Calamari alla Griglia recipe served on a plate, by Pekin the Chef
Aug 04 2026
Restaurants›Marcello's Pizzeria›Calamari Alla Griglia Recipe

Calamari Alla Griglia Recipe

Inspired by Marcello's Pizzeria
Time1h
Serves4
Rating
5.0
1 rating

grilled squid marinated in E.V.O.O., lemon and a four-nut basil pesto

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Ingredients

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For the Grilled Calamari

For the Four-Nut Basil Pesto

Method

Preparing the Grilled Calamari

  1. 1

    Marinate the Calamari

    In a large bowl, combine the cleaned squid, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat the squid evenly in the marinade.

  2. 2

    Let it Rest

    Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the calamari marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 1 hour.

  3. 3

    Preheat the Grill

    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 200-220°C or 400-450°F). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

  4. 4

    Grill the Calamari

    Remove the squid from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Grill the calamari for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque and have nice grill marks. Be careful not to overcook, as they can become rubbery.

Preparing the Four-Nut Basil Pesto

  1. 5

    Toast the Nuts

    In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts, walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Let them cool slightly.

  2. 6

    Blend the Pesto Ingredients

    In a food processor, combine the toasted nuts, fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until finely chopped.

  3. 7

    Add Olive Oil

    With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture is well combined and reaches your desired consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally.

  4. 8

    Taste and Adjust Seasoning

    Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if necessary. Set aside.

Serving the Dish

  1. 9

    Plate the Grilled Calamari

    Once grilled, remove the calamari from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Place the grilled calamari on a serving platter.

  2. 10

    Top with Pesto

    Drizzle the four-nut basil pesto generously over the grilled calamari, or serve it on the side for dipping.

  3. 11

    Garnish and Serve

    Garnish with fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your Calamari alla Griglia!

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