Grilled Squid with Chilli Dressing And Radishes
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026
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This Mediterranean-style grilled squid with chilli dressing and radishes is a vibrant, diabetes-friendly dish that brings bold flavours to the table. The combination of smoky dried chillies and zesty lemon creates a sophisticated dressing that beautifully complements the charred, tender squid. Using a heavy pan to press the squid against the grill ensures a perfect sear while keeping the meat succulent and prevented from curling too tightly.
A healthy and light option for a summer lunch or a fresh evening meal, this recipe is packed with lean protein and heart-healthy olive oil. The addition of peppery radishes and fresh herbs like marjoram and parsley adds a crisp, savoury finish that balances the heat. Serve it on a large platter for a social dining experience that feels impressive yet remains simple to prepare.
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Ingredients for Grilled Squid with Chilli Dressing And Radishes
3 dried ancho chillies
2 dried chillies de árbol
1 dried pasilla chilli
1 dried ají amarillo chilli
2 large or 4 small radishes
2 garlic cloves
2 tablespoons sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
120ml olive oil
900g cleaned large squid, bodies and tentacles separated
5 garlic cloves, finely grated
120ml mayonnaise
120ml sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar
Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
Vegetable oil (for grill)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/3 cup parsley leaves with tender stems
1 tablespoon thinly sliced chives
1 tablespoon marjoram leaves
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
120ml torn pitted Castelvetrano olives
Olive oil (for drizzling)
How to make Grilled Squid with Chilli Dressing And Radishes
Back to contentsPlace ancho chillies, chillies de árbol, pasilla chilli, and ají amarillo chilli in a large heatproof measuring glass and pour boiling water over to submerge. Cover with plastic wrap and let sit until chillies are softened, 20–25 minutes. Drain.
Remove seeds from chillies; discard. Remove tops from radishes and coarsely chop. Thinly slice radishes and set aside for the salad. Combine chillies, radish tops, garlic, vinegar, lemon juice, honey, and paprika in a blender; season with salt and pepper. Blend until chillies are finely chopped. With the motor running, stream in oil; blend until dressing is emulsified and smooth.
Prepare a grill for high heat. Cover the underside of a large cast-iron skillet with 2 layers of foil and set on grate (you want it to have time to get very hot).
Working one at a time, butterfly squid bodies. Cut a slit from wide opening to pointed end of body and open up into a flat triangle. Remove the thin clear sliver of cartilage; discard. Using the back of your knife, scrape away the jellylike membrane lining the inside of the body. Rinse bodies and tentacles well; pat dry with paper towels.
Combine garlic, mayonnaise, vinegar, several pinches of salt, and a few cranks of pepper in a large plastic resealable bag. Add squid, seal bag, pressing out air, and massage to coat squid in marinade. Chill 30 minutes.
Lightly oil grate (grate must be clean, so give it a scrub with a wire brush before oiling if needed). Remove squid from bag, letting marinade drip off. Place a few pieces flat on grate and immediately set hot skillet on top (you want to work in a small enough area and with few enough pieces that the skillet covers all the squid at once). Grill until marks appear, about 45 seconds, then uncover squid and turn over (pieces will curl a bit). Set skillet back on top and grill until marks appear on second side, about another 45 seconds. Transfer squid to a medium bowl. Continue with remaining squid.
Add lemon juice to bowl with squid and season with a bit more salt; toss to coat. If bodies are very large, cut into smaller pieces; transfer to a platter. Drizzle several tablespoonfuls of dressing over (reserve the rest for serving with grilled meats or scrambled eggs).
Toss parsley, chives, marjoram, lemon juice, and reserved radishes in a medium bowl; season with salt and pepper. Scatter salad over squid; top with olives and drizzle with oil.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
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UK recipe editors
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UK recipe editors
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
28 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editorsPeer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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