Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp and Calamari – Whole30, Paleo Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors and embodies the sun-kissed spirit of the Mediterranean, you’re going to love this Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp and Calamari – Whole30, Paleo Recipe. This recipe captures the perfect balance of smoky, garlicky, and slightly tangy notes while staying true to both Whole30 and Paleo principles. Every bite offers tender calamari and shrimp kissed by the grill, complemented by bright herbs and a subtle heat that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just treating yourself to a healthy, satisfying meal, this dish delivers on all fronts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s amazing about this Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp and Calamari – Whole30, Paleo Recipe is how simple and wholesome the ingredient list is, yet each item plays a crucial role in layering flavors and textures. From the fresh seafood to the fragrant herbs and vibrant peppers, these ingredients come together to create a truly memorable meal.

• ½ pound calamari tubes: Fresh calamari bring a tender, slightly chewy texture that grills beautifully.
• 1 pound 8/12 shrimp, deveined and shell on: Keeping the shell on helps lock in juiciness and adds smoky depth during grilling.
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided in half: Essential for marinating and sautéing, olive oil adds richness and carries flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped, divided in half: Garlic infuses the dish with a fragrant pungency that’s simply irresistible.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and beautiful color to the marinade.
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, plus extra to taste: Enhances the natural flavors of the seafood and seasoning.
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper, plus extra to taste: Provides subtle heat and depth.
• 1 shallot, finely chopped: Offers a sweet, delicate onion flavor that complements the seafood perfectly.
• ¼ cup capers plus 1 teaspoon of their brine: Brings a briny, tangy punch that brightens every bite.
• 2 tablespoons sundried tomatoes packed in olive oil, thinly sliced: Adds a chewy texture and sweet-savory notes.
• 1 red finger chile pepper, thinly sliced: Gives the dish a mild kick; you can substitute with Anaheim, serrano, or jalapeño for varying heat levels.
• 1 teaspoon fresh oregano: A fragrant herb that echoes the Mediterranean coast, substitute with ½ teaspoon dried oregano if needed.
• ¼ cup water: Helps create a light sauce; you can swap with white wine or seafood broth for more complexity.
• Juice of ½ lemon: Adds bright acidity that lifts the richness of the seafood and oil.
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped: Brings a fresh, clean finish to the dish.

How to Make Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp and Calamari – Whole30, Paleo Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by combining half of the olive oil with half of the finely chopped garlic, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This simple marinade not only infuses the seafood with robust flavors, but also helps tenderize it slightly before grilling. Toss the calamari tubes and shrimp in this mixture, coating evenly, then let them marinate at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes. This step is key to ensuring the seafood absorbs all those vibrant, smoky, and garlicky notes.

Step 2: Get the Grill Ready

While your seafood marinates, heat your grill to medium-high. If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are glowing hot but covered with a thin layer of ash. A clean, hot grill is essential for achieving those gorgeous char marks without overcooking. Make sure to oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking, which helps preserve that delicate texture of the calamari and shrimp.

Step 3: Grill the Seafood

Place the calamari tubes and shrimp on the grill, arranging them so they have enough space to cook evenly. Grill the shrimp shell side down first for about 2-3 minutes, then flip and continue grilling until they are pink and opaque—usually another 2-3 minutes. The calamari will need slightly less time, about 1-2 minutes per side, so keep a close eye to avoid toughness. Perfectly grilled seafood should have a light char but remain tender.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

While the seafood grills, heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the remaining garlic and the finely chopped shallot, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Then stir in the capers and their brine, sundried tomatoes, sliced chile pepper, and fresh oregano. Pour in the water, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper, letting everything simmer for 3-5 minutes. This sauce will deliver a perfect balance of vibrant flavors to complement your grilled seafood.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once the seafood is off the grill, toss it gently into the skillet with the sauce, coating everything evenly. The gentle heat will marry the flavors while keeping the seafood moist and tender. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for brightness, and your Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp and Calamari – Whole30, Paleo Recipe is ready to light up your plate.

How to Serve Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp and Calamari – Whole30, Paleo Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation and flavor, consider garnishing with extra fresh herbs like parsley or oregano. A few lemon wedges on the side add a fresh burst of citrus that guests can squeeze over the seafood for an added zing. For some extra color and texture, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or thinly sliced red onions on top—it’s all about layering those sensory experiences.

Side Dishes

Because the Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp and Calamari – Whole30, Paleo Recipe is so flavor-forward, pairing it with light, complementary sides is ideal. A crisp green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette, roasted seasonal vegetables, or cauliflower rice makes excellent companions. These sides keep the meal balanced while allowing your star seafood to shine.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests? Present the seafood skewered for easy sharing, or serve it atop a bed of lightly dressed mixed greens as a vibrant seafood salad. Alternatively, nestle the grilled shrimp and calamari on banana leaves or a rustic wooden platter with colorful accents like cherry tomatoes and olives for that authentic Mediterranean vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers—which might be rare!—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ideally, eat within 2 days to enjoy the best texture and flavor. Avoid keeping the seafood too long as it can become rubbery and lose its fresh taste.

Freezing

Freezing cooked shrimp and calamari isn’t generally recommended as it can alter the texture significantly once thawed. However, if necessary, freeze the seafood separately without sauce by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Defrost slowly in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. Add a splash of water or olive oil to keep moisture in. Microwaving is not ideal as it tends to toughen the seafood quickly. The key is low and slow to preserve the tenderness you love in this Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp and Calamari – Whole30, Paleo Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp and calamari for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent proper grilling. Fresh seafood delivers the best flavor, but high-quality frozen options work well too.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level is mild and customizable depending on the type and amount of chile pepper you use. Feel free to swap the red finger chile for something milder or omit it if you prefer less heat.

Can I make this recipe on a stovetop if I don’t have a grill?

Yes, you can use a grill pan or a heavy skillet to mimic grilling. Just ensure it’s very hot and get a nice sear to replicate that grilled flavor. Cooking times remain similar.

Is this recipe suitable for a Whole30 and Paleo diet?

Definitely! This Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp and Calamari – Whole30, Paleo Recipe uses only compliant ingredients like fresh seafood, olive oil, herbs, and veggies, making it perfect for these dietary lifestyles.

Can I add other seafood like scallops or mussels?

Feel free to experiment! Scallops would be a delicious addition, but cooking times will vary, so adjust accordingly. Mussels can be steamed separately and served alongside for variety.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp and Calamari – Whole30, Paleo Recipe enough—it’s a true celebration of fresh, healthy eating packed with bold flavors that won’t weigh you down. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for an easy yet impressive meal, this dish checks all the boxes. So grab your grill, gather your ingredients, and dive into this taste of the Mediterranean right at home. Your taste buds will thank you!

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