Mediterranean Diet Crunchy Squid Balls
Delight in the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with these irresistible Crunchy Squid Balls, a dish that combines the sea's freshest bounty with vibrant herbs and spices. Perfectly seasoned with garlic, parsley, oregano, and a touch of fragrant lemon zest, these bite-sized treats are coated in golden breadcrumbs for an addictive crunch. Grated parmesan cheese adds a savory depth, while a quick pan-fry in extra virgin olive oil gives them a crisp, caramelized shell. Ideal as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a unique main dish, they pair beautifully with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a zesty finish. Ready in just 40 minutes, this Mediterranean diet-friendly recipe is a celebration of texture, flavor, and wholesome ingredients!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 500 grams fresh squid
- 100 grams breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 50 grams parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 large egg
- 60 milliliters extra virgin olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 50 grams all-purpose flour
- 4 pieces lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Clean the squid by removing the head, tentacles, and internal organs. Rinse thoroughly under cold water and cut into small, manageable pieces.
In a food processor, pulse the squid until finely chopped, but not pureed. The texture should be similar to ground meat.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped squid, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, parsley, minced garlic, red onion, parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
Add black pepper, salt, and dried oregano to the mixture, adjusting seasoning to taste.
Form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Roll each ball lightly in flour, dusting off any excess.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the squid balls in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
Cook the squid balls for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Once cooked, transfer the squid balls to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve the crunchy squid balls warm with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty finish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1894 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 92.0 g | 118% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.0 g | 115% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1434 mg | 478% | |
| Sodium | 3979 mg | 173% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 153.7 g | 56% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.1 g | 40% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.9 g | ||
| Protein | 126.6 g | 253% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 905 mg | 70% | |
| Iron | 12.4 mg | 69% | |
| Potassium | 1797 mg | 38% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
