Squid rings and yogurt sauce

Squid Rings with Yogurt Sauce: A Quick and Delicious Snack

If you're looking for a quick, tasty, and easy-to-make snack, squid rings with yogurt sauce are the perfect choice! This recipe combines the crispy textures of fried squid with a creamy and refreshing sauce, turning a simple snack into an unforgettable culinary experience. So, get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious recipe!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the squid rings:
- 500 g squid rings (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cube of butter (about 20 g)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3-4 garlic cloves (one halved, the rest crushed)
- 1 fresh or dried chili pepper, to taste
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 100 ml white wine (optional, but recommended for added flavor)
- A handful of fresh basil, chopped
- Salt, to taste

For the yogurt sauce:
- 200 g creamy yogurt (Greek or Turkish style)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (for a touch of sweetness)
- 1-2 garlic cloves, crushed
- Salt, to taste
- White pepper, to avoid altering the appearance of the sauce

Ingredient Details

Squid rings are an excellent source of protein and are low in calories, making them a healthy choice for snacks. Garlic not only adds flavor but also nutritional benefits, having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. White wine, if used, adds complexity and depth to the dish, while the yogurt sauce creates a delicious contrast with the warm squid.

Preparing the Squid Rings

1. If using frozen squid, make sure to completely thaw and dry it with a paper towel to avoid oil splattering during cooking. It's important that the rings are as dry as possible to achieve a crispy texture.

2. In a large skillet, add the olive oil and butter. Heat over medium heat until the butter is completely melted and starts to foam.

3. Add the halved garlic and chili pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic turns golden and its aroma is released.

4. Now, add the squid rings to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to ensure even cooking. The squid will change color, becoming opaque.

5. Add the lemon juice and white wine, then season with salt to taste. Continue to cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the wine evaporates, leaving behind a rich aroma. This step will take about 2-3 minutes.

6. Finally, add the chopped fresh basil and crushed garlic. Mix well to combine the flavors, then remove the skillet from the heat.

Preparing the Yogurt Sauce

1. In a bowl, combine the creamy yogurt with lemon juice, honey, crushed garlic, salt, and white pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are homogeneous. You can adjust the amount of lemon and honey according to your preferences to achieve a perfect balance between sour and sweet.

2. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary. A well-balanced yogurt sauce will perfectly complement the flavors of the squid rings.

Serving

Arrange the squid rings on a platter and pour the yogurt sauce over them or serve it in a separate bowl, so guests can help themselves as they prefer. You can garnish with fresh basil leaves or thin slices of lemon for an attractive appearance.

Serving Suggestions

These squid rings are ideal as an appetizer for a night with friends or as a quick snack with family. They can be served alongside a fresh green salad to add extra crunch and freshness. They also pair perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a cold blonde beer, which will complement the flavors of the dish.

Tips and Variations

- If you want a spicier version, you can add more chili or even a few drops of Tabasco sauce to the yogurt sauce.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can replace part of the yogurt with sour cream or add a little mashed avocado.
- Instead of basil, experiment with other herbs like dill or cilantro to achieve different flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen squid?
Yes, frozen squid is perfect for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and dry it well before cooking.

2. Can I prepare the squid rings in advance?
I recommend cooking them just before serving to enjoy the crispy texture. If you prepare them in advance, you can reheat them in the oven to restore the crunchiness.

3. What other side dishes can I serve with the squid rings?
These squid rings pair excellently with arugula salad, French fries, or grilled vegetables. You can also try a vegetable rice side dish.

4. What is the caloric intake of this recipe?
A serving of squid rings with yogurt sauce contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil and butter used. It is a relatively healthy snack, rich in protein and essential nutrients.

In conclusion, squid rings with yogurt sauce are a delicious and refined choice for any occasion. This simple recipe will bring you joy in every bite, and the combination of flavors will delight your meal. Don't forget to play with the ingredients and add a personal touch to your recipe! Enjoy!