements the tender cuttlefish. They’re easy to prepare and enhance the overall meal.
3. Roasted Potatoes or Rice Pilaf: For a hearty side, serve grilled cuttlefish with roasted potatoes or a flavourful rice pilaf. These sides are simple to make and provide a satisfying balance to the meal.
4. Dips and Sauces: Enhance your grilled cuttlefish with flavourful dips like garlic butter, creamy aioli, tangy tzatziki, or a fresh tomato salsa. These add extra depth and richness to the dish.

Wrapping It Up

Whether you are enjoying it with an Asian marinade or Mediterranean herbs, grilled cuttlefish is sure to impress at any occasion.

Its quick preparation and health benefits make it a go-to choice for both casual meals and special gatherings.

With a variety of creative recipes and side dish ideas, you will be able to experiment with different flavours and find the perfect combination for your next seafood feast.

Try now!