Quick salt & pepper squid

Discover this authentic Australian Quick salt & pepper squid recipe — a satisfying weeknight dish that's straightforward and approachable. Made with squid, oil, chinese five spice powder and 3 more fresh ingredients, this recipe guides you through 3 detailed steps to create a truly memorable meal. Ready in about 40 minutes from start to finish. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this australian classic is sure to impress.

Easy
Updated March 14, 2026

15

Prep Time (min)

30

Cook Time (min)

4

servings

280

Calories/serving

Easy

Difficulty

Quick salt & pepper squid

Ingredients

Servings:
4
  • 400 g Squid
  • 3 tablespoons Oil
  • 1 teaspoon Chinese five spice powder
  • Dash Sesame Seed Oil
  • Sprigs of fresh Coriander
  • Drizzle sweet chilli sauce

Instructions

3 steps · ~18 minutes total

  1. Step 1

    Ask the fishmonger to clean the squid; little ones often come ready-cleaned. Using kitchen scissors, cut open the body and open out. Wash well, then pat dry. If you have a large squid, cut the body into four portions, roughly square. Small squid can just be opened up.

    10 minutes
    Keep your fingers curled under (claw grip) for safety when cutting.
  2. Step 2

    Using the tip of a very sharp knife, score the top in a neat criss-cross. Brush with oil and set aside while you heat the barbecue or griddle until ready to cook.

    5 minutes
  3. Step 3

    Mix together 2 tsp sea salt, Chinese five-spice and 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Sprinkle on both sides of the squid just before cooking, according to taste. You may not need it all. Heat the griddle pan to hot and cook about 1 min each side, until it starts to curl. Remove with tongs to a serving plate and drizzle with a little sesame oil. To serve, garnish with coriander leaves and serve with small bowls of sweet chilli sauce to dip into.

    3 minutes
    Taste as you go and adjust seasoning gradually — you can always add more but can't take it away.

💡 Tips & Tricks

This Australian recipe for Quick salt & pepper squid is best served fresh. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

🔄 Variations

• Spice level: Adjust the heat to your preference — add more chili for extra kick, or reduce it for a milder version. • Vegetarian: Replace meat with mushrooms, chickpeas, or your favorite plant-based protein. • Fusion twist: Combine elements of Australian cuisine with your local favorites for a creative fusion dish.

Storage & Reheating

❄️

Refrigerator

Up to 1 day in an airtight container

🧊

Freezer

Up to 1 month — thaw overnight in fridge

🔥

Gently reheat in a pan over low heat. Avoid microwaving seafood as it can become rubbery.

What to Serve With

Complete your australian meal with these perfect pairings:

🍽️Steamed rice or crusty bread
🍽️A fresh green salad
🍽️Seasonal roasted vegetables

About This Dish

Quick salt & pepper squid is a beloved dish from Australian cuisine, originating in Australia. With a total preparation time of about 45 minutes, it makes for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Australian cuisine offers a rich tapestry of flavors and cooking traditions that reflect the culture and history of the region. This dish is a wonderful example of its distinctive culinary heritage.

This recipe is rated easy difficulty and uses 6 ingredients. It's perfect for beginners and home cooks alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

For the best results, use fresh or frozen baby squid, as they are tender and cook quickly, making them perfect for a quick dish.

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Nutrition Facts

4 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories280kcal
Total Fat13g
Sodium579mg
Total Carbohydrates31g
Dietary Fiber3g
Protein34g

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Recipe Details

CuisineAustralian
CategorySeafood
CountryAustralia