Squid Pasta with Light Garlic Sauce from Nobu features tender squid and al dente pasta tossed in a fragrant, delicate garlic-infused olive oil sauce, garnished with fresh herbs and a hint of chili flakes, delivering a harmonious blend of savory and subtle spicy flavors.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large sauté pan or skillet
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
- Microplane or garlic press
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) dried spaghetti or linguine
- 1/2 lb (225g) fresh squid (cleaned, bodies and tentacles)
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 small red chili or 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh squid should be cleaned thoroughly, removing the innards and cartilage to ensure tender texture when cooked. Using high-quality extra-virgin olive oil enhances the sauce's delicate garlic flavor, allowing it to coat the pasta evenly. Choose fresh garlic cloves and finely mince or press them to release the most aroma and flavor for the light garlic sauce. Adjust the amount of red chili flakes or fresh chili to your preferred spice level, keeping the heat subtle but noticeable. Your Squid Pasta with Light Garlic Sauce from Nobu copycat menu will capture the balance of savory seafood, fragrant garlic, and mild chili spice that defines this signature dish.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the spaghetti or linguine until al dente according to package instructions.
- Reserve 1/2 cup pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Pat squid dry and slice bodies into thin rings; leave tentacles whole or halved if large.
- Finely mince garlic and chop fresh parsley and chives.
- Zest the lemon and juice it, keeping them separate.
- Thinly slice red chili or measure out chili flakes.
- Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and red chili or chili flakes, sautéing until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute.
- Add sliced squid to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1–2 minutes until just opaque.
- Add drained pasta to the pan with squid and toss to combine.
- Drizzle lemon juice and sprinkle lemon zest over the pasta.
- Add chopped parsley and chives.
- Toss, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a light sauce.
- Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or chili as desired.
- Divide among plates, garnishing with extra herbs and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Squid Pasta with Light Garlic Sauce from Nobu copycat menu delivers tender squid and perfectly cooked pasta in a subtly garlicky olive oil base, accented by fresh herbs and a mild chili kick. If fresh squid is unavailable, you can substitute with cleaned frozen squid or even tender calamari rings, ensuring similar texture and flavor. Olive oil infused with garlic can be replaced by a garlic-infused butter for a richer taste, though it will slightly alter the lightness of the dish. When preparing pasta, reserve some cooking water to help emulsify the sauce for a silky finish. You should adjust chili quantity to your spice tolerance to maintain the delicate balance of flavors.
Tips
When cooking squid for this pasta, ensure it is patted thoroughly dry to prevent excess moisture from steaming rather than searing, preserving a tender texture. Use reserved pasta water incrementally to create a light, silky sauce that clings to the pasta without making it soggy. Avoid overcooking the squid; it should turn just opaque in 1-2 minutes to maintain its delicate chew. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less chili flakes according to your spice preference, balancing the dish's subtle spiciness perfectly.
Nutritions
Squid Pasta with Light Garlic Sauce offers a nutritious meal rich in protein from fresh squid, which supports muscle repair and immune function. The olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, while garlic contributes anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting compounds. Your pasta adds a source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, and the fresh herbs and chili flakes supply vitamins and minerals that enhance overall nutrient density. This dish balances macronutrients effectively while delivering essential micronutrients and flavor.
Storage
Store leftover Squid Pasta with Light Garlic Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or olive oil to restore the sauce's delicate consistency. Your best chance to enjoy the tender squid and herb-infused garlic sauce is by consuming it quickly, as seafood dishes tend to lose quality rapidly.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute fresh squid with cleaned octopus or cuttlefish to create a unique twist on the dish, maintaining a similar texture profile. Swap linguine or spaghetti for fettuccine or bucatini to slightly alter the mouthfeel and sauce absorption. Replace fresh chili with a dash of smoked paprika or a few drops of hot sauce for a different type of heat. Consider finishing the dish with grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese for added umami, balancing the citrus and garlic notes.
Allergies
Squid Pasta with Light Garlic Sauce contains seafood, which is a common allergen that can cause serious reactions in sensitive individuals. Garlic and chili flakes may also trigger allergies or intolerances, leading to digestive discomfort or skin irritation. You should consult your allergist before trying this dish if you have known allergies to shellfish, spices, or garlic.
Why this recipe?
Squid Pasta with Light Garlic Sauce from Nobu is celebrated for its perfect balance of tender squid paired with a subtle, aromatic garlic-infused sauce that enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them. The dish's delicate yet bold taste profile captures the essence of fine Japanese-Italian fusion cuisine, making it a standout menu item. You experience a gourmet blend of textures and freshness that is both unique and satisfying, making it worth recreating at home to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal. Mastering the copycat recipe allows you to savor Nobu's culinary artistry anytime, elevating your dining experience with authentic, flavorful ingredients.